Saint-Barthélemy is neither a simple Caribbean island nor a fashionable resort in the manner of Mykonos or Ibiza. It holds a rare balance between preserved nature and discreet refinement, which has made it, for decades, the destination of choice for a loyal clientele who return year after year.
Gustavia and its free port, a legacy of the Swedish era, hills dropping into turquoise water, coves reached by winding roads. The island lives by its seasons, and each has its own light.
When to come
High season runs from mid-December to April, peaking between Christmas and New Year, when Gustavia harbour welcomes yachts from all over the world. It is the island’s emblematic experience and the most sought after, so villas are booked well ahead.
Those who know the island well favour May, June and late November. Perfect light, fewer people, gentler prices, and the same ease at the table as on the beach. From late summer to mid-autumn, at the heart of the hurricane season, many restaurants and hotels close their doors.
The beaches and their hours
Each beach of Saint-Barth has its own character. Saline, wild and unbuilt, is earned by a short path across the dune. Gouverneur, below the heights of Lurin, is kept for the end of the day. Flamands unrolls its pale sand, made for long swims. Colombier can only be reached on foot, by the trail, or from the sea. Shell Beach, a few steps from Gustavia, belongs to the hour of the aperitif.
For a day at Colombier or Saline, our concierge has a picnic lunch prepared that very morning.
The tables
Gustavia gathers many of the island’s finest tables, from the harbour front to the heights. Bonito and L’Isola have their regulars, Maya’s has watched over the cove of Public for decades, and Le Tamarin welcomes guests in the shade of its garden, on the road to Saline. Your Travel Advisor books for you, and tells you which houses are open in the season.
« Saint-Barth is not discovered in a single season. You return, and find the same addresses, with a new dish, a new sky, a new complicity. »
What our concierge arranges on the island
- Your bookings at the island’s tables, to your taste and the season
- A day at sea aboard a private yacht, with crew
- Treatments at the villa, or in the spas of the grand hotels, subject to availability
- A private chef at the villa, chosen to your taste
- An introduction to an event coordinator, for a celebration on the island
Liberty House selects its Saint-Barth villas with particular care, sea views, proximity to the finest beaches, fully personalised services. Ask your Travel Advisor for a confidential presentation.
