Cottages de Lonvilliers — Quiet Retreat Above Anse Marcel Bay
Affordable cottage-style accommodation in the green hills near Grand Case.
Why Go
Anse Marcel's northern coastline is one of the most sheltered spots on St. Martin — a deep horseshoe bay ringed by green hills that block the wind and create a natural harbor. Cottages de Lonvilliers sits in the elevated terrain above this bay, offering simple cottage accommodation that trades resort polish for genuine Caribbean tranquility at a price that leaves room for the restaurant meals that this region is famous for.
The Experience
The cottage format delivers what its name promises: small, self-contained units with kitchenettes, air conditioning, private bathrooms, and terraces or outdoor space. The green, elevated setting provides views and a residential calm that the beachfront properties below can't match. Free parking means your rental car sits outside your door rather than in a garage three floors down. The Anse Marcel location puts two of the French side's strongest attractions within easy reach. Below, Anse Marcel Beach and its marina offer calm water for kayaking and swimming in one of the island's most protected bays. The National Nature Reserve of St. Martin surrounds the area, and The Trail hiking path starts nearby, winding through dry coastal forest with views that earned the region protected status. Ristorante Del Arti handles Italian dining in the Anse Marcel area. Grand Case's legendary restaurant boulevard — the gastronomic capital of the Caribbean — sits just over the hill, approximately 10 minutes by car.
What to Try
Hike The Trail through the nature reserve in the morning when birdsong and cool temperatures make the walk enjoyable. Kayak or paddleboard in Anse Marcel's flat bay waters. Drive to Grand Case for the evening restaurant stroll along the boulevard.
Insider Tip
Cottages de Lonvilliers' elevated position catches breezes that the bay-level properties miss. On still nights when Anse Marcel Beach gets humid, the cottage hillside stays comfortable — some returning guests skip the AC entirely and sleep with windows open to the trade winds.
The Practical Stuff
Located in the Anse Marcel hills near Grand Case, French side. Moderate pricing ($$). Cottage-style units with kitchenettes, AC, and outdoor space. Free parking. Near Anse Marcel Beach and marina. Nature reserve trails nearby. Grand Case restaurants 10 minutes. Airport approximately 25 minutes. Car recommended.
Pair It With
- The Trail Guide — Nature reserve hiking path starting near the cottages through protected forest
- Ristorante Del Arti Guide — Italian dining in Anse Marcel for evenings when you don't want to drive to Grand Case