Christopher St Barth

A glass of Champagne welcomes visitors to Christopher St. Barth’s. It's a fitting gesture, as guests certainly have reason to celebrate upon arrival: lush tropical grounds surround a stunningly huge pool, where chic guests can be found lounging in comfy lounge chairs with tropical cocktails from Mango, the hotel’s casual poolside bar. Nestled between waves crashing on an un-swimmable rocky shoreline and a hillside, the Christopher feels impeccably relaxed and perfectly chic at the same time. Natural stone walls run throughout the property, while interiors are characterized by white-washed wooden ceilings, white floors, and dark hardwood accents. Bright pops of color come from contemporary art on the walls, and the atmosphere is both artsy and exclusive. There are two laid-back, but swish, places to dine on site, including the aforementioned poolside bar and terrace plus the slightly more formal Christo. It’s not uncommon to overhear a multitude of languages at the hotel, as it attracts a mostly European professional crowd, many of whom are couples on holiday.

Christopher St. Barth's is located on Point Milou, a northeastern outcropping on the island that grants some beautiful vistas of the rest of St Barth's. It's not necessarily in the heart of the action as far as dining and nightlife goes, but the island is small enough that everything is within a 20 minute drive or less. guests will want a car to tour the island's sights, as there isn't anything within walking distance. The closest beach -- Plage de Lorient -- is about six minutes away by car, while Nikki Beach is an eight-minute drive from the hotel. The restaurants and shops in downtown Gustavia are about 15 minutes away by car. The ferry to get to Anguilla and other islands is about 10 minutes away by car, as is the island's airport.

Rooms here are modern, with sleek gray lines, glazed concrete floors, and white and black tones throughout. The blocky, somewhat spartan design is uber-chic, blending French contemporary elements with urban styling, though it could easily feel a bit impersonal, especially for a tropical island. However, the designers have taken great pains to make sure that that's not the case, and white-washed exposed-wood ceilings, knotty gray carpets, large framed photographs, and orange accents throughout help to brighten and add a healthy dose of comfort to the spaces. Several room categories are available. All are large (starting at 280 square feet, or 26 square meters) and have terraces, many of which have ocean views. The mini-fridge is stocked with a free selection of drinks and macarons -- no food is allowed in these fridges, though, so be prepared to stash leftovers somewhere else. Nespresso coffeemakers, BOSE and SONY sound docks are also included in the room amenities, as well as flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, flip-flops, and robes. Bathrooms are equally stylish, with gray mosaic-stone walls, granite soaking tubs and separate rainfall showers in some rooms (others only have showers), contemporary vanities and fixtures, and high-end L'Occitane toiletries.

The hotel boasts the largest pool in St Barth's, curving in an elegant shape around the hotel’s on-site restaurant and bar, while providing plenty of deck space overlooking the rocky shores of Point Milou. There are interesting design elements to the pool as well. Half is shallow enough that it gives the effect of wading in the ocean, while an island separates the deeper part of the pool. It's surrounded by plenty of lounge chairs.

While there’s no beach (the shore is made of rocks), the hotel creates a faux-beach atmosphere at Mango, the sandy poolside bar that’s open for lunch. The shaded patio offers tropical cocktails, salads, and sandwiches -- it's pricey, but delicious and comes with a great ocean view. Breakfast is included in the room rate and features juice, bread, pastries, meats, and cheeses as well as an a la carte menu.

The hotel has a small fitness center that overlooks the ocean down below. It features up-to-date machines, yoga mats, and water. The spa is next door and uses Sisley products, with a series of varying massage and spa treatments. There is also small shop selling clothing, shoes, and bags.

Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel and free airport transfers are also offered. Valet parking is also free, and babysitting services are offered, though there is a fee for this service. The hotel has a dedicated concierge as well for any help with tour, restaurant, or activity bookings.