Advisors Notebook: Inside Belmond’s Caribbean Icons — La Samanna & Cap Juluca
- willwebb35
- Oct 15
- 4 min read
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Through our ongoing connections with partners like Belmond, we gain insights that elevate our knowledge of our favorite Caribbean destinations. In our Advisors Notebook session, where we share insights from our webinars and in-person meetings, we highlight some of the insights, Julie Owens, Global Sales Belmond Hotels, shared on what makes La Samanna, A Belmond Hotel and Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel, two of the Caribbean’s most timeless escapes.
La Samanna, a Belmond Hotel: French Elegance Meets Caribbean Charm
A crown jewel among Luxury Hotels in St. Martin, La Samanna, A Belmond Hotel is a blend of French sophistication and island serenity. First opened in the 1950s, this storied hideaway remains the benchmark for refined Caribbean luxury.
Lifestyle & Atmosphere
Set on the French side of St. Martin, Belmond La Samanna feels like the French Riviera reborn in the tropics. Guests wake to sweeping views over Baie Longue, sip rare vintages in the Caribbean’s only wine cave, and explore the island’s chic beach clubs and vibrant dining scene. It’s perfect for travelers seeking activity, culture, and refined leisure.
“La Samanna has the heart of the Caribbean—it was the place to go in the 50s and 60s, and it still has that French-Caribbean glamour today.”
Rooms & Villas
The resort’s collection of rooms and villas has been thoughtfully redesigned in breezy Caribbean tones. Options range from elegant ocean-view suites to three- and four-bedroom cliffside villas with private pools. Families can opt for beachfront accommodations with direct access to the sand—ideal for easy island living.
Dining
Food lovers will adore La Samanna’s dining experiences, from the refined French-Caribbean menu at Laplaj to the lobster roll beach cart serving fresh bites to your lounger. The Lacan wine cave—the only one in the Caribbean—offers private tastings and dinners for up to ten guests.
Wellness & Activities
Relax at the tropical spa with chakra healing and meditation, or stay active with tennis, pickleball, paddleboard yoga, and island excursions. Guests can also discover St. Martin’s cultural treasures—from gourmet French bistros to scenic hiking and zip-lining.
Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel: Barefoot Luxury in Anguilla
“At Cap Juluca, every single room is oceanfront—30 seconds from feet in the sand to your room.”
For those seeking tranquility, Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel is the epitome of Luxury Caribbean style. Nestled on Anguilla’s most celebrated beach, this Belmond Hotels & Resorts icon combines Moorish architecture with effortless barefoot elegance.
Lifestyle & Atmosphere
Every moment at Belmond Cap Juluca is infused with serenity. Every room is oceanfront—just 30 seconds from sand to suite. Days flow from yoga sessions and sea swims to champagne sabering at sunset.
Rooms & Villas
Each accommodation is designed for panoramic sea views and open-air living. The Jonquil Suite—Cap Juluca’s signature villa—features a private pool and multiple dining terraces, perfect for families or special celebrations.
Dining
As one of Anguilla’s top luxury hotels, Cap Juluca delights food enthusiasts. Dine over the waves at Pimm’s, savor Peruvian flavors at Uchu, or unwind at the reimagined Cap Shack for live music, seafood, and sunset cocktails.
Wellness & Activities
The Guerlain Spa—the only one of its kind in the Caribbean—is a destination in itself, featuring eight treatment rooms, a sea-view infinity pool, and a new nature trail. Activities include horseback riding on the beach, yoga, biking, fishing, and family-friendly programs.
“Cap Juluca now has the only Guerlain Spa in the Caribbean. When I say heaven, I mean, it truly is one of the most incredible spa destinations.”
Getting There
Travel to Anguilla is easier than ever. Seasonal direct flights from Newark, Boston, and Baltimore/DC (via Bermuda Air/Anguilla Air) operate from December through May. Alternatively, guests can fly into St. Martin and take a short 30–40-minute boat ride across the turquoise waters to Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel. A third route is also available via San Juan Puerto Rico. Book your favorite air carrier and connect to Anguilla, via Tradewinds. The advantage with the San Juan route, is upon the return, you go through US Customs in Puerto Rico, a smaller hub, vs. a larger hub like JFK or Newark.
Choosing Your Belmond Caribbean Escape
La Samanna (St. Martin): Perfect for travelers seeking French-Caribbean elegance, fine dining, and adventure.
Cap Juluca (Anguilla): Best for relaxation, wellness, and pristine beachfront luxury.
"Many travelers combine both for the ultimate Luxury Caribbean getaway—start with the lively sophistication of La Samanna and unwind at the tranquil Cap Juluca."
Why Book with Elli Travel Group | Belmond Bellini Member
Elli Travel Group is proud to be a member of the Belmond Bellini Club, Belmond’s invitation-only program for top luxury travel advisors. Through this partnership, our clients receive exclusive amenities — including daily breakfast, resort credits, VIP recognition, and access to special experiences — all at the same published rates found online.
Our direct relationship with Belmond’s management teams ensures that every client stay feels personal and elevated. From a guaranteed warm welcome to thoughtful touches arranged behind the scenes, Bellini Club benefits add genuine value to every booking at Belmond properties worldwide.
FAQ: Belmond Caribbean Travel
Q: Are beachfront villas available at La Samanna during festive season?
A: Yes. Both beachfront and cliffside villas are available with flexible minimum stay requirements.
Q: When do the new direct flights to Anguilla operate?
A: Flights from Newark, Boston, and Baltimore/DC operate mid-December through May.
Q: Is private boat check-in from St. Martin to Anguilla available?
A: Not currently, though Belmond is exploring streamlined customs solutions.
Q: What makes Cap Juluca unique among Anguilla’s luxury hotels?
A: Its mile-long private beach, Moorish design, and long-serving staff create a truly authentic Belmond Hotels & Resorts experience.
Whether you crave French-Caribbean sophistication or barefoot Anguillian serenity, Belmond’s La Samanna and Cap Juluca promise two unforgettable ways to experience the very best of Caribbean luxury.
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