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Exclusive Island Resorts
Trying to find the perfect location for a secluded luxury vacation? Have you considered a private island? Here is a list of some exclusive island resorts in destinations around the world:
Africa
North Island – Seychelles
This 3 kilometer long island serves as a nature sanctuary for endangered indigenous plants and wildlife. Tucked amongst the native trees are 11 large and luxurious villas constructed from local reclaimed wood. The style is rustic, with rough-hewn granite, large pebbles, and thatched roofs throughout. You will not be without modern amenities, though, as all of the villas offer air conditioning.
The Americas
Inn at Cuckolds Lighthouse – Maine, U.S.A.
This two bedroom bed-and-breakfast is housed in a restored 1892 lighthouse. Located at the mouth of Boothbay Harbor, the island is a half mile offshore from Southport Island. Completely updated, this old lighthouse is the epitome of modern comfort and luxury. Meals include daily breakfast around the farmhouse table and afternoon high tea with port and cheese. To pass the time, guests can fly kites, go kayaking, explore the surrounding coves, or relax in an Adirondack chair watching the waves lap and schooners drift by.
Web: www.innatcuckoldslighthouse.com
Isleta El Espino – Nicaragua
This luxe eco-lodge is located on Lake Nicaragua, and is only a 10 minute boat ride from the colonial town of Granada. The sustainable hotel is best described as bohemian with an industrial twist. It generates electricity from solar panels and filters water straight from the lake. There is no shortage of comfort in the three rooms, though. They are adorned with concrete floors, earthenware tiles, and hand-carved furniture. Enjoy quality meals prepared by the chef from local fruits and vegetables. For activities, yoga is offered every morning on the deck, or you can round out your evenings with cocktails by the pool.
Asia
Amanpulo – Philippines
The Amanpulo is located on the remote island of Pamalican – one of the smaller Cuyo islands in the Sulu Sea. The setting is ideal; white sandy beaches fringed by palm trees and surrounded by emerald seas. To get to the island, guests must take a private plane from Manila. The hotel itself is comprised of 40 detached casitas whose design is based on traditional Filipino houses. A new spa was opened recently and offers a multitude of services. The real attraction, though, is diving off the surrounding coral reef.
Web: www.amanresorts.com
Pulau Joyo – Indonesia
With an abundance of islands to choose from throughout the archipelago of Indonesia, Pulau Joyo may be the most charming. Antony Marden, a Hong Kong-based shipping magnate, designed this retreat as a family vacation house. Luckily for you, he opened the doors to the public in 2011. There are six houses filled with comfortable and refined furnishings, and even two smaller houses for extra guests or children. An on-site chef prepares authentic Indonesian dishes, like chili crab and satay, and meals are always served in a different location. To keep busy, guests can paddleboard, swim, kayak, frolic on the sandy beaches, or charter the resident 140ft boat for a fishing trip.
Web: www.pulau-joyo.com
Caribbean
Peter Island Resort & Spa – British Virgin Islands
When you imagine a private tropical island resort, Peter Island is really what comes to mind. Located south of Tortola, this is the largest private island in the area. It is even rumored to be the setting of the novel Treasure Island. There are a total of 32 rooms, 20 junior suites, and three villas available for rent. Or you could rent the entire complex for yourself, which is what footballer Rio Ferdinand did for his 2009 wedding.
Web: www.peterisland.com
Europe
Private Island Retreat – Greece
Located 45 minutes from Athens by boat, this summer house is situated at the beginning of the Cycladic islands. The small island is populated by olive trees and scented wild thyme along with small sheltered beaches. The villa itself was built in a neo-classical style and has belonged to the same Greek family for several generations. There are six available bedrooms just steps away from a bay great for swimming. An organic garden is accessible for fresh fruit, vegetables, and eggs. A private chef can also be arranged.
Middle East
Zaya Nurai Island – Abu Dhabi
High style and top notch amenities can be found at this offshore island. Entrpreneur Nadia Zaal has invested time and attention to creating a sophisticated haven. There are 32 Asian-inspired beach villas each equipped with outdoor terraces, infinity pools, and views of the sea. Recently a full service spa and five restaurants have opened as well. Transport is available by speedboat or helicopter.
Inn at Cuckold’s Lighthouse Photo credit: lcm1863 via Visualhunt / CC BY-ND
Peter Island Photo credit: Vin Crosbie via Visualhunt.com / CC BY-ND
