While we may be confined to our homes with holidays put on hold, that’s no reason to stop planning a future escape. We’re all in need of something to look forward to, and with an amazing choice of resorts awaiting, there’s no better time to start thinking ahead.
When it comes to dreaming about travel, there’s no denying that a remote island escape is a luxury like no other. So although we’ve spent months in lockdown, we wouldn’t say no to seclusion in paradise. With that in mind, we’ve put together some of the very best options for a five-star island retreat. With each delivering on privacy, it’s time to dream about some blissful beachside R&R.
Bawah Reserve, Indonesia
Bawah Reserve has made a name for itself in the luxury travel sector, and it’s easy to see why. Hidden in the untouched Anambas Archipelago, Bawah Reserve fully embraces barefoot luxury and is the ultimate choice for an off-grid island escape.
Set across six tropical islets, eco-friendly Bawah Reserve currently offers a choice of 35 villas and is set to open the ultra-exclusive Elang island later this year. While the main resort definitely delivers on privacy, Elang is for those who want to take it to the next level. With six brand new cliffside lodges on offer – and the option to book the entire island – luxurious Elang is a must if you want your very own slice of heaven.
Kandolhu, Maldives
For Maldivian hospitality at its finest, Kandolhu certainly lives up to expectations. This tiny island resort is a mere 70 kilometres from Malé yet provides a pristine and peaceful setting that feels a world away. It goes without saying that Kandolhu is surrounded by white sand beaches and turquoise waters, but it is also home to one of the most colourful and lively reefs in the Maldives, making it an oasis for ocean lovers.
Thanks to its size, this island is naturally private – but it still has so much to offer. Five à la carte restaurants are a highlight here – one of which has just six seats, so you’re guaranteed an exclusive experience.
Amanpulo, Philippines
Just an hour from Manila, Amanpulo is a haven in the middle of the Sulu Sea. As an exclusive island resort, Amanpulo is accessible only by private plane and offers a luxurious, back-to-nature hideaway for its guests.
With a choice of casitas and villas – and private buggies to explore the island independently – this stylish retreat is the ultimate tropical paradise. Opt for one of Amanpulo’s villas for utmost privacy – here you’ll find a choice of one to four bedroom villas, each complete with a private pool, lounge and dining areas, as well as first-class chef and butler services.
Jumby Bay Island, Antigua
Known as one of the most desirable private beach resorts in the Caribbean, Jumby Bay Island is a real paradise treat. Fringed by coral reefs and reachable only by yacht, this private isle promises secluded island luxury.
Surrounded by lush tropical foliage, Jumby Bay Island spans 300 hidden acres and is home to four miles of pristine shoreline. Following top-to-toe renovation, this exclusive private resort features 40 tastefully decorated rooms and suites, luxury villas and sprawling estate homes – all just steps from the island’s spectacular white beaches.
Moskito Island, British Virgin Islands
Don’t let the name put you off because Richard Branson’s Moskito Island is a one-of-a-kind, private paradise. Situated in the beautiful and unspoilt British Virgin Islands, Moskito Island goes far beyond conventional villa rental, with exceptional personal service in a secluded five-star setting.
Inspired by nearby Necker Island, Moskito Island comprises three villas, luxury entertainment and living spaces, which are all available for exclusive use. With the option to rent while the Bransons aren’t at home, this luxurious estate delivers total privacy alongside all the amenities you’d expect from a world-class resort.
Six Senses, Fiji
Located on the tropical, volcanic island of Malolo, Six Senses Fiji is comprised of 24 spacious pool villas and 60 residential villas – each offering privacy, seclusion and luxury for those looking to escape it all.
In the middle of the South Pacific you are of course guaranteed island bliss but, with Six Senses Fiji, you can add strong eco ethics to the mix, too. As the first 100% solar powered hotel of its kind in Fiji, this is an idyllic island resort that gives something a little extra – perfect if you’re after a planet friendly island escape.
Ile des Deux Cocos, Mauritius
Ile des Deux Cocos is one of Mauritius’s best kept secrets. Built over a century ago by flamboyant British governor Sir Hesketh Bell, Ile des Deux Cocos has a distinctly eccentric charm and promises a one-of-a-kind Indian Ocean escape.
Located off the south-east coast of Mauritius, this heavenly island retreat has just the one 252-square-metre villa which can be exclusively reserved for overnight stays for couples or families of four. Thanks to this privacy and the exceptionally high standards of service, you can definitely live out your castaway fantasies here.
