Villa Sillage

With a coral red roof and yellow clapboard walls, Villa Sillage looks like a classic Creole cottage. White gingerbread trim lines the eaves, and louvered shutters open onto a wraparound veranda. The cottage clings to a steep slope far above the west coast. Below, yachts lie at anchor near the islets, and the sun sets straight over the water. This charming villa in Colombier, St Barts is made for a couple or a small family.

Inside, white walls and ceilings keep the rooms feeling cool. Ceiling fans help, as do the pale stone tile floors. A gray sofa and a wood coffee table furnish the living room. The white kitchen includes dining for six.

The small rectangular pool has an infinity edge and sits on a deck facing the sea. Cushioned day beds and loungers line it, shaded by white sail shades. A poolside outdoor shower rinses off the salt. On the covered veranda, a dining table looks straight out to sea, and it is the best seat for sunset. Through the lush garden, paths lead to a shingle roofed gazebo with round rattan seating. Grilling happens on the BBQ.

Each of the two bedrooms has a king bed. The beds have wood frames, and art and large TVs complete the rooms. Bathrooms have stone tiles, stone vanities with vessel sinks and walk in showers. One extra treat is an open air stone bathroom with its own vessel sink, where you can wash under the sky.

Colombier is the north west tip of the island, a rugged headland above Colombier beach. That beach is reached on foot or by boat, which keeps it quiet. Remote and scenic, the area draws people for its evening light. If privacy is the priority, Villa Fontaine nearby centers on a long infinity pool facing a beach bay and islets.

Pick it if you value charm over size. Drinks on the veranda at sunset become a nightly habit at this villa in Colombier, St Barts.