No place in the world embodies the definition of paradise better than St Barths. Compass + Twine share the three reasons the roller coaster flight in is worth (nearly) dying for.
For a moment, I was certain I was dead. The murky, black of the pavement below was the last thing I saw before I closed my eyes and prayed. The eight-seat prop plane prepared for landing by diving an abrupt 90-degree down, directly towards the airstrip. As my fingernails dug into my palms and the sweat poured from my brow, I thought to myself, “At least I died in paradise”.
The flight to Saint-Barthélemy – fondly known as St Barths – is not for the faint of heart, but trust us, it’s worth it. One of the shortest landing strips in the world, actually getting to St Barths is a bit of a harrowing task. Large jetliners aren’t able to land there, so if you’d like to fly, you need to connect in St Maarten and then hop aboard a smaller prop plane. The flight itself is easy, the view of sailboats and cerulean waters from above is gorgeous, and the commute is a quick 15 minutes. It’s the landing that could make your heart stop. Cruising over Gustavia Harbour, the pilot effectively nose-dives into landing on an incredibly short runway, then slams the brakes to prevent running into the crystal-clear water at the end of the strip. By the time the plane comes to a stop, your heart is pounding. The other (undoubtedly less scary) option is a ferry, which takes over an hour to make the journey. In this case, a near-death experience is worth it to arrive in paradise sooner.
The Caribbean island is small – only 25 square kilometres – but every single inch of it is stunning. Landing there may be scary, but the island makes up for it 100-fold.
1. Stunning beaches
Known for its turquoise waters and world-class beaches, there are plenty of gorgeous spots to spend the day. Renting a car is the easiest way to get around and affords you the opportunity to explore. Flamands, Grand Cul-de-Sac and Saline beaches are all picturesque beaches to bring a picnic and relax. The water is typically calm, making these beaches ideal for swimmers. While nudity isn’t allowed on the island, you’ll inevitably find some rebels looking to eliminate their tan lines on Saline Beach. If you’re looking to get your cardio in, go for a morning hike along Colombier Beach trail. The terrain is a bit rocky and uneven and, while not the more strenuous hike in the world, you’ll break a sweat and be relieved when you spot the white sand of Colombier Beach. Reachable only by the hike or by water, it’s rarely crowded and always quiet. On the beaches of Toiny, Lorient and Saint-Jean, the big waves roll in, inviting the surf crowd. If that’s your thing, there are several surfing and windsurfing outfitters on the island where you can rent a board or schedule lessons.
2. French-ribbean food
Perhaps the best thing about St Barths is the cuisine. A perfect marriage of classical French technique and Caribbean flavours, the food here is unique and delicious. Fresh seafood is as abundant as just-baked baguettes and no matter the season, the island drink of choice is rosé. The mix of French menu staples like foie gras with Caribbean favourites like langoustine make each meal exciting and flavourful. Lunch at La Langouste on Flamands Beach is a must, which specialises in lobster plucked straight from the tank and set on the grill. For a casual dinner, head to L’Esprit, the restaurant opened by chef Jean-Claude Dufour. Previously the chef at Eden Rock, he focuses on fresh seafood (the scallops are to die for) and the wine list is extensive. Another favourite is Tamarin, where the tables are tucked into their garden affording diners a bit of privacy while they enjoy their meal. If you’re in the mood for a picnic, the local grocery stores have great options like prosciutto and brie sandwiches that are perfect for taking with you.
3. Fewer crowds
If you time it right, the crowds will likely be nonexistent. Since it takes a bit more time and effort to get to, the island is a reprieve from the bustle and chaos of other popular Caribbean destinations. In fact, with the exception of holidays, when the rich and famous flock to the island in hoards, St Barths really doesn’t get too crowded. Restaurants reservations are easy to snag and beaches have ample space to sprawl out. Unlike some destinations where you’re meant to stay the entire time on a resort property, St Barths is meant to be explored. Unlike a busy city, you won’t find yourself stuck in traffic while tooling around and cabs are easy to come by. Shopping in the pricey boutiques feels like a private experience, with shop associates eager to help you find the perfect item. The absence of crowds means you can really unwind and relax. Instead, your biggest concern can be what cocktail to order next and where to enjoy lunch. If that doesn’t sound like paradise, I don’t know what does.
All photos: Compass + Twine
by Lindsay Ridenour of Compass + Twine
Sarah Driggs and Lindsay Ridenour are the storytellers behind the NYC-based luxury travel blog, Compass + Twine. Follow along on Instagram @compassandtwine as they unearth some of the best hotels and travel experiences around the globe. From scenic landscapes to local cafés, they reveal the true character of a destination, always highlighting the best place to stay!
