Eden Rock-St Barths is a longstanding firm favourite of the rich and famous, so it's no wonder the Duchess of Cambridge, née Kate Middleton's family opted to holiday there this summer. The Middletons were according to reports joining Pippa's former boyfriend, investment banker James Matthews, whose family own the chic retreat on the Caribbean island.
James' brother is Made in Chelsea star Spencer Matthews and his father David Spencer, a former mechanic who built his hugely successful motor and coach business before scooping up Eden Rock with his stylish wife Jane in 1995. The five-star hotel – which has been dubbed one of the top 100 in the world – has now joined the likes of The Lanesborough in London and Paris' Le Bristol through a collaboration with the prestigious Oetker Collection hotel group.Situated on a rocky promontory and surrounded by white coral sandy beaches, clear blue sea and a lovely coral reef full of wild sea life, Eden Rock was built in the 1950s when it quickly became established as the preferred bolthole for the likes of Greta Garbo and Howard Hughes.
The glamorous resort's convenient location in the heart of the island allows guests to easily stroll to the vibrant shops, designer boutiques, quaint bars and restaurants situated in the village of St Jean, and its own open-air restaurant, On The Rocks, dramatically perched atop a giant boulder, attracts islanders daily.
With 34 suites, cottages and villas of stylish individuality; all located on the rock and dotted along the beach or set within the lush green gardens, Eden Rock is intimate and exclusive. Fine interiors are complemented with artworks from private collections, restored antique furniture and Bulgari amenities. Suites include the Howard Hughes Loft, with a 360-degree bay view, as well as the Garbo Suite for a touch of 50s Hollywood glamour.
The two most premium villas of Eden Rock are entirely secluded with access directly to the St Jean beach and a dedicated butler service around the clock.The Rockstar, as it's called, boasts four main suites plus two other rooms, three butlers, maids, two swimming pools, a recording studio – whose equipment includes the 1974 Neve mixing console that John Lennon used to record Imagine – and viewing room. A Harley Davidson and Mini Cooper are also provided for getting around the ten-mile-long French island of St Barts.Room prices start at 650€, or approximately £475, per night.
