VILLA MARIE ST BARTHS LAUNCHES NEW BEACH CLUB GYP SEA BEACH NOW OPEN
MAISONS & HOTELS SIBUET’S ICONIC ISLAND HIDEAWAY REOPENS WITH ALL NEW BOHEMIAN BEACH HANG OUT
Whilst many islands have lost their allure, St Barths remains one of the world’s most sought-after holiday destinations. Covering just eight square miles, its year-round sunshine, unspoilt beaches and authentic French charm beckon us to escape winter, for the promise of some much-needed vitamin D. This December, just in time for a much-needed escape, Villa Marie St Barths has launched the all new Gyp Sea Beach Club – the ultimate hotspot to dine, drink and soak up the sun. Through vision of the Sibuet family, in partnership with Pascal Ramette – restauranteur behind fashionable and jet-setting establishments in New York, St Barts and St Tropez, Gyp Sea cements the hotel as one of the must visit destinations on this paradise island.
THE BEACH
Located on the iconic Bay of St Jean, on an undisturbed stretch of pristine shore at the far end of Pelican beach, lush vegetation frames white sands and turquoise waters, with denim day beds studded with blue and white umbrellas, just steps from the shoreline. From paddling and snorkelling, to morning yoga classes for early risers, there is plenty to do for guests of all ages. Those seeking the ultimate 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 – a nod to owner Jocelyn Sibuet’s Megève roots – it 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 DESIGN
The design concept is Bohemian, barefoot luxury with a laid-back Caribbean touch, 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 that surround the island. Indigo tie dye blends with raw denim, while vibrant ultramarine coral-patterned fabrics and faded blue cashmere accent the white-sand, green palm backdrop. Giant mismatched cushions sit on comfy benches and driftwood furniture, shaded by parasols, for an effortless, laid-back feel – drawing a stylish crowd to this relaxed setting.
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 rib of beef, charred vegetables with za’atar spices, aioli and lemon confit. To finish on a sweet note, tropical desserts range from rum-roasted pineapple, caramelised bananas, charred local fruit or XXL cookies baked in the ambers.
THE BAR
The Rum Bar is the cool new cocktail hang out for sophisticated sundowners, golden-hour glamour and a relaxed party atmosphere. The resident mixologist shakes up an inventive mix of drinks using the most exclusive rums on the island, to the soundtrack of the DJ spinning upbeat funk and Caribbean beats. The bar even boasts its very own cigar cellar – with an extensive selection of fine cigars. Those preferring to keep things healthy can sip on a range of healthy fresh-pressed juices and colourful smoothies, whilst they drink in the view.
THE BOUTIQUE
It’s impossible to not be tempted by the Gyp Sea boutique and its curated collection of international “Gypset” brands, for men, women, children as well as accessories and sunglasses. Handpicked from 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… along with a ‘made in France’ swimwear collection by Tatiane de Freitas – a Brazilian designer based in Lyon and Calarena, whose creations are inspired by her native island of Corsica. Cool vintage t-shirts by Paris-based Newtone Brand are perfect for those seeking a touch of rock n’ roll and can be paired with statement jewelry by Parisian designer Pascale Monvoisin or handmade bracelets by Venessa Arizaga, from Puerto Rico.
THE HOTEL
Just a short drive away, Villa Marie’s location boasts an incredible vantage point with sweeping views over the island and Flamands beach. It is situated close to 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 a signature Pure Altitude Spa. It exudes laidback luxury in its tropical-influenced design by owner Jocelyne Sibuet, effortlessly combining elements of Caribbean Indian flair.
The hotel also has a wine cellar, boutique, Rum Bar and fumoir with an extensive selection of fine cigars. The swimming pool is set in a lush tropical garden full of fragrant flowers, banana and mango trees.
Open for breakfast and lunch and for private dinners, on request
Rates start from £400 per night for a classic bungalow based on two sharing on a B&B basis and from £900 per night for a villa including airport transfers.
Access:
International Flights to St Maarten or Antigua. Then take a shuttle plane across (10mins) with WINAIR or the St Barth Commuter or by boat transfer (45mins) from St Maarten to St Barths
Villa Marie is 10 minutes from the airport
Travel Restrictions:
All travellers over the age of 11 must undertake a test for COVID-19 within 72 hours before departure for St Barths and show proof of a negative result. Travellers are not required to self-isolate upon returning to the UK.