France in the Caribbean. This phrase captures the essence and appeal of St. Barthélemy (commonly called St. Barths). All those things Americans love about France—exclusive accommodations, exceptional hospitality and cuisine, exciting nightlife and  joie de vivre—come together on this one small island.

Located in the French West Indies, St. Barths is just 2 1/2 hours from Miami by plane. During the winter season, it’s a magnet for some of the world’s most affluent, discriminating travelers who come to soak up the sun—either on beaches or aboard private yachts that fan out from the small harbor of Gustavia, the capital. But the good times don’t end in April. Late spring and early summer can be just as nice and less busy.

We had the pleasure of staying at the luxurious Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France, an exclusive hotel located along Flamands Beach on the northwest corner of the island. Recently acquired and renovated by the luxury conglomerate Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy (LVMH), it’s one of three Cheval Blanc properties (the other two are in Courcheval, France, and the Maldive Islands). The hotel appeals to all ages, including honeymooners, couples seeking a place to chill out and families with young children.

The renovated hotel reflects LVMH’s commitment to offer the best in comfort, privacy and hospitality in a way that combines elegance with simplicity. Guests can choose from among 40 spacious rooms, suites and villas with ocean or tropical garden views. They are supplied with every amenity one could imagine. French chef Yann Vinsot offers cuisine that’s both creative and healthy. Best of all, the hotel’s young and energetic French staff are exceptionally gracous.

If you’re lucky enough to stay here, don’t miss a signature treatment at the spa—the only Guerlain spa in the Caribbean—and the weekly Tuesday evening fashion show! Stay tuned for our upcoming magazine feature and film.

For more information:  800-810-4691, info.stbarth@chevalblanc.com, chevalblanc.com/en/maison/st-barth-isle-de-france.

The entranceway to the Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France, located on Flamands Beach, leads to the beach and a dining area with views of the Atlantic Ocean. 

A poolside fashion show and cocktail reception occur every Tuesday night at Cheval Blanc.

The hotel has the only Guerlain Spa in the Caribbean. In addition to indoor treatment rooms, a spa pavilion, located in Cheval Blanc’s tropical garden, provides a restful place for a signature treatment.

Shell Beach, located within walking distance of the boutiques of Gustavia, provides an inviting place for sun worshippers to stretch out on the sand and frolic in the surf.

Read our update to learn about new developments at Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France!