At Le Guanahani, the first choice of the day may be which water to face. On one side of the peninsula lies the Grand Cul-de-Sac lagoon. On the other, Maréchal Bay opens toward the ocean. Between them, colorful cottages sit among tropical gardens. The setting is familiar to St. Barthelemy regulars but the name above the door is changing.
Airelles Le Guanahani is now open, following its announced November 1 debut under the French luxury hotel collection. A new chapter for an beautiful resort, a transition documented by Le Journal de Saint-Barth.
For Airelles, the arrival adds a Caribbean setting to a collection associated with places such as Courchevel, Gordes and Versailles. For travelers, the immediate attraction is a substantial stretch of waterfront amongst the most coveted addresses, defined by their relationship to the sea.
Two Beaches, Two Moods
The property occupies seven hectares on the island’s northeastern tip. Its accommodations are arranged as individual houses, with Creole-influenced architecture, painted wooden verandas and windows opening toward the gardens and water.
That layout gives the resort offers a choice to travelers; a room here conveys a particular relationship to the grounds: close to the beach, tucked into a garden or positioned for a broader view.
The beaches and pools offer their own alternatives. Grand Cul-de-Sac is the lagoon side, suited to snorkeling, kayaking and paddleboarding; Maréchal Bay has the more exposed, ocean-facing landscape. An infinity pool overlooks the lagoon, while the spa pool is reserved for adults.
A House for the Holiday Gathering
Among the larger accommodations, the Garden House is designed for up to seven guests. It comprises two connected houses arranged over two levels around a terrace and private pool, with three entrances and three bedrooms.
The master bedroom has its own bathroom, while the two upstairs bedrooms are interconnected, each with a bathroom. Listed inclusions range from breakfast and a minibar to packing and unpacking assistance and a limited daily laundry allowance. Kids Club access is also included.
The Table Turns Toward the Caribbean
Dining at La Table du Guanahani moves from buffet service at breakfast and lunch to a dinner menu combining Caribbean influences with international dishes. Le Pélican provides a beach-facing bar setting.
The resort has already put a distinctly American occasion on its calendar. Its November 26 Thanksgiving dinner is planned beside the lagoon, with a menu described as combining traditional favorites and Caribbean flavors. Published prices are €125 per adult and €60 per child.
