The Beating Heart of St Barths

An iconic Caribbean resort, Eden Rock St Barths boasts a rich history dating back to the 1940s when pioneering Franco-Dutch aviator, Rémy de Haenen, serendipitously discovered a rugged promontory while landing his plane on the shores of St. Jean Bay. Recognizing the island’s untapped potential as a vacation haven, Haenen acquired the plot in 1950 and, by 1953, had begun construction on his residence, which he eventually transformed into a charming bed-and-breakfast. It instantly captivated travelers, drawing luminaries like Greta Garbo and Robert Mitchum. Today, under the stewardship of Oetker Collection and the Matthews family, who acquired the property in 2014, this secluded retreat continues to captivate global jetsetters, offering 37 rooms and villas, three chic restaurants and bars, and a cutting-edge spa. In celebration of its 70th anniversary, Assouline just unveiled a new coffee table book dedicated to the establishment.

The last takeoff of the day at golden hour. (Courtesy of Romain Réglade)

Assouline’s Eden Rock St Barths

With an introduction by British journalist and St Barths frequenter Vassi Chamberlain, the tome features exclusive archival imagery from the hotel’s early days, taking readers on a visual tour around the estate and its surroundings. Moreover, it delves into the fascinating history of St Barths, which Christopher Columbus first set eyes on in 1493, naming it after his brother Bartholomew. In the centuries that followed, the island’s history is characterized by shifting sovereignty, from early indigenous Carib tribes to French possession in the 17th and 18th centuries and its reclamation from Sweden in 1878. In 1946, around the time of Haenen’s encounter, the residents of St Barths were granted French citizenship with full rights. “As Haenen himself was French, and perhaps because his instinct told him his beloved craggy bluff might have a future, he decided to spearhead the change [he wanted] by running for office,” said Chamberlain. Haenen went on the become the island’s consul general in 1953 and mayor in 1962. His visionary leadership resulted in the construction of the island’s inaugural airstrip and road network, pivotal milestones that laid the groundwork for its transformation into a premier tourist destination. His home became the island’s first hotel in 1956. “There’s no question Rémy de Haenen started tourism on St Barths,” said Fabrice Moizan, Eden Rock’s general manager. “He was the magnet for everyone to come here. During his time, it became the most famous bed-and-breakfast for all those who wanted to live in an exotic European way.”

Map of St Barths (Courtesy of Jane Black)

An aerial view of the Rock and the hotel’s plantation area.
(Courtesy of Pixel Creation)

Today, although an ultra-luxe hotel, Eden Rock St Barths maintains the atmosphere of familial warmth that characterized Haenen’s original bed-and-breakfast. “We became very attracted to the principle of it not being a hotel, of people coming to a place where they felt at home,” expressed current owner David Matthews. “Every person, whether they only stay once or become a returning guest, is treated by the team as someone special,” said loyal guest Sharon Hudaly. Pick up a copy of Assouline’s work to feel part of the family.

Enjoy a pathway to Caribbean heaven. (Courtesy of Noe DeWitt)