After the American banker David Rockefeller purchased an estate on St. Barth in 1957, the island of St. Barth developed into a posh luxury tourist destination. The Kardashians enjoy staying here, as do Leonardo DiCaprio, Penélope Cruz and Brad Pitt - Hollywood stars treat themselves to an exclusive, secluded vacation in one of the numerous luxury villas on St. Barth.

© Jeanne LE MENN

The sand is nowhere else as fine, the surrounding sailing areas are perfect. St. Barth is almost a little too clean; in some corners the island seems almost artificial. Nevertheless, it has a lot of flair.

What to do

In addition to dream beaches and expensive yachts in the harbor, the capital Gustavia also offers tax-free luxury shopping. While the cuisine in the Caribbean can sometimes simply be down-to-earth, the French-Caribbean cuisine of St. Barth acts on a high level - in November there is also a gourmet festival, in April and May there's a cinema festival.

Be sure to include a day on Shell Beach, which is dotted with millions of shells. Grand Cul-de-Sac Lagoon is on the less developed side of the island and offers pristine charm; Flamands Beach is popular with surfers for its waves. Governor's Beach, on the other hand, has cobalt blue waters; Colombier Beach can only be reached by boat or via a half-hour hike, but it offers a gorgeous view. 

Where to stay

Eden Rock

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On a rocky outcrop, surrounded by sandy beaches and turquoise sea, lies this luxury hotel - a place where Greta Garbo, the Rockefellers, the Rothschilds and many more sought relaxation.

Eden Rock
Baie de Saint Jean Saint Barthélemy, 97133, Saint-Barthélemy
Web: oetkercollection.com
Price: Bed and breakfast included from € 1700,-

Rosewood Le Guanahani

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The elegant resort is located on a private peninsula with access to two beaches and the calm waters of the protected lagoon. 

Rosewood Le Guanahani
Grand Cul-de-sac, 97133 Saint-Barthélemy
Web: rosewoodhotels.com
Price: double room from € 1650,- per night

Le Sereno

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Star designer Christian Liaigre's minimalist design has made the top hotel's 39 rooms and three villas shine more elegantly than ever since 2019 (after hurricane-related reconstruction).

Le Sereno
Grand Cul-de-sac BP 19, Saint-Barthélemy
Web: serenohotels.com
Price: double room incl. breakfast from € 1000,- per night

Where to eat

Bonito

The cozy look of the popular "Bonito" resembles that of a beach house - here guests should feel at home and enjoy a cool glass of champagne, conviviality and good food at large tables.

Web: bonitosbh.com

Rivyera

Two-star chef Arnaud Faye spoils his guests with gourmet creations from the south of France. The sound of the sea at the foot of the cliff provides romance.

Web: hotelchristopher.com

restaurant Le Sereno

Every Monday "Le Sereno" becomes the place to be when the Aperitivo Night invites you to dance and relax with live music, cocktails and Italian antipasti.

Web: serenohotels.com

Text: Karin Cerny and Katharina Kotrba