The aptly named La Bella Casa is an exquisite and exclusive estate on the western peninsula of St Martin. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens and sprawling lawns, this stunning villa is nestled amongst the countryside on the edge of Grand Etang pond, with gorgeous views over Baie Longue Beach. La Bella Casa is ideally located just a few minutes’ drive from the popular gourmet restaurants of Baie Nettle and the French capital of Marigot - with its shops, markets, eateries and galleries - is just eight minutes away, while the international airport of Princess Juliana (SXM) is a 10-minute drive.

The nine-bedroom home is a wonderful retreat for large groups or family get-togethers in beautiful surroundings, just outside Les Terres Basses. While the villa is spacious, it has a cosy and intimate ambience with an exotic blend of Indonesian and French-inspired decor.

There are seven ensuite bedrooms in the main house; each with its own private outdoor seating area with garden or ocean views, and many with grand four-poster beds creating a romantic and opulent atmosphere. Several of the rooms have walk-in showers boasting views over the landscaped gardens or across the water, and the bathrooms are finished with traditional Provençal tiles. One of the suites, situated on the lower level, offers a quiet oasis with its own large terrace and seating areas both indoors and out. Two bedrooms are located in a private, self-contained cottage neighbouring the main villa and boasting its own pool. While another private cottage features two stylish ocean-view bedrooms. A studio apartment, located below the main house, features a bedroom with a queen-size bed, a private living area and a kitchenette.

Inside, there’s an elegant great room which is ideal for socialising with sliding glass pocket doors that open fully onto the outside space, making the most of the beautiful views and cool ocean breezes. The living room is finished with contemporary furniture inspired by the colours of the ocean, while a pretty French country-style kitchen is also finished with blue and white Provençal tiles, in keeping with the classic style that runs through the whole home.

Neutral tones and hues run throughout the villa, with each room brought to life with vibrant pops of colour. Exterior terraces and covered verandas - arranged around a large pool that sparkles in the sun - offer an abundance of outdoor space so guests can relax, dine and entertain. There’s a barbecue for al fresco grilling, a ping pong table under the veranda for fun table tennis tournaments, and a fitness room for early-morning workouts. The vistas really come to life at cocktail hour, when the sinking sun paints the skies with hot pinks and burnt oranges; a stunning view to be enjoyed from the comfort of your own terrace at La Bella Casa.