Sustainability is no longer a buzz word. After experiencing the sheer wrath of mother nature, it’s only natural that hotels rebuild and operate with sustainability top of mind. On an island where luxury abounds, Hotel Manapany was the first to claim status as St. Barth’s eco resort. The newest hotel from the B Signature Hotels and Resorts, the Manapany boldly states ‘clean and green are our promises’ on their website.
The resort produces its own water, uses solar power to generate electricity and only uses electric cars to get around the property. They also offer the electric cars as guest rentals. Only steam and natural products are used in cleaning and maintenance and all hotel towels are made from natural bamboo fibers. All things that quickly add up to make this St. Barth’s first eco resort.
The 43 private villas and suites are spacious and reflect local design, with artisanal furnishings. One-of-a-kind tables made from tropical wood and bright cotton rugs complement cushions woven by Mexican artisans.
The hotel’s vegetable garden and orchard provides fresh, organic ingredients for the healthy cuisine in the restaurant. The garden’s bounty includes citrus, mango, passion fruit, banana and coconut trees. In addition, local fishermen also deliver fresh fish daily, naturally.
What to do
When you’re not lounging poolside or relaxing in your oceanfront villa, rent one of the electric vehicles and explore the island. Stunning, picture perfect beaches like St. Jean are perfect for sunbathing. Lunch at Shellona, on Shell Beach, is exactly where you’ll want to be sipping a glass of rosé while people watching to the beat of the DJ’s set. Dinner at Bonito is a must and brunch at Nikki Beach (located on St. Jean) is an experience that is quintessentially ‘St. Barth,’ with barefoot chic, oceanfront dining.
Warm weather, white sand beaches and crystalline water are usually enough to lure anyone away from home, but if you need a bit more incentive, St. Barth’s first eco resort is a good reason to start planning your trip.
-Michelle Arellano Martin
