While Saint Barthélemy was one of the first Caribbean islands to reopen back in June, some of the island’s most popular and iconic hotels took extra time to bolster their health and safety guidelines and protocols. That included the brand-new Hotel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf, which was supposed to make its highly anticipated debut earlier this year but instead had to wait until October 15 to finally open its doors to travelers from all over the world.
The Barrière Group’s first Caribbean offering, Hotel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf was designed with privacy and intimacy in mind, well before those factors became universal prerequisites for travel. With an amazing view of the nearby harbor, as well as Gustavia’s charming red roofs and green hills, this property is located close enough to the action so that guests can enjoy the capital city’s shopping and dining, yet it still feels isolated enough for anyone who simply wants a tranquil tropical escape.
In addition to 21 rooms, including 13 cottages and two junior suites, Le Carl Gustaf boasts two “Exceptional” suites that offer elevated views of the hotel’s surroundings and a truly “royal” experience. Hence the name Loft Royal Terrace Sea, which sleeps as many as six people in large rooms with private terraces, one of which features a private jacuzzi. A larger group will especially be drawn to Villa Diane and its panoramic view of Gustavia and her bay. Two large private terraces and five bedrooms allow this villa to redefine physical distancing.
Guests who can muster the desire to pull themselves away from every room’s terrace and private plunge pool will find world class dining Michelin-starred Chef Pierre Gagnaire’s Le Fouquet’s, which serves a fusion of French and Caribbean cuisines. Shellona also dishes out island fare down on the world-famous Shell Beach. Anyone with a keen interest in how the food is prepared can even take a trip to the local fish market with the chef to witness how provisions are selected.
In addition to being advantageous for distancing and privacy, Le Carl Gustaf also makes for an unparalleled wellness experience. The Diane Barrière Spa offers a variety of massage and body treatments for travelers seeking the ultimate spoils, and the hotel also offers private yoga and pilates sessions in addition to traditional outdoor activities, water sports and off-site excursions.
Truly, good things come to those who wait.
