Girasol, the former Saint Barts retreat of Benjamin de Rothschild, was just sold for an undisclosed sum, though, the asking price at the time of the sale was $67 Million USD. The sale was announced just two months after Hurricane Irma stormed across the Island.
Sibarth Real Estate, Christie’s International Real Estate’s exclusive affiliate on the Island, held the prestigious listing. Girasol first made it’s way onto the international market in February with a sale closing in November. Hurricane Irma hit the island on September 6th, and left St Barts as one of the most impacted islands across the Caribbean.
“The structures on the estate weathered the storm,” says Christian Wattiau, Managing Partner of Sibarth Real Estate. “The new buyer visited Girasol after it passed through and was pleased to proceed with the sale, a strong show of confidence in the enduring appeal of St. Barth’s as a destination market to purchase real estate.”
The Girasol Estate was originally designed and constructed by Benjamin de Rothschild, a financier and prominent member of the Rothschild Banking dynasty. Most recently the property has undergone massive improvements by macro-investor, Bruce Kovner. Spread across over seven acres, Girasol offers a resort like atmosphere with six bedrooms contained within two villas, an opulent pool, personal office, gym, and over 500 feet of beachfront.
“Hurricane Irma was a force to be reckoned with,” says Rick Moeser, Executive Director of Christie’s International Real Estate. “But even that historic storm couldn’t dampen the resolve of the island’s citizens and of international buyers looking to live among the splendor of St. Barth’s. While there is still work to be done, the island will recover and is already recovering, as evidenced by this significant sale.”
Featuring forever views of the majestic Atlantic Ocean, Girasol is situated on Marigot Beach within an area that’s waters are classified as a protected preserve, and include a quintessential 1.2 acre coconut grove.
Image courtesy of: Christie’s International Real Estate
