Description Lagoon at the Pergola: Au Vent

Perched on the heights of Marigot, this villa is built around the view – a long private pool edged by tropical vegetation, with the turquoise waters of the Grand-Cul-de-Sac lagoon unfurling ahead. The covered dining terrace seats up to ten alfresco, and a wooden pergola on the pool deck filters the Caribbean breeze into something sheltered and unhurried. A third bedroom sits in its own poolside bungalow, keeping things private and connected to the outdoors in equal measure. Vaulted ceilings and vivid artwork inside, concierge and daily housekeeping when you need them – it's a well-considered base for doing Saint-Barthélemy properly.

Home truths:
* The villa is spread across three separate buildings on the hillside, so you'll be stepping outside to move between the main living areas and the bungalow bedroom at the end of the pool. It's a lovely layout in fine weather, but worth factoring in if anyone in your group has mobility considerations.
* You're up in the hills above Grand-Cul-de-Sac rather than on the beach itself, so you'll need a car to reach the lagoon, restaurants, and the rest of the island easily.
* Housekeeping is provided daily except on Sundays and public holidays. Towels are swapped every two days and bed linen every three days.
* Also included with your stay is a personalised welcome at St-Jean Airport or Gustavia Port.
* If you're travelling with little ones, your host can provide a cot and high chair at no additional cost. You'll need to request them in advance.