La Samanna sits on Baie Longue, a long crescent of sand on the quiet western end of the French side, and has been the island's benchmark for luxury for around fifty years. The Belmond website lists a range from deluxe ocean view rooms and one-bedroom suites to two-bedroom suites, three-bedroom beachfront cottages and signature villas with private infinity pools. Its pool villas were redesigned under Rottet Studio and re-launched in November 2023, with new art, fabrics, terraces and kitchens. The resort is large and spread over the hillside, so expect a golf-cart-and-stairs rhythm rather than a single tower. It is the right base for travelers who value privacy, service and a proper beach over proximity to nightlife.
Location and getting around: Baie Longue is in the Terres Basses area on the western side of the island, away from the main resort strips, which makes it peaceful but means you will usually take a taxi or rental car for dinner in Grand Case or Marigot. It is a convenient distance from the airport side of the island, so arrival transfers are short. Villa guests are offered airport transfers and golf cart transport around the resort.
The rooms and the feel: the room types range from intimate ocean view rooms with terraces to specialty suites with private terraces overlooking the bay, Provencal-styled two-bedroom suites and cottages directly on the beach, which suit groups and families. The villas at the top of the range add private infinity pools and panoramic terraces on the cliff. The tone is polished but relaxed, with a French-Caribbean sensibility.
Good to know: this is a high-end property, so prices rise sharply in the winter peak and holiday weeks, and shoulder seasons give better value. Check the resort for current restaurant, spa and activity details because services can change. It suits honeymooners, anniversaries, multigenerational groups in a cottage or villa, and anyone who wants quiet. If you want nightlife on your doorstep or a budget-friendly stay, choose another base.
Why stay here
- ✓Beachfront on Baie Longue
- ✓Suites, cottages and pool villas
- ✓Private infinity pools in villas
- ✓Spa and wellness
- ✓Restaurants and bars
- ✓Airport transfers for villa guests
- ✓Golf cart transport for villa guests
- ✓Renovated pool villas (2023)
Good questions
Is La Samanna open?+
Yes. The Belmond site is taking bookings, and the resort reopened after renovating its pool villas in November 2023. Check the website for the latest restaurant and spa details.
What room types are there?+
Belmond lists deluxe ocean view rooms, suites, two-bedroom suites, three-bedroom beachfront cottages, specialty suites and signature villas with private infinity pools.
Is it suitable for families?+
Yes, especially the cottages and two-bedroom suites, which offer space and beach access. Check the resort for children's activity details.