Situated in the north of the Caribbean, the island of Saint Barthélemy (St. Barts) was formed from a volcanic eruption and is one of four territories among the Leeward Islands that comprise the French West Indies.
The Island exudes luxury and is known for its beautiful white sand beaches, shallow reefs, sheltered coves, windswept granite cliffs and lush green vegetation.
Its capital, Gustavia, is widely considered one of the most charming towns in all of the Caribbean, where a laidback French-Caribbean lifestyle is complemented by colonial architecture, waterfront cafés, designer boutiques and fine dining.
The town is also rich in maritime history, evident through its mid-to-late 17th-century forts overlooking the town’s quaint red-roofed harbourfront. Home to one of the most beautiful natural harbours in the world, today’s Gustavia is a hive of yachting activity.
Where to stay:
Nestled on the quiet side of St Barts, amongst 42 acres of tropical bliss, Hôtel Le Toiny offers visitors a French-inspired chic coastal retreat.
The property’s 22 villas boast a palette of neutral tones, bleached wood floors, handmade furnishings and exquisite furniture. Its location on the undeveloped southeast part of the Island provides incredible undisturbed views of the coastline, perfect for private spa treatments, yoga sessions, or simply relaxing with a glass of champagne. It has two restaurants, The Beach Club and Le Toiny Restaurant, which offer some of the best culinary experiences on the Island.
Getting there:
Gustaf III Airport (SBH/TFFJ) is the only airport in Saint Barthélemy, but with its very short runway, only small aircraft are able to land there.
Princess Juliana International Airport in St Maarten (SXM/TNCM) is, therefore, the nearest airport that is accessible by private jet. From here, you can take a ten-minute scheduled flight or charter a private air taxi to take you to the Island.
Approximate flight times:
| Dubai ✈ Saint Barthélemy (St Maarten) | 16 hours 30 minutes |
| London ✈ Saint Barthélemy (St Maarten) | 8 hours 30 minutes |
| New York ✈ Saint Barthélemy (St Maarten) | 3 hours 45 minutes |
| Paris ✈ Saint Barthélemy (St Maarten) | 8 hours 30 minutes |
| Singapore ✈ Saint Barthélemy (St Maarten) | 22 hours 0 minutes |
| Zurich ✈ Saint Barthélemy (St Maarten) | 9 hours 15 minutes |
