Villa Mirage

Big gatherings come naturally to Villa Mirage, set among other villas on the upper slopes above Saint-Jean. The panorama sweeps across the bay to the hotel on its rocky point, with the reef beyond the beach. Anchored boats and offshore islands sit beyond the red roofed village and hills. If your group wants a big villa in Saint-Jean, St Barts with a fire pit and an outdoor kitchen, read on.

The contemporary tropical villa has gray shingle hip roofs set in a zigzag row over dark timber slat ceilings. Steel pergolas and glass balustrades top stone clad pool walls. Wide gray wood decks step down several levels. Inside, the mood is rich. Pale wood vaulted ceilings rise over gray stone and dark wood paneling, with crystal chandeliers and big sectional sofas. The showpiece kitchen centers on a black and stainless range style island with leather stools. Behind the dining table for 10, a glass walled wine room shows off the bottles.

The heated infinity pool is lined in green stone, with loungers on the deck. A sunken round lounge gathers around a fire pit table facing the bay. The outdoor kitchen has large grills and bar seating. A long dining table sits under a timber pergola, with daybeds and umbrellas close by. There is also a tropical courtyard with a reflecting pool, and zen gardens. A gym rounds out the extras.

There are five bedrooms for up to 10 guests, all with king beds and private bathrooms. Several look at the bay through glass. The rooms are dressed in gray and white with coral or blue accents, and some have four poster or canopy beds. Bathrooms are finished in dark stone with double vanities. One rain shower has a big window framing the bay, and some bathrooms open through glass doors to private garden patios. The villa is adapted for guests with disabilities. It also has a washer and dryer, along with a safe and satellite TV.

Saint-Jean is where the north coast comes alive, with beach clubs and boutiques along the sand. When you want the same area without the same floor plan, try Villa Topaze and a glass-sided pool cantilevered over the lawn.

Villa Mirage fits families or groups of up to 10 who love to host. Plan at least one night around the fire pit at this villa in Saint-Jean, St Barts, with the lights of the bay spread out below.