THE FACTS ABOUT BEACH HOUSE

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Built in the 1940s by the 'spirited' first mayor of St Barths as a beachfront bolthole for his celebrity friends, Eden Rock was a second home to Howard Hughes, Greta Garbo and Robert Mitchum. Today the hotel is as glamorous and whimsical as ever, and continues to evolve. It has just launched the very private Villa Nina and plans to launch Villa Rockstar in January 2009. Nina comes with its own art gallery, cinema, two pools, a Mini Cooper for exploring, a butler and a Valcucine kitchen where executive chef Jean-Claude Dufour can prepare dinner for you. ITC Classics (01244 355527; www.itcclassics.co.uk) offers seven nights' bed and breakfast at Villa Nina, Eden Rock, including return flights from London to Antigua, from £2,090 SEE CNTRAVELLER.COM'S GUIDE TO ST BARTHS HERE