Our nine-villa tour also included visits to a selection of smaller, more affordable (by St. Barth standards) homes for rent, including a one-bedroom hideaway that would be perfect for honeymooners. The hilltop love nest, Diaco, in Vitet, has panoramic views, a private pool, and a simple, modern decor. Rates: $3,500/week in high season. ('99-'00)

Even in the low season, villas on St. Barth command about $1,000 a week, as does a cottage at Village St. Jean. Rates at hotels are higher. The following St. Barth Great Escapes offer the choice of hillside cottages, hotel rooms, or villa-like suites. Here's a brief sketch of each:

Fall/Winter 1999