Founded in 1969, Papillote Wilderness Retreat is Dominica's original, and still leading, eco-inn, perched at the head of a sun-filled valley on a verdant mountain slope in the heart of Dominica's rainforest wilderness, and situated about 5 miles above Roseau, Dominica's capitol city, at the top of the Roseau River Valley.

The restaurant and inn are set amidst a lush botanical garden with gently flowing streams and hot mineral pools.

The tropical gardens of Papillote stretch dramatically across a four acre tract of land on the steep rainforested slope of Morne Macaque.

Flowering jade vines in an unbelievable shade of blue, huge pink ginger blossoms, aroids, heliconias, begonias, bromeliads, ferns, orchids and aroids form sumptuous compositions to tempt artists, photographers, gardeners and botanists.

Geckos, frogs and other creatures live contentedly with 30 kinds of birds and 19 species of butterfly amongst hot and cold waterfalls and soothing mineral pools.

Wherever you go, you are never far away from the sound of water. Two separate streams splash their way down through the gardens. One is hot, welling up from a natural spring at the top of a waterfall, while the other is cold. Both streams are an integral part of the garden design.

Natural hot springs course through a series of sumptuous bathing pools -- a perfect place to relax, read a book or plan the next day's adventures. The hot pools of Papillote were created by hand, but they are fed by a constant stream of volcanic mineral water that flows from natural springs near the top of our mountain. Grand stone statues of iguanas and fish covered in a patchwork quilt of moss and lichens stand guard over each of our three pools. The largest pool can comfortably accommodate six to eight adults, while the smallest is just right for two. The third, between the others in size, is hidden like a cave beneath our veranda. All three hot pools provide our guests with a truly unique, relaxing and healthful experience.

Swim against the majestic backdrop of the famed Trafalgar Falls, a 15-minute walk through the rainforest from Papillote. Hike to Middleham Falls or the legendary Boiling Lake.

Relax in our Rainforest Restaurant, a spacious roofed terrace with a sweeping view down the beautiful Roseau River valley. Rainbows arc across mountain ridges near the terrace. Dine on fresh-caught fish, prawns or chicken prepared Creole-style with all the fabled spices of Dominica's rich cultural heritage, and sample exotic fruits and vegetables from the endless bounty of Dominica's organic gardens. Drink fresh fruit juices, island-brewed Kubuli beer, or special "Papillote" rum punch.

The comfortable, charming rooms overlook the spectacular Papillote Gardens, featuring a world-class collection of rare orchids, brilliant bromeliads and effusive aroids that forms a lush backdrop of greenery and colorful blooms with views of mountains and waterfalls. The bathrooms have showers with constant flowing hot water, fed by the hot mountain spring. Fans are placed in rooms, but as the doors are shuttered, night breezes keep the rooms fresh and cool. For families or small groups the two Rainforest Suites, with adjacent bedrooms (sleeping up to 4 people) and large verandahs, are ideal.

Papillote is a must for hikers, gardeners, botanists, photographers, artists, romantics and families wanting to get a away from it all. Don't miss whale-watching, snorkeling, a visit to the Carib Indian Territory. a gondola ride through the forest canopy, or exploring Roseau. Tours, guide service or car rental can be arranged at the hotel desk.