The luxurious Eden Rock hotel stands over the beautiful Caribbean island of Saint-Barthélemy— also called St. Barths. Many discerning travelers think of it as one of the world’s finest. That is quite a compliment, considering the number of five-star hotels that dot this tiny island with an area of only 9 square miles. We decided to visit and review the reasons for such a claim. See here more travel options.
Indeed, St. Barths is home to many luxury outposts, including the minimalist Isle de France, a favorite retreat of the rich and famous; Le Toiny, with only 15 villas; and Le Sereno, a design hotel. There are also the small Carl Gustaf and the colorful Guanahani, as well as the Taïwana boutique hotel, among others. They all show a stupendous hospitality and have a distinguished clientele but the Eden Rock stands above the rest for its excellent location, exclusive amenities and impeccable service.
Opened in the 1950s, the Eden Rock was the first hotel in St. Barths and belongs to the select network Relais & Châteaux. What sets it apart is, first and foremost, its location. While others have a stretch of “reserved” beach, the Eden Rock sits on a rocky promontory that divides the Bay of St. Jean on the foundations of the former property of the aviator and adventurer Remy de Haene. It was acquired in 1995 by an English couple, David and Jane Matthews.
This Caribbean paradise, surrounded by lush vegetation and multiple step terraces, has 34 spacious rooms, villas and newly refurbished suites – with spectacular views to the sea and coral reefs. The rooms offer maximum comfort and spoil their guests with Bulgari products, fluffy towels and deep soaking tubs. Its two Super Deluxe villas —with two and three bedrooms— have private pools, butler service, private cinema and spa. The so-called Villa Rockstar is further equipped with a recording studio which was used by John Lennon. The hotel also features an art gallery and a private yacht for the exclusive enjoyment of its guests.
However, the truly emblematic feature of the Eden Rock Hotel is the impeccable service it provides, which starts from greeting its guests at the airport to a champagne welcome and room cleaning three times a day. Thanks to the creativity of internationally acclaimed chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, the hotel also features excellent cuisine, served in its two restaurants. The breakfast buffet is delicious and included in the price, which ranges from $600 to $25,000 per night. ■
