Terraced in the green hillsides above Grand Case, this Provençal-style boutique resort has long been our favorite place to stay on the island. It just gets everything right, and does it with style. High standards are keenly maintained in the collection of contempory suites, all featuring sun-splashed tile terraces facing the sea and full kitchens. Some rooms are duplexes and a little dark, but all are oases of understated luxury, featuring dreamy "Celestial" beds (some in mahogany four-posters), and many with big, pebble-surfaced showers. For a private-home feel, the ocean-view villa higher up on the hill offers three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a gourmet kitchen ($4,830–$6,930/week). The resort makes a fetching sight on its hillside perch: The limestone exterior is inlaid with imported tiles, and colorful bougainvillea spills over balconies. The terraced grounds have steps leading down to the gardens and pool—something to keep in mind if mobility is an issue. The resort has no restaurant, although an island-style lunch is often served by the pool in high season. But the vaunted bistros of Grand Case are just a 5-minute stroll away along a lighted path through a canopy of tropical greenery.
St. Maarten/St. Martin
Travel Guide
St. Maarten/St. Martin› Hotel
Hôtel L’Esplanade
Grand Case, St. Martin
Our Rating
Neighborhood
Grand Case
Phone
US 866/596-8365, 590/87-06-55
Prices
In season $415 studio, $445–$515 loft, $515 suite, off season $265 studio, $295–$365 loft, $365 suite, extra person (including children) in season $75, off season $55
Units
24
Amenities
Pool bar (winter), babysitting, outdoor
pool, free Wi-Fi
Web site
Hôtel L’Esplanade

Map
Grand Case, St. Martin St. Maarten/St. MartinNote: 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.