Boutique hotels in Jacmel

Jacmel, on the south coast, is the most photogenic town in Haiti, with 19th-century coffee-merchant mansions with iron balconies and a lively craft community that makes papier-mâché masks, mosaics and paintings. Its carnival, held before Lent, is one of the country's most inventive. The beaches of Cayes-Jacmel and the blue pool of Bassin Bleu lie nearby.

Where to stay

The best stays are in the historic center. One is a 19th-century mansion with antique furniture and local artwork, a courtyard bar and no pool or spa. Another has 30 rooms around a courtyard in a restored gingerbread house with a newer wing and the largest pool in the center. On the bay, a hotel has views over the water, and a hillside lodge serves meals from local farms. An eco-minded B&B with three ocean-view suites is in nearby Cayes-Jacmel.

Good to know

The road from Port-au-Prince has been difficult in recent years, so check official travel advice and your options for getting there. Confirm that a hotel is open before you plan.