Le Guanahani, the iconic St. Barth retreat that has been shuttered since it was damaged by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, will reopen in Spring 2021 as Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth.
It is Rosewood Hotels & Resorts® third property in the Caribbean and first in the French West Indies.
“A legendary resort cherished for its rich offerings, memorable service and captivating landscape, Le Guanahani is a jewel within the Caribbean and an idyllic destination for Rosewood’s affluential explorers,” said Sonia Cheng, chief executive officer of Rosewood Hotel Group. “We are honoured to steward Rosewood Le Guanahani as it sets a new standard of luxury on St. Barth and around the world.”
Originally opened in 1986, the 66-key resort is situated on 18 acres on a private peninsula overlooking the Marigot Bay and Grand Cul-de-Sac beaches. It is the only full-service resort on St. Barth.
The property’s restoration, led by David M. Schwarz Architects and Luis Pons Design Lab, evokes the French Caribbean heritage of the island with its signature colour palette of vibrant turquoise inspired by the Caribbean water, yellow reflecting the tropical sun and lavender as a nod to the south of France.
When it reopens it will offer:
- completely renovated guestrooms, suites and villas, many with new private pools;
- a new distinct beachfront dining concept;
- a new pool;
- updated fitness centre and tennis courts;
- Sense, A Rosewood Spa;
- a Rosewood Explorers children’s club;
- and dedicated event spaces.
Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth will continue to operate under the leadership of managing director Martein van Wagenberg, who has managed the property for six years. It will be a return to the Rosewood family for van Wagenberg, who previously held managing director positions at Rosewood Little Dix Bay and Las Ventanas al Paraiso, A Rosewood Resort.
“For over 30 years Le Guanahani has been renowned for its unique guest experiences and sustainable approach to hospitality—a true reflection of the destination,” said van Wagenberg. “Rosewood Hotels & Resorts is the perfect partner and one that shares our core values through their A Sense of Place philosophy, demonstrated through an unwavering commitment to our associates and community. This is an extraordinary opportunity for the Le Guanahani team to join Rosewood’s global network and stand alongside sister properties such as the iconic Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel in Paris, Las Ventanas al Paraiso in Los Cabos and The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel, in New York City. We are delighted to launch a new chapter of Le Guanahani’s storied legacy with Rosewood by our side.”