La Samanna

With low-lying Mediterranean-style villas spread out over a long stretch of one of St. Martin's finest beaches, La Samanna has earned a reputation as a world-class complex where the cognoscenti come to relax and unwind. The resort is indeed lovely (the views from the hotel's signature restaurant are divine), and the colonial-style lobby and bar are handsomely atmospheric. An Orient-Express hotel, La Samanna is currently upgrading its rooms, and good thing: Despite the elegance of its artworks, the luxuriousness of the bathrooms, and the close proximity of all villas to the beach, the rooms decor is a tad uninspired, and some guests report that maintenance is not quite what it should be. The construction of extravagant new privately owned villas on its southeastern flank may cause some temporary noise.

That said, it's still pretty swell: Regardless of their size, most rooms feature private terraces. Suites and villas have spacious bedrooms with luxurious beds, fully equipped kitchens, living and dining rooms, and large patios. The bathrooms are spacious and well designed, with bidets and hand-painted Mexican tiles. Seven gorgeous specialty villas have rooftop terraces with magnificent views; four have private plunge pools.

Despite the price tag, La Samanna isn't stuffy; everyone is treated royally here. Guests enjoy superb cuisine alfresco on a candlelit terrace spectacularly perched above Baie Longue -- the ambience is pure French Riveria. (Note that children under 7 are not permitted in the main restaurant for dinner). The amazing wine cellar, Le Cave, has expanded its inventory and now holds some 14,000 bottles. The poolside grill serves lunch daily and dinner 2 nights a week. If you can't make dinner in the main restaurant, you can enjoy the same great views at the buffet breakfasts, as delicious as the setting. With the curve of Baie Longue stretched out before you, there are few better ways to start the day.

Facilities:
2 restaurants; 2 bars; outdoor pool; 3 tennis courts; fitness center; spa; sailing; snorkeling; water-skiing; windsurfing; 24-hr. room service; babysitting; laundry service; dry cleaning; nonsmoking rooms; library; wine cellar

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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