Villa Marie has opened a chic beach club just in time for your winter escape
While many islands have lost their allure, Saint Barthélemy (lovingly known as St. Barths) remains one of the world’s most sought-after destinations for 2021. Covering just eight square miles, its year-round sunshine, unspoiled beaches and French charm beckon visitors to escape winter for the promise of some much-needed vitamin D.
In December, Villa Marie St Barths launched the Gyp Sea Beach Club – a hotspot for dining, drinking and soaking up the sun. The vision of the Sibuet family, in partnership with Pascal Ramette – the restaurateur behind fashionable establishments in New York, St. Barths and St. Tropez — is to make Gyp Sea and the hotel one of the must-visit destinations on the island.
THE BEACH
Located on the Bay of St. Jean on an undisturbed stretch of shore at the far end of Pelican beach, the hotel is framed with lush vegetation, white sands and turquoise waters. Denim day beds studded with blue and white umbrellas are just steps from the shoreline. From paddling and snorkeling to morning yoga classes for early risers, there is plenty to do for guests of all ages.
Those seeking beachside relaxation can indulge in the hotel’s signature massage, the Pure Coconut Ritual, from the comfort of their sun lounger. Performed using “elixir d’edelweiss,” a Tahitian Monoi oil, organic coconut oil and Alpine edelweiss, the ritual includes a vigorous, all-natural scrub, soothing wrap and relaxing massage to repair sunburnt skin. All that’s left to do is drift off into a blissful sleep, lulled by the hypnotic rhythm of the ocean waves.
THE HOTEL
Just a short drive away, Villa Marie has sweeping views over the island and Flamands beach. It is situated close to the famous Colombier beach, a secluded stretch of golden sand that’s only accessible by foot or boat. It has 21 bungalows, four exclusive villas with private pools, a rum bar and its signature Pure Altitude spa.
THE DESIGN
The design concept is “barefoot luxury,” in keeping with the tropical surroundings. The restaurant, set right on the beach, is adorned with breezy shades of blue, reflecting the azure waters of the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean. Indigo tie-dye blends with raw denim, while vibrant ultramarine coral-patterned fabrics and faded blue cashmere accent the white sand and green palm backdrop. Giant, mismatched cushions sit on comfy benches and driftwood furniture, shaded by parasols, for an effortless, laid-back feel.
THE RESTAURANT
Barbecue lovers will delight in the al-fresco menu. From starter to dessert, almost every dish is roasted, smoked, grilled or braised on the wood-fired grill, using locally-sourced and seasonal produce to create simple, rustic dishes. Guests can take their pick from grilled avocado salad, Jamaican-style jerk chicken, freshly-caught fish and rock lobsters. Hot from the grill — and not to be missed — is the smoked beef rib, charred vegetables with za’atar spices, aioli and lemon confit. To finish on a sweet note, tropical desserts range from rum-roasted pineapple, caramelized bananas, charred local fruit or XXL cookies baked in the ambers.
THE BAR
The Rum Bar is the cocktail hang out for sophisticated sundowners, golden-hour glamour and a relaxed party atmosphere. The resident mixologist shakes up an inventive mix of drinks to the soundtrack of the DJ spinning upbeat funk and Caribbean beats. The bar even boasts its very own cigar cellar.
THE BOUTIQUE
The Gyp Sea boutique has a curated collection of apparel for men, women and children, as well as accessories and sunglasses. Handpicked from some of the most beautiful destinations in the world, highlights include Kilomètres Paris shirt-dresses embroidered in Mexico, Hand So On Indian saris, Lem Lem beach dresses handwoven in Ethiopia, tie-dye creations by Dannijo, Favela Market basket bags and a swimwear collection by Tatiane de Freitas.
