Small, secluded and oh-so-special, La Banane hotel's jungle-set cluster of bungalows offer a palm-shaded hideaway from the jet-setting St Barths high life. A cleverly designed two-tiered pool area gives way to a sophisticated open-air library, where the hotel's glitterati guests flock for sundowners, before retiring to the bright, white four-poster-boasting bedrooms. Lush with tropical vegetation and just two minutes from the beach, the hotel is a Caribbean dream come beautifully, boutique-ishly true.

Packing tips
The thick foliage of the jungle gardens attracts mosquitoes, so be sure to have lashings of repellent to hand. Don't bother bulking up your baggage with beach towels, you'll find some in your bungalow.

Hotel restaurants
Lunch and dinner can be arranged; the hotel is happy to set up your room's private terrace for this purpose. For lunch, order from the list of simple salads and sandwiches. For dinner, pick from the Asian-accented seafood. There's also the African-themed French dining lounge next door, K'Fé Massai - one of St Barth's finest eateries.

Hotel bars
La Banane's cocktail bar is located in the elegant poolside library, with a long communal table, cosy sofas, and a sophisticated lounge-ish atmosphere.

Activities

Two minutes from the hotel, Lorient Bay is a swathe of white beach ideal for fishing trips, fabulous snorkelling, and water sports. It's possible to circumnavigate St Barths by Jet Ski, or, if you prefer a more sedate ride, to rent a boat from the Marine Service or a yacht from Yannis Marine. Plongee Caraibes operates scuba and snorkelling trips.

Contact Book La Banane with Mr & Mrs Smith or call 0845 034 0700

Rates Low season €385; high season €485; Christmas, €1,050, including Continental breakfast, airport transfers and service. There's an extra government tax of €18-€43 a night, depending on the time of year.

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