Villa Clarisse

Hotel review

Away from the bustle of St Martin’s harbour, and behind an unassuming door, Villa Clarisse is as discreet as it is luxuriously sleek. Inside, the 18th-century villa is surprisingly large, stretching back through a courtyard and garden to a pool. Just nine rooms are spread between the main house and courtyard buildings; it feels like staying in a friend’s rather grand villa as opposed to a hotel.

Everywhere, from public rooms to bedrooms, is startlingly white: walls, raftered ceilings, staircases and soft furnishings giving the impression of perpetual sunshine. Bold monochrome-patterned rugs, bed-throws and seat covers add drama. Nothing is overdone, and there’s an emphasis on natural materials: linen curtains, pale-wood floors, white painted bedheads and the occasional antique as well as some interesting artwork or sculpture. Spacious bathrooms have a separate bath and shower. The overall feel is an expensive but simple elegance, and very calming.

Breakfast in the all-white dining room is very French and very refined – delicate fruit salad, yogurt, Viennoiserie, perfect golden-yellow omelettes. There’s an honesty bar, too. Dinner options are numerous; sister hotel, Le Toiras, a five-minute walk, offers fine dining, or there are numerous harbourside restaurants.

Guests - some of whom arrive by private jet – are often happy just to relax by the heated pool or take a treatment in the small spa discreetly tucked by the pool. They might saunter around St Martin’s shops, or hire a bike to have lunch at an oyster shack. Life at Villa Clarisse is about switching off, getting the shoulders to relax, and allowing yourself to be looked after by one of the team of friendly but discreet staff.

Helen Pickles Review published: 26/02/2024