Amaryllis, the Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France’s mermaid
We’re on a bit of a kick at kodomo.com these days about places far and wide that offer little ones the opportunity to explore the underwater world and, as such, the stunning Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France has peaked our interest once again. We wrote about it last year for it’s sensational family-friendly facilities amidst some serious Caribbean luxury, but there is even more reason than ever to adore it: there is now a resident mermaid called Amaryllis who will delight young guests.
Located on Baie des Flamands – one of the island’s finest beaches – Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France is relatively quaint with its 40 suites, bungalows and villas, but this is precisely what appeals. And, being located in the Caribbean as it is, it’ll come as no surprise to you that there is some stunning, unadulterated, aqua-blue water to explore within minutes. Little swimmers armed with flippers, a mask and a snorkel (as well as lots of fully-qualified adult supervision, of course), can now head off the island to hunt for star fish, tickle local turtles and come face-to-face with friendly clown fish. It’s the perfect way to introduce them to the wonders of the ocean in an environment that couldn’t be more child-friendly or beautiful if it tried. And after some delightful play time in the water, they’ll delight at the appearance of the resident “mermaid” Amaryllis who chats with the children about her marine home.
The Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France facilities for parents
The Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France not too big and full of people – it is tranquil, calm and very luxurious. What was Hotel Saint-Barth Isle de France, the stunning St. Barth’s property has been acquired by LVMH (which testifies to the level of excellence you can expect on arrival). After much redesign, the hotel recently reopened as Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France (consider yourself informed) and it’s sumptuous, family-friendly, and full of wonderment for both parents and kids.
Now, if you have small children or you’re expecting and want somewhere lovely for the upcoming holidays, the summer is a better time to head to the island, because the temperatures aren’t quite so searing. The two-bedroom Fisherman’s Cottage is set in the beautiful tropical gardens of the hotel, making it an ideal island hideaway for families. With one king-size and two twin beds, there is room for everyone; doors open onto the living and kitchen areas, and there is a sheltered interior courtyard and outdoor garden where children can safely play.
Like any thoughtful, family-friendly hotel, the Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France offers a baby-sitting service so you can enjoy the evening beach club vibe of La Case de l’Isle, highly regarded for its elegant, light and colourful French cuisine (it has long been one of St Barth’s hottest dining destinations). And the spa? Well, it’s the only place to find Guerlain treatments in all of the Caribbean.
The four-treatment room Cheval Blanc Spa offers signature treatments by the iconic Guerlain brand – the first of their kind in the Caribbean – and created exclusively for this hotel. Signature therapies include St-Barth Solar Escape, a ritual that subtly combines the Terracotta range with Guerlain specialists’ know-how, offering a soothing escape for travel-weary skin. (A new Orchidée double treatment room and other novelties will follow when the hotel continues its extension throughout the 2015 – 2016 season).
If you don’t want to be inside the spa by day you can also enjoy treatments from leading skin-care brands, Natura Bissé and Intraceuticals, in the serene garden setting of the main house.
And for kids?
Aside from the arrival of Amaryllis and the wonderful underwater program now available to children, the hotel’s immaculate seafront swimming pool will no doubt prove a pull. If your little ones are active they will adore the mix of kayaking, paddle boarding, windsurfing and catamaran excursions on offer. There is also horseback riding above the white sands of Gouverneur Beach for budding equestrians.
And for families?
If talk of the sea leaves you hankering for a family-day on the water, top of the hotel’s well-curated services has to be “Big Blue Escape.” Escorted by a Majordome, Cheval Blanc’s dedicated butler, you can spend a day aboard a 69′ yacht whose experienced Captain will unveil St Barts’ most gorgeous bays. There are lots of little surprises spread on board by their Majordome throughout the day, such as the Maison’s beach bag, complete with panama hats and matching fans, sun lotions and other treats. After exploring the marvels underwater, you will drop anchor in front of the pristine Saline Beach and enjoy a fresh lobster lunch. I know. It’s heaven sent. The rest of the afternoon can be spent swimming, sunbathing or indulging in an exclusive, onboard Guerlain spa ritual. One last cocktail and delicious amuse-bouches will be served while you enjoy the sunset, before being brought back to shore.
