The party is never far away in St Barths, the pocket-sized Caribbean island whose siren’s call lures well-heeled visitors year after year. This season welcomes a fresh-faced addition to the island’s collection of must-visit venues, courtesy of Villa Marie Saint-Barth – the Caribbean outpost of Maisons & Hôtels Sibuet, whose portfolio of French boutique hotels is perennially popular among the jet-set.
Tucked away at the far end of Pelican beach in Baie de St Jean, Gyp Sea Beach Club is a barefoot boho hideaway where days can be spent idling on denim day beds beneath blue and white umbrellas, practising early morning yoga, snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters around the island or indulging in a beachfront massage set to the soundtrack of gently lapping waves.
The beach gives way to a castaway style bar and restaurant, with driftwood furniture and giant cushions covered in ocean-hued fabrics, for laid-back beachfront dining from the wood-fired grill. From freshly caught fish and rock lobsters to smoked rib of beef and tropical desserts, almost everything on the menu is roasted, smoked, grilled or braised for a rustic barbecue experience. DJ-spun tunes will drift across the air from The Rum Bar throughout the day, accompanied by island-style concoctions courtesy of the resident mixologists, fresh juices and smoothies or perhaps a selection from the cigar cellar.
A covetable collection of creations from international designers are available from the Gyp Sea boutique, including clothing for men, women and children and a stylish collection of swimwear, jewellery and sunglasses – the perfect addition to your Caribbean escape. At the end of the day, guests can return to the exquisite comforts of Villa Marie, a 21-bungalow and four-villa hideaway set in gardens peppered with banana palms and mango trees, with spectacular views over St Barths and nearby Flamands Beach.