With 280 Oceanfront Residences, a 30,000-Square-Foot Destination Spa, and the First Caribbean Project by Michelin-Starred Chef Alain Ducasse, Vie L’Ven Is Redefining Luxury Living in the Heart of the Caribbean
An Elevated Escape on the Shores of Indigo Bay
In a region where turquoise seas, swaying palms, and sun-drenched shores are the norm, setting a new standard for luxury is no easy feat. But on the quiet southern coast of St. Maarten, the upcoming Vie L’Ven Resort & Residences is poised to do just that. Backed by Canadian father-son duo Zev and Mark Mandelbaum—visionaries behind Altree Developments and Lanterra Developments—this ambitious new development merges French elegance with Dutch ingenuity, mirroring the dual identity of the island it calls home.
Opening in late 2027, the Leading Hotels of the World property will rise along Indigo Bay with 280 expansive residences ranging from one to four bedrooms, marking the first ultra-luxury hospitality project on the island since the legendary La Samanna.
A Resort Where “Living Well” Is the Lifestyle
Vie L’Ven—meaning “life” and “living”—is more than a name. It’s the resort’s philosophy. Set against panoramic views of Indigo Bay and flanked by a protected nature reserve, the property’s layout embraces a rhythm of indulgence, reflection, and celebration. Three outdoor pools cater to every mood—family fun, adults-only serenity, and infinity-edge bliss at the spa—while private plunge pools, terraces, and curated gardens extend that tranquility into the residences themselves.
Each unit, beginning from the $900,000s, is outfitted with high-style furnishings, floor-to-ceiling views, and hand-finished design touches that blend tropical textures with European polish. Signature scalloped woodwork, custom leather-paneled minibars, and piped detailing provide a hint of nostalgia with contemporary flair.
Alain Ducasse Makes His Caribbean Debut
One of the most anticipated elements of the project? Its culinary program, led by none other than Chef Alain Ducasse. The French legend—who holds 21 Michelin stars globally—will launch his first-ever Caribbean dining concept exclusively at Vie L’Ven, ushering in a new era of gastronomy for St. Maarten.
“I wanted this restaurant to reflect the richness of the island’s culture and the abundance of its natural resources.” – Chef Alain Ducasse
His signature restaurant and bar will be joined by two additional on-site dining concepts: an all-day eatery and a beachfront café serving casual fare and craft cocktails. An on-site herb and produce garden will supply all three, reinforcing the resort’s dedication to sustainability and flavor.
A Destination Spa Like No Other in the Caribbean
If the culinary experience sets the tone, the spa at Vie L’Ven completes the picture. Spanning 30,000 square feet, it’s the largest of its kind in the Caribbean—and more sanctuary than spa. The space celebrates the healing spirit of water with a bio sauna, Finnish sauna, aroma steam room, thermal and vitality pools, cold plunges, and tropical showers. Treatments, powered by luxury skincare brands Biologique Recherche and The Tides, are highly personalized and rooted in science-backed protocols.
Outside, an immersive bathing garden overlooks Indigo Bay, offering guests a sensory journey inspired by ancient wellness traditions and the island’s natural rhythm. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the 24/7 oceanfront gym with personal training, yoga sessions in the nature reserve, and an outdoor movement terrace.
Concierge Living, Curated for the Global Jet Set
At Vie L’Ven, luxury isn’t confined to interiors and amenities—it’s a way of life. A Les Clefs d’Or concierge team is on hand 24/7 to cater to every detail, from yacht charters to reservations at St. Maarten’s most exclusive dining tables. Residents will enjoy perks like VIP airport transfers, valet parking, housekeeping, pet-friendly policies, a children’s playroom with childcare services, and on-site water sports instruction.
And when it’s time to explore beyond the bay, a private yacht dock and pier offer seamless access to nearby gems like St. Barths and Anguilla—just another element that transforms the development into a gateway, not just a getaway.
A Testament to Design, Heritage, and Community
Vie L’Ven brings together some of the brightest names in global design and architecture. Studio Munge—known for its work on Nobu Toronto and The Ritz-Carlton Residences South Beach—infuses the interiors with tactile richness and an emotionally resonant sense of place. HKS Architects, whose portfolio includes The Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch and the Shanghai West Bund Mandarin Oriental, bring their sustainable design ethos to the island, blending natural materials like wood, stone, and plaster with panoramic openness.
But what truly sets the project apart is its cultural fluency. Drawing inspiration from the French and Dutch influences that define St. Maarten, the resort is both cosmopolitan and deeply rooted in its surroundings. It’s the rare project that doesn’t just occupy space—but belongs to it.
A Defining Moment for St. Maarten Luxury Real Estate
For an island long known as a gateway to the Caribbean, Vie L’Ven signals a shift: St. Maarten is no longer just a stopover, but a destination in its own right. With its thoughtful mix of culinary mastery, wellness innovation, architectural vision, and Caribbean charm, the project is setting a new benchmark for luxury in the region.
As the global demand for high-end, culturally immersive destinations continues to grow, Vie L’Ven doesn’t just rise to the occasion—it leads the way.
