The Carl Gustaf is a boutique resort in ultra-exclusive St Barts. Perched high above the harbour of Gustavia, it is surrounded by lush vegetation and enjoys gorgeous views across the azure waters below. The brainchild of Frenchman Jacques Laurent, this is a small, intimate hideaway that attracts the gliteratti set in droves. Gustavia itself is a duty-free port town of high-end boutiques, gleaming yachts and elegant restaurants.

The facilities

The hotel is named after the current King of Sweden, and in keeping with these royal roots, facilities here are top-notch and sophisticated. The restaurant serves up refined French-Caribbean fare, accompanied by a wine-cellar that holds more than 300 vintages. The spa area, which stocks the exclusive Carita Sisters line (Paloma Picasso and Catherine Deneuve were fans), offers a comprehensive range of the most sumptuous treatments to be found on the island. Add to this a chic outdoor pool area and terrace, and you have one of the most sybaritic retreats in the Caribbean.

The rooms

Only fourteen suites make up the Hotel Carl Gustaf. All boasts magnificent harbour views and are light, bright and spacious. Private plunge pools, flat screen televisions, separate living areas and iPod docks come as standard. Add to this private terraces or gardens in the bigger suites and fully-equipped kitchenettes, and you have a romantic hideaway to suit the most discerning of tastes.