Entirely renovated under the aegis of the Barrière group, the iconic Carl Gustaf in Saint-Bart's revives its origins—those of a tropical elegance spot, relaxed, exalting the French Caribbean chic. Would you like to come along and see?
A yacht on the hill
Embark on the Carl Gustaf like you would climb aboard the deck of a yacht: the hotel is perched on a hill lined with tropical vegetation. On the horizon, the sparkling blues of the Caribbean Sea fade into the azure of the sky: let yourself be lulled by the trade winds which gently rattle the leaves, releasing mysterious scents of the West Indies. The roofs of Gustavia port are calling you? Be sure to listen and take advantage of the equatorial sun!
Sketch of tropical paradise
Undersigned by the Gilles & Boissier duo, the new "Carl" offers decor of discreet luxury, elegant outline of a tropical paradise. Natural materials - wood and stones - in soothing tones, fabrics with reflections as changeable as the Caribbean sky; each of the 23 bungalows, rooms and suites encourage you to let go in these precious oases where you inspire to "douciner" (to cuddle in Creole).
The beach, naturally
At the end of a flight of steps lies Shell Beach, a cove hemmed with white sand: the perfect place to drop anchor. Among the shade of the palms and parasols, the alfresco offerings of the Shellona restaurant are between the Caribbean and the Mediterranean: meze or mahi-mahi fish in coconut milk, what's your preference? And what comes after lunch? A languorous nap rocked by the surf.
Make yourself at home
At the Carl Gustaf, time stretches out along the terraces of the bungalows, lodgings of opulent dimensions which are like real houses in the hotel, ideal to share as a couple, with friends, family or more.
Caribbean light
Sea views and a private swimming pool: on the second floor of the main house, the prestige junior suite abolishes borders and the sets of sliding panels measure the rays of the sun, capitalizing on the balmy Caribbean climate. The outside is inside!.
French chiaroscuro
Each detail contributes to shaping a soft, subdued atmosphere, inspired by the chiaroscuro of Creole residences. The intermingling of materials responds to shades of light and shade, weaving subtle harmonies. The tropical elegance at night is as beautiful as it is during the day!
Colonial plantation
Snuggled up in the precious interior of the hotel, you can almost forget the essential: the environment! One of the loveliest and most venerable remains of the colonial era, almost two centuries old, is here! As in a typical plantation, everything is there, the wooden galleries offering the trade winds to those lounging on them, and the dazzling setting of the greenery.
By Anne-Claire Delorme
Globetrotting journalist anneclairedelorme@yahoo.fr