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On St. Barth’s wild and rugged coast, perched above the Bay of Toiny, sits the remarkable Hotel Le Toiny. An intimate and private oasis of luxury, relaxation and high-design, this hotel has to be my absolute favorite on the island. Removed from the “bustle” of Gustavia, yet close enough to reach the island’s best restaurants, nightlife and beaches – Hotel Le Toiny is an ideal place to hunker down and renew yourself on a splendid vacation. And, with a recent renovation, now is the time to experience all it has to offer.
42 acres of hilly land and landscaped gardens cascades down to a private beach. The hotel, a member of Relais and Chateaux, has a personalized and boutique feeling – offering 14 suites that are like private villas in your own little piece of paradise. I stayed in one of the villas for four evenings, experiencing all the hotel has to offer. From the moment I was collected at the tiny airport by hotel staff, I was ushered into a world where I no longer had to think – but my needs were anticipated and every want fulfilled, effortlessly. This is vacation.
Each of the private villas has its own plunge pool, many with incredible views over the bay. The inside of the villas a dressed in white – utilizing luxury French and Italian fabrics, objet d’art and more to create a mood and environment of luxury. The villas come with sitting areas, desks, huge bedrooms and bathrooms – all centered around the view out and over the Caribbean Sea. Beach bags are offered as well as unparalleled service. In fact, I had my breakfast delivered to my villa every morning – which was delicious.
The hotel offers a restaurant, Le Toiny Restaurant, which serves French-inspired cuisine, with a heavy emphasis on seafood. The Toiny Beach Club is just a short walk or drive away – the hotel runs a car that will take you down the steep hill to their private beach. Those who are fit and adventurous are welcome to walk – I did. There you can sit on the sand, stopping only to enjoy a spectacular lunch and cocktails on the sea.
For those who do not care for the beach, you can lay poolside in the central lobby area of the hotel – and enjoy the view.
As you walk the hotel and grounds, you’ll stumble upon gorgeous flowers, native cacti and even goats who graze on the hills. It’s all very romantic.
The decor will mesmerize you – as it did me – with the attention to detail being flawless.
The hotel staff, many whom are imported from France for the season, are very kind and helpful. They will help you in renting a vehicle to explore the island, booking taxis for a dinner at Maya’s or suggest their favorite pastry shops in Gustavia.
What I love about Hotel Le Toiny is the fact that they merge luxury, beauty and comfort so well. You feel at home, not uncomfortable here. This is truly a hotel for those who want to get away and envelope themselves in a cocoon of calm. You’ll leave undoubtedly refreshed. I did.
