Experience a room with a view at Martinique’s new Sable Bleu Boutique Hotel
IAN STALKER
New Martinique hotel Sable Bleu Boutique Hotel notes that its name and its location go hand in hand. The name of the just-opened property translates as Blue Sand, a fitting moniker as the hotel is literally just across the street from the Caribbean Sea and guests can easily head for sand beaches.
And says Fabrice Belliard, president of the Sable Bleu — the first four-star hotel in the ocean-fronting community of Le Marin — the property will easily accommodate those seeking a stress-free stay on the tropical island.
“The hotel experience was designed to offer a peaceful cocoon in a place where relaxation is the key word,” Belliard says. “It features a calm atmosphere and setting to regenerate your batteries — infinity lounge pool on the rooftop, high-quality bedding, spa-like bathroom experience with a seating area under the rain shower in Superior and Premium rooms, etc. Your mind is traveling on a cultural journey through a collection of art pieces positioned through the hotel, taking in the majestic sea view, etc. — your palate is embracing the innovative yet locally anchored cuisine and drinks.
“The hotel’s modern architecture is merged into its environment, featuring louvers, ceiling to floor windows, etc. The natural sunlight is a central element, traversing the floors from the iconic glass ceiling area to the warm patio. Sable Bleu Boutique Hotel decor is developed around pure lines, transparency, nature, and noble materials, including some pieces of furniture designed for the hotel. Artistic and warm touches of colours at the reception area, in the stairs, the patio, and above the beds in the rooms complete the creativity essence of the property.”
Le Marin encompasses an area about half the size of Manhattan, and opportunities to acquire land are often difficult. But Belliard notes that the four-star hotel has a privileged location, particularly when courting yachting enthusiasts, given it is literally right across the street from the largest marina in the Lesser Antilles, with that facility able to accommodate over 800 boats. Le Marin is a bustling city, and the main administrative centre for the southern part of Martinique.
“The yachting clientele is one of our main target markets,” says Belliard. “For instance, Le Marin is one of the main gateways to the Grenadines, therefore, international visitors transit through Le Marin, on pre-cruises and post-cruises, looking for accommodation nearby. Now Sable Bleu Boutique Hotel offers a unique 4-star option for a boutique hotel located steps from the marina, with no need for transportation or a transfer, just a quick walk from the hotel and the departing guests can board their boats.”
Belliard praises Sable Bleu as a hotel concept “combining modern comfort, sleek design, a unique cultural trail, entitled: Whisper of Caribbean Art, technology incorporated into the client’s stay for a modern practical experience — guest concierge online, keyless door opening with the guest’s smartphone, etc. Sable Bleu brings calm, enticing curiosity and offers a secluded experience, a source of pleasant and memorable moments in a unique setting.”
The Le Marin town centre is seen as picturesque and ideal for a nice walk and the 18th-century Classified Church — a historical monument — is nearby, while a colourful and animated market is just steps away.
Also close by are watersports activities at the marina, ecotours, a botanical park, mangrove sailing and hiking. “Sable Bleu is a door open on a Martinique discovery, an encounter with the culture, the traditions, the way of life,” Belliard adds.
Also found nearby is a company that offers lessons on handling a yole, a boat unique to Martinique that has received weighty recognition. “The baby yoles classes offer an opportunity to experience a strong Martinican tradition. Our guests, in search of Martinique’s essence, and fond of sailing, and embracing outdoor activities will be able to embark on an historical, spectator yet sporty boat ride. The yole was officially added to the UNESCO World Heritage list on December 17, 2020,” Belliard continues.
