Welcome to French Leave!

Imagine…the old Bahamas.

The rich history, the colonial architecture, the long forgotten pineapple plantations, the unexpected beauty. Sun drenched, centuries old colonial homes and historic churches, many, well over 160 years old. Peaceful, quiet, secluded.

Imagine now…French Leave.

Idyllic. A less hectic world where less, is actually more. A boutique resort that will abound in luxurious amenities and service, while remaining respectful to the Bahamian culture, the sense of scale, the environment and, committed to developing the most sought after site in the Bahamas, the right way. Our architecture is not influenced by where we come from as developers; it’s influenced by what we found so charming on Eleuthera and, throughout the Bahamas. This is not another “billion dollar” mega resort catering to the mass market. No, this is something different. This is the start of something…old again.

And this is simply…French Leave.

French Leave History
French Leave Resort was originally acquired and named in 1938 by Count Alfred de Marigny of Mauritius (Indian Ocean). During 1943, while living in Nassau with his new bride Nancy Oakes, Count Alfred de Marigny was accused of murdering his famous father-in-law, Sir Harry Oakes. Although acquitted, he was immediately deported from the Bahamas. Unable to return to Eleuthera, he sold French Leave to Sir Roland T. Symonette, who later became the first Premier of the Bahamas. Under Sir Roland Symonette, the property was offered as a guesthouse with 10 rooms and cottages. The property was managed by ex-British Lieutenant Commander in the Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve, Christopher Pawley, known as "the Commander," along with his wife. In the late 1950's, French Leave was sold to an aspiring actor by the name of Craig Kelley and the first French Leave Hotel was built, operating until 1972. Soon thereafter in 1976, Club Med opened and for 23 years, thousands of visitors came from around the world each month to vacation on the famous "pink sand" beaches. Club Med closed in 1999.

When Alfred de Marigny first laid eyes on this land (as stated in his book "A Conspiracy of Crowns"), he knew immediately he would buy it. You can't imagine how he felt or how anyone could feel about French Leave until you can see it for yourself. French Leave is simply special. With over 265 acres of lush vegetation on one of the most beautiful pink sand beaches in the world, it is truly difficult to describe. With gentle ocean breezes and ideal weather year round, you can explore and find your own deserted beach and walk for miles. At night, without the glare of city lights, you'll see more stars in an evening than most people might see in a lifetime.

Remember, Eleuthera is not a place for the masses. In fact, they sell t-shirts on Eleuthera that state; "Eleuthera, it's not for everyone"! Eleuthera doesn't really lend itself to planning but you'll find the fishing, boating, sailing, diving, snorkeling, shell collecting and exploring are limitless. Most of all, the vast majority of people on Eleuthera, are some of the finest and most caring people you'll ever meet.

Visit French Leave, Eleuthera, and decide for yourself!