We’ve been excited about Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France ever since our visit in 2015. Located on the ultra-exclusive island of St. Barthélemy (St. Barths, for short) in the French West Indies, this chic resort, called “the Maison” by those in-the-know, has recently been renovated and expanded. As the resort’s marketing coordinator Clara Giganti says, “Our ideal of perfection is based on four founding values: craftmanship, exclusive privacy, creativity and exceptional hospitality.”
On our visit it was hard to imagine how this intimate getaway could have been made more perfect! Overlooking one of the island’s most beautiful beaches, the resort, we found, has fabulous amenities. They include an unusually attentive and gracious staff; spacious rooms (on the beach or in a quiet tropical garden); a pool by the sea; casual and fine dining; and a luxurious Guerlain spa, the only one in the Caribbean. The sense of privacy was wonderful. We never felt like we were tripping over other guests. For all these reasons, Cheval Blanc appeals both to couples on romantic getaways and vacationing families. And its sophisticated-yet-barefoot charm draws repeat visitors from around the world.
We also loved the Tuesday evening poolside fashion show that highlights stunning garments and accessories from the resort’s boutique as guests sip champagne and tropical cocktails. It’s a festive occasion. After all, who wouldn’t enjoy a parade of beautiful models wearing the latest fashions from top designers and international brands?!
It was easy to arrange island excursions with a local guide to learn more about St. Barths’ culture. And, back at Cheval Blanc, we could order a private, Caribbean barbecue dinner on the beach or a personalized wine tasting. Prepared by Cheval Blanc’s sommelier, the tasting enabled us to discover France’s finest wines from regions of our choice.
But, committed to perfection, Cheval Blanc has found ways to improve.
Recent changes include:
• A spectacular, sculptural centerpiece for the Maison, The Constellation of Pegasus, by Jean-Michel Othoniel. Made of blown-glass spheres, it mimics the stars.
• An expansion of suites and villas from 42 to 61. The increase includes the nearly 7,000-square-foot Villa de France, a five-bedroom accommodation with direct access to the beach. It comes with its own spa treatment and fitness room and two infinity-edge pools. Sound like a getaway for royalty? Perhaps. But, according to Clara, it appeals to many families and other groups who want an “authentic residential feet-in-the-sand experience.”
•Fresh, contemporary decor by renowned French designer Jacques Grange, which includes rattan furniture, warm woods and airy cotton upholstery in vibrant patterns.
• An additional swimming pool—plus a new boutique for men.
• Spa experiences for children, which Clara says have become very popular with families.
We certainly look forward to a return visit!
More Cheval Blanc news: Cheval Blanc Paris will be opening in late spring, 2020. Located along the banks of the Seine, it’s centrally located and within walking distance of both the Louvre and Notre Dame Cathedral. The new property will be the most recent addition to Cheval Blanc properties in St. Tropez (French Riviera), Courchevel (French Alps) and Randheli (the Maldive Islands).
For more information: chevalblanc.com/en/maison/st-barth-isle-de-france, 800-810-4691.
Also, check our previous magazine story and short documentary film.