La Samanna
The Lowlands, Caribbean, St Martin

La Samanna’s Elysée Spa boasts trained Phytomer beauty specialists, who are on hand to select the best treatments for guests according to their individual needs. Massage, face packs, baths and beauty care hold no secrets for them. Using the Phytomer method, the beauticians know exactly how and when to use seawater and seaweed in the cosmetics and dietetics fields. Charming and attentive, they will help guests find their beauty equilibrium in a peaceful atmosphere. At Elysée Spa, massage is seen as a powerful tool in helping to relax the body and mind, rebalance energies and take a step towards a healthy lifestyle. Reflexology is used to restore the flow of energy through the body while Balneotheray helps to promote slimming and eliminate water from tissues by increasing metabolism. The popular Phytomer body wrap is an intense nourishing treatment that uses a combination of seaweed, healing gels and oils for a detoxifying effect. To work off some calories, head to the resort’s fitness pavilion or its three championship tennis courts. A pilates studio, freshwater swimming pool and water sports also provide plenty of distractions. Finally, charter the hotel’s 38ft motor boat, La Samanna III, for memorable half- and full-day trips.

The epitome of graceful Mediterranean architecture, La Samanna offers 81 air-conditioned guest rooms, suites and villas, each featuring an extraordinary ocean view.

Complementing the guest facilities are a host of new dining options from executive chef Erwan Louaisil, whose impressive resume includes positions at six Michelin-starred restaurants in France, London and New York. La Samanna, part of Orient-Express Hotels, is frequented by many notable guests including Courtney Cox, Cindy Crawford and designers Dolce & Gabbana. La Samanna’s Restaurant offers open-air dining with panoramic beach and ocean views. The restaurant combines fresh, lively island flavours with classical French techniques. The wine cellar features one of the most extensive collections in the Caribbean. Additionally, the Beach Bar serves snacks, salads and cocktails while a tempting lunch service is offered at the Poolside Grill.

Available upon request

Towns on the French side of St Martin island have a beguiling West Indian charm coupled with distinct touches of France such as typical bakeries, open-air markets and seaside cafés that seem to have been transplanted intact from the Riviera. Marigot, the capital, is no longer the sleepy fishing village it once was. It has awakened to tourism, sprucing up its lovely old houses and building new stores, restaurants, marinas, a waterfront promenade, a handsome marketplace and a pier for yachts. The coastline is set with deep coves and bays and there are about 36 beautiful beaches encircling the entire island. The waters are unusually clear, and snorkellers can spot brilliantly coloured fish at just 30ft deep.