As a first foray out of mainland France for accomplished family hoteliers, Maison & Hotels Sibuet, Villa Marie in St. Barths is a tour de force. Sitting in the hills above Flamands Bay it is as if a small, but perfectly designed part of St. Tropez has been transported to the Caribbean. The boutique hotel, formerly Hotel François Plantation, honours the West Indies architectural style, which blends the transition of indoor and outdoor spaces, and the colonial plantation character. Bright Caribbean colours enchant the eye, and a soupçon of French elegance completes the picture. Idyllic. There are 19 charming verandaed bungalows. Some have a view of the exotic, lush tropical gardens, and there are three options for ocean views, including a Family Bungalow. A villa with two en suite bedrooms is ideal for friends to share. Whitewashed walls, colonial woodwork, rattan furniture and vintage pieces throughout combine for a boho chic vibe. Fine dining thrives at Francois Plantation Restaurant whilst the hotel’s cosy bar offers an extensive selection of the region’s rums and, fittingly, a humidor filled with Cuban cigars. Hôtel Villa Marie Saint-Barth Colombier Gustavia, St. Barths 77
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