Hôtel de Toiras

Hotel review

Arguably, this hotel has the finest location in St Martin, the island’s nominal capital, with its uninterrupted views over the harbour and west-facing sunset-perfect terrace. The hotel’s mix of cream-coloured buildings, from the 12th century to the 17th century, guarantees every bedroom is different in shape and layout – some have mezzanine bathrooms, others a grand fireplace, several overlook the flower-filled courtyard, while one has a cornet turret. But all are luxuriously spacious and share the same Anglo-French country house style: polished-wood and parquet floors, soft-coloured walls and exuberant wallpapers, rich brocade curtains and darkly gleaming antiques. Bathrooms are generous – most with separate bath and shower - and generous with their Chopard products.

Paintings and etchings are liberally distributed, both in the bedrooms and around the hotel – the owners are avid collectors. There’s a charming pale-blue-and-white sitting area in the entrance hall – with fire, should you come in winter; plenty do. Plus a pretty ‘salon’ in pinks and greens overlooking the courtyard garden.

Breakfast in the smart blue-and-white dining room is a delight of everything the French do well – breads, pastries, jams, coffee and, in particular, omelettes among the cooked items. Then explore the town’s fortifications, bell-tower views and not-inexpensive shops, or hire a bike to find the island’s beaches. Return for drinks on the terrace – try a Pineau spritz, a mix of the locally made fortified wine, Pineau, with Prosecco – before an elegant dinner. This might include fish-of-the-day risotto, veal with the island’s famous new potatoes or – if you’re feeling flush – the lobster pasta.

Service throughout is smart, discreet and intuitive with all staff instantly knowing your name. But then that’s what you’d expect at these well-padded prices.

Helen Pickles Review published: 26/02/2024