Hotel Christopher

A little more seascape, a little less scene — the Christopher might be a touch more down-to-earth than some of St. Barth’s poshest places, but it’s still pretty darn posh. What sets it apart from the competition — aside from its hillside location in Pointe Milou, which literally sets it apart from the island’s busier locales — is a certain unpretentiousness, a welcoming atmosphere and a humble approach that, like good posture or a warm personality, makes an already stunning hotel look just that much better.

Rooms and suites are bright, crisp and contemporary, many with private patios, others with open-air living areas that blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor space. And if simplicity isn’t your thing, the Christopher can do lavish as well — check out the suites, which remain tightly composed even as they begin to spread out: the Ocean Jacuzzi Suite feels like a St. Barths dream home, and the Ocean Panoramic Suite feels positively presidential.

The beaches aren’t far away, but for most of us the infinity pool with its poolside loungers (and drink service) will be quite enough. Between this, a pair of bars, the brand-new SISLEY Spa and the hotel’s two restaurants (one for lunch, one for breakfast and dinner) the Christopher feels remarkably self-contained. But your exile here is wholly voluntary — surfing, windsurfing, deep-sea fishing and all manner of boating and sailing excursions are all well within the realm of possibility.

How to get there: Christopher Hotel is located 10 miles (15 min) from the Rémy de Haenen Airport. The hotel provides guests complimentary transfers on the day of arrival and departure.