The iconic Eden Rock – all glitzy and glamorous sitting on that rocky promontory is a St. Barth landmark with a fascinating history. It began as just six hotel rooms back in the ‘50s and was the hobbyhorse of Dutch aviator, Remy de Haenen, considered to be the father of tourism here. From the start it drew Hollywood types the ilk of Greta Garbo and Howard Hughes and hosted the first wave of jet setters including lots of Europeans looking for that quintessential bolthole.

Like life, the Eden Rock has had some ups and downs but they are baaack – and on top. Under the stewardship of owners (since 1995) David and Jane Matthews, the hotel has been beautifully refurbished and with the acquisition of the former Filao Beach Hotel has grown to include thirty-two accommodations, but happily the intimate feel remains. Today you might spot Cameron Diaz noshing on tapas and let’s just say when people go barefoot here; they’ve taken off their Prada sandals.

The location alone has a huge WOW factor: jutting out into St. Jean Bay with one of St. Barth’s trademark white sandy beaches on either side. They offer a full complement of water sports on lively St. Jean Beach; we love to lunch at the Sand Bar, and the beach in front is fully serviced. The two restaurants on property are second-to-none and between the drop-dead views and the celebrity spotting, you’ve got yourself a very special evening.

Few hotels bear an owner’s mark more than the Eden Rock. The Matthews oversee all the interior design and the rooms are individually decorated; some sleek, some a bit funky – all very stylish. Interspersed throughout are antiques they’ve brought back from their European trips. And then there is Jane’s Gallery, a unique venue with parallel functions, exhibiting for local artists and a venue for guests to explore their artistic side and take brush to canvas. Novices are welcome.

New Villa Nina
Brand new and ultra-luxuious, the just unveiled Villa Nina is the first of two, 6-Star accommodations that will be of part of the innovative Eden Rock Estates. Ocean front on St. Jean Beach with its own private pool and Jacuzzi, a wealth of amenities includes a dedicated butler and use of Mini-Cooper…more

A Few of Our Favorite Things

• The Greta Garbo Suite – all done up in Hollywood 1930s style and looking out to the sea.
• All those gorgeous shades of red. You’ll know what we mean when you get there.

Who Would Just Love It Here

Everyone – especially all those who would like to come home with bragging rights. The Eden Rock is arguably the most famous hotel in St. Barth.