Fodor's Expert Review Eden Rock St Barths

Even on an island known for gourmet cuisine and luxury hotels, this iconic luxury hotel stands out thanks to top-tier Jean-Georges Vongerichten eateries, spacious rooms, stunning bay views, and cosseting service. St. Barth's first hotel opened in the 1950s on the rocky promontory that splits Baie de St-Jean. Since then it's not only kept up with the times, but evolved into one of the island's top properties (and a favorite with celebs who'd rather relax than make the papers). With 200 employees watching over 37 rooms, the service is unparalleled. Each of the rooms, suites, and villas is tastefully decorated and luxuriously appointed, with high-end TVs and high-speed Internet. Large bathrooms have either deep soaking tubs or walk-in showers; all have loads of fluffy towels, Bulgari, Ligne St. Barths, and Dr. Barbara Sturm amenities. The magnificent beachfront villas sleep up to eight, with full kitchens and beautifully appointed modern living areas. The two ultraluxe beachfront villas, Rockstar, which features 6 beds, and Nina, which features 3 beds, each come with a private pool, private butler, and chef service. A megasuite, the Christopher Columbus, is at the very top of the rock, so you can enjoy the best 180-degree view on the island. There is a well-equipped gym and more than a dozen spa and wellness services that can be brought to your room. The terrific breakfast buffet, included in the rate, is for hotel guests only.