Esprit de la Mer - Villa Rental St. Martin

Perched up on a peak is one of our favorite villas on the island of St. Martin called Esprit de la Mer. It has an amazing panoramic 360 degree view overlooking Baie Rouge Beach. This property is nothing short of spectacular with its 4 large bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms. The entire presentation is about true inside/outside seamless living as the interior is focused on capturing the outstanding views.

We were first introduced to Esprit de la Mar in the early 2000’s when it was in need of repair and remodeling. While standing on the peak absorbing the magical views, it was easy to overlook the imperfections of the work that needed to be done and simply let our emotions and imaginations take over on what could become of this unique property.

Our thoughts were, if it was done right, it could be transformed into one of the most requested villa rentals on the island. Seeing how the most sought after request was a villa with an exceptional view, there was no villa on the island that could top this one. Combine the view with a fabulous pool, wide open layout, plenty of privacy, and you have the entire package,

After a couple of years remodeling was completed and we were not disappointed. However, when the hurricane in 2017 hit St. Martin, Esprit de la Mer received serious damage. This was frustrating for the owner, but he did not give up. As you can see from the photographs below, it has once again been repaired and looks better than ever.

There are five bedrooms all with King Beds. Villa renters love their king beds and often will make their villa selection with the villa that features king beds. One of the features the St. Martin villa rentals are famous for are having outstanding large bathrooms. Esprit de la Mer will not disappoint. Huge bathrooms, double sinks, rain shower heads, and outstanding views!

Notice there is plenty of parking space and the driveway is flat. When you have a five bedroom villa it needs to allow adequate parking space for enough rental cars. Plus you will note the driveway provides easy access to the front entrance for bringing in guests luggage and around the corner to the kitchen for provisions.

Potential villa renters always ask for villas that are private. The challenge is what do they mean by private? Esprit de la Mer answers the privacy question very easily. How much more private could you get than having a gated property sitting on top of a cliff. No strangers would be walking by like they would be if the villa was on the beach. Also, there are no neighboring villas that could look at Esprit de la Mer like it was a “fish bowl”. In terms of noise level from neighbors - not going to happen.

Another common question is how close is the villa to a beach? Right below Esprit de la Mer is Baie Rouge Beach. For those ambitious individuals they could actually walk down the road to the entrance to the beach without too much effort, but it’s the walk back up that would not be fun. Recommendation is to simply get in the car and drive down the hill. Ideal would be to include a golf cart.

The pool area was very nicely thought out as it captures the view and provides plenty of open deck space with lots of sunshine. Villa Rental guests enjoy hanging around in and out of a pool. This is especially true when there is a extraordinary view. They quickly learn they will need to seek shade as the suns rays can be quite overwhelming. Esprit de la Mer kept this in mind by providing lots of open space with shade that still allows the guests to be outside.

Each one of these bedrooms takes full advantage of the view as the focal point. Televisions position so the guests can watch them while lying in bed. Large windows and sliding glass doors lets plenty of natural light come streaming in. The walls and bed linens are fresh looking that allow the artwork and accessories to bring in the colors.

Bathrooms are all talked about long after the guests leave. They love the large space and huge showers. Double sinks and lots of cabinet space rather than the cramped space so many are stuck with at home. Yes, they even incorporate having a view.

Closest are fantastic. Walk-in closets with open space for hanging clothes. This allows great ventilation. Notice there are not wire or plastic hangers. Wood hangers are a must - but could use a few more. Great shelves and drawers. There is a full length space to hang a dress right where the safe is located. It is wise to have a safe in every bedroom to provide the guest with a level of comfort,

The last thing guests want to do is spend time in a closed in kitchen away from the other guests. This kitchen has lots of counter space, a view, and provides a space for guests to congregate while others prepare a meal. Notice no tile work that includes grout which collects dirt and is nearly impossible to clean.

If you would like more information or discuss this villa in more detail please feel free to contact us. We realize it speaks volumes to talk to someone who has actually seen the villa and understands its history. Renting a short term rental is a risky adventure. It is our goal to provide you with a level of confidence and comfort that you will not be disappointed.

When you’re reviewing the rates you should consider a couple of items while you’re going through your decision process. The high season daily rate is $1,714, which is includes 4 bedrooms. This translates to $428.50 per bedroom or $2,999.50 per bedroom for the week. If you’re thinking of traveling with other families or couples this makes it easier to understand the cost per couple. You should also compare the daily bedroom rate with that of a hotel during the same time period. Of course, in a hotel you’re only getting one small room and have to share all the facilities with lots of strangers. There is no comparison when it comes to over all value.

What we find amazing is the reduction in price once April 15th arrives. There is just under a 30% savings. This is huge! The weather in St. Martin is pretty much consistent throughout the year. The temperature only varies about six degrees on average. The daily cost per bedroom during the value season drops to $314.25 per night or $2,199.75 per week. This represents a true bargain.

Below is a video of the re-build of Esprit de la Mer after the hurricane. Phil is our certified drone pilot and published this video.