St Barts: The Perfect Island Getaway
Winter Destination: St Barts!
Photo: Le Barthlemey
I just returned from the beautiful French island of St Barts, the perfect winter getaway! From the stunningly blue water to the warm sunny weather, this luxurious Caribbean destination should be at the top of your list.
Photo: Le Barthelemy
St Barts is ideal for those who want true relaxation – beach clubs, great restaurants, and to-die-for views. And when it’s time for more active options, there are a whole host of water sports, excellent boating excursions, and unique shopping opportunities awaiting you.
Getting There:
Three ways to get to St Barts:
o Tradewind Air from San Juan to St Barth's (one-hour flight) – the best option
o Winn Air from St Martin to St Bart's (ten-minute flight) - St Martin can be difficult to get to
o Ferry from St Martin (45-minute ferry ride) – choose only if you are deathly afraid of small planes, like panic-attack afraid!
A VIP arrival in San Juan means that everything is taken care of for you - a Tradewind representative meets you at the gate, escorts you to their lounge to relax, checks bag for you, and prints your boarding pass.
Where to Stay:
Photo: Le Barthelemy
If you're looking for laidback luxury, Le Barthelemy Hotel and Spa is for you. Le Barth was named the #1 Resort in St Barts, #1 Best Resort in the Caribbean, and in the Best Resorts in the World by Condé Nast Reader's Choice Awards 2022!! You will feel very taken care of from the moment you arrive. The staff greats you warmly with a glass of champagne, and their thoughtfulness and attention to detail are evident throughout your stay. Le Barths is perfect for couples, friend getaways, and families with small children. On-property experiences include a Mixology Masterclass, wine tastings, sunset sail, spa treatments at Le Spa, and swimming and snorkeling in the turquoise blue bay. All bookings include complimentary private airport transfers. The resort is committed to sustainability by supporting local farms in their bars and restaurants, implementing no-waste cooking, using solar panels, and being instrumental in protecting the sea turtle population.
Photo: Le Barthelemy
The décor has an understated island feel with high ceilings over the bed and shuttered window coverings in a neutral sand palette with touches of sea blue. The bathroom was beautiful, with lots of storage, and the closet space with impressive. All rooms have a balcony. I stayed in the Ocean Luxe room, which was spectacular, with the most amazing views. Don’t forget to use the “Champagne Please” call button on your phone, and you’ll be toasting within ten minutes!
Photo: Le Barths
There are two fabulous six-bedroom villas on the property that accommodate up to ten guests and are stunning with their expansive ocean views, private pool, and outdoor shower.
Island Activities
Photo: Gypsea Beach Club
During your visit, include a shopping tour in Gustavia, dinner at Bagatelle in Gustavia (the food was delicious, and at around 10 pm, the restaurant turns into a "dancing on the tables" party! Everyone wears white!), a tour of the island in Mini Mokes, spend an afternoon at the Gypsea Beach Club in Saint Jean if you are looking for a more laid-back afternoon, or Nikki Beach Club if you're into the "see-and-be-seen" partying option!
The towns of Gustavia and Saint Jean are about a 15-minute drive from the resort. You can opt for a private driver, rent a Mini Cooper or a Mini Moke (like an open-aired Jeep), or use a taxi service.
Photo: Nikki Beach Club
There are countless villas on the island that we can properly match for you! Other fabulous stays with our partners include Eden Roc, Hotel Le Toiny, Le Sereno, Rosewood Le Guanahani, Cheval Blanc St Barth, and Villa Marie.
When it’s cold and snowy, you’ll be happy you booked your winter getaway to St Barts!
