The Caribbean island of St Barthelemy or St Barts is part of the French West Indies, a grouping which also includes neighbouring Guadeloupe, Martinique and St Martin. Home to just 8,500 permanent residents and covering just 21 square kilometres, the tiny island of St Barts is still one of the most popular of the Caribbean resorts, stunning beaches and historical and cultural attractions too. The island, an overseas collectivity of France, actually has the Euro as its official currency, and while French is the official language, most locals also speak English. There are no direct flights from Europe to St Barts, but you can get an island hopper plane or ferry from nearby St Martin.
The most popular accommodation on St Barts are private rentals, hiring villas or cottages either by the coast or in the hills. Many have their own pools and some even come with a staff to provide meals and housekeeping services. All 14 beaches on St Barts have the white sand that most people imagine when they think of the Caribbean, rather than the black volcanic sand found on many other islands in the region. The Grand Cul de Sac and Saint Jean are the main beaches, where you can also find many of the island's bars and restaurants.
If you are looking for more peace and quiet or privacy, head to the Colombier beach, which can only be reached by boat or by a 30-minute hike through a forest! Saline beach is where the rich and beautiful hang out, while the Toiny beach is popular with surfers. Beware the strong currents here, though, if you decide to go for a swim. Water sports are very popular throughout the Caribbean, and St Barts is no exception. The harbour here is always full of expensive private yachts, though it is often possible to hire one for a day or at least take a day trip around the island.
Like many of the islands in the Caribbean. St Barts has a fascinating history, having changed hands many times since Europeans first settled here. The main town of Gustavia, home to the fishing and pleasure boat port, still has many of the original buildings constructed by the first Swedish settlers. The town does have a very Scandinavian feel to it, especially the colourful church and colonial houses surrounding it. Just outside the town, along a short footpath, you come to Fort Gustave, built by the first Swedish settlers in 1785. Although the building is now in ruins, you can still climb onto some of the ramparts and appreciate the fine view the defenders had over the Caribbean Sea.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in St. Barthelemy? Then below is a selection of apartments in St. Barthelemy and villas in St. Barthelemy that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
