Hotel Carl Gustaf St. Barths Set to Re-Open

Long hailed for its dazzling views, luxe accommodation, superb cuisine, and high level of personalized guest service, this heavenly hilltop hide-away is nearing completion of a major multi-million dollar refit, which has transformed the legendary landmark into a true 21st Century glamorous retreat, one that is poised to redefine the global standard for the chic island experience when it re-opens its doors on December 15, 2008.

French Designer Franck Reynaud and his team are at the helm of the resort's new look. Celebrated throughout his illustrious career for designing customized luxury power and sailing yachts for French yachting company COUACH, Franck is now independent, busily creating his own unique signature design statements that continue to receive international acclaim.

Changes at Hotel Carl Gustaf are extensive: a newly-designed kitchen, signature restaurant and cocktail lounge; a new reception area, a magnificent new four-bedroom penthouse suite -- replete with amazing vistas of the Caribbean Sea -- a sparkling new Spa, including 1,600-square feet of pure unadulterated pampering, and many other unique surprises.

Carl Gustaf's new design features a completely new gastronomic restaurant called Victoria's, where acclaimed Executive Chef Emmanuel Motte will serve his award-winning cuisine, featuring the freshest ingredients possible prepared in cosmopolitan dishes inspired by his French roots and, influenced not only by France and the bountiful Caribbean region, but beyond to Asia as well. With fantastic new furnishings, flooring, exquisite fabrics and architectural detail, there will be an entirely new look and feel to this well-known dining spot.

Completely revamped, the Carl Gustaf Lounge, consistently ranked among the best locales in the world for sunset cocktails, will now offer a stylish yet relaxing setting at any time of day or night, with a new menu of petite delicacies for lunch and dinner, and a creative new assortment of signature drinks. Live music will keep the vibe going long after the sun has set.

Design details are sensational too - Victoria's and The Lounge feature luxe appointments with designer labels. Dedon's Bonneville line of comfortable and stylish furnishings, including sleek dining chairs in the restaurant and low chairs in The Lounge donned in fabrics by Missoni and Kenzo adding tasteful punches of color. Dedon's Java Lounge line will be featured in The Lounge's ultra-plush private dining area. Ideal for parties and special dinners for up to ten, this sumptuous space will feature a private terrace overlooking the Sea as well as the resort's new waterfall. In addition to Dedon, The Lounge also will feature Roche-Bobois couches, with rich, colourful Missoni fabrics and, underfoot, Porcelanosa Italian tiles throughout.

A pristine new Boutique Spa by Carita will provide a one-of-a-kind sanctuary of peace and tranquility. Created by the legendary Carita sisters of Paris, whose celebrated patrons include Catherine Deneuve and Paloma Picasso, Carita Spa guests will be able to select from an extensive list of exclusive services and treatments. The Spa will feature two treatment/massage rooms; one single and a double for couples. Each will have a private outside deck with loungers; a Hydro Zone with a steam room; a choice of showers, with one offering essential oils; an outside deck with a Jacuzzi/pool, with a special jet that guests can "swim against" on one side. In addition to chaise lounges, decks sport a special "ice-fountain," for cold dips when using the Jacuzzi or in-between steam-room sessions.

For many, the piece de resistance of the re-fit may be Carl Gustaf's indulgent and new "over-the-top" four-bedroom 2,600 sq-ft Royale Suite, replete with private entrance, an over-sized living room; four separate ensuite bedrooms; a large fully-equipped kitchen; separate lounge area; and several terraces to maximize the island vistas. The loft-like master bedroom with its king-size bed and multi-jet shower has been specially designed for the ultimate relaxation and comfort. Outside, guests will enjoy the Suite's enchanting 2,600 sq-ft walled garden terrace, as well as the exquisite infinity pool and Jacuzzi. Among the island's finest accommodations, the Royale Suite will be ideal for discerning couples, intimate groups and family.

Just steps from the sea on the dramatic Hill of Gustavia and amid the epicenter of St. Barth's famously upscale social scene, Hotel Carl Gustaf offers the utmost in privacy hailed for its discreet staff, idyllic locale, breathtaking vistas and gourmet dining. Each of the resort's 14 harbor-facing suites is elegantly furnished with a rich blend of classic, yet modern appointments, mixing new with antique and contemporary with traditional. All offer private terraces and plunge pools, marble flooring, tiled bathrooms, rich mahogany furnishings, and convenient kitchenettes. Comfy chairs await the resort's tony clientele on St. Barth's famous Shell Beach, just a leisurely stroll away.

St. Barth's is located in the French West Indies and, at just eight square miles, is one of the tiniest islands in the Caribbean. Dazzling blue waters are ideal for swimming and every water sport imaginable. Guests can also choose to relax either poolside in the privacy of their suite or select from a wide range of exciting activities from sailing, deep sea fishing and SCUBA diving, to romantic island tours aboard The Carl Gustaf III, the resort's 52' fully-crewed exclusive yacht. Whatever the pleasure, Hotel Carl Gustaf creates tailor-made itineraries that make lifelong memories.

More information: Hotel Carl Gustaf