Looking for a luxurious escape this August? Well you’re in luck as there are some incredible hidden islands out there, many of which are perfect for that holiday escape you’ve been longing all year for. We round up five of our favourite island hideaways both in Europe and further afield, if you’re planning on something a little more exotic.
Senses Villa Ornos, Mykonos, Greece
A luxury five-bedroom villa located in the resort of Ornos in the south western corner of the Greek island of Mykonos, Senses Villa Ornos is perfect for enjoying a large group get-together. Much of your time here will be spent enjoying a dip in the private pool, soaking up the sun on the spacious surrounding terraces or enjoying the sights of the bay ahead of you. For the more active guest, there’s plenty of water sports on offer, while you can also explore further afield in Mykonos town, which is just a couple of miles away, or enjoy a boat trip out on the blue waters to Delos Island. There’s a host of beach bars and restaurants on Ornos Beach, or you can enjoy dinner prepared for you in the home with a private chef.
Capri Palace Hotel and Spa, Capri, Italy
The island of Capri, located off the coast from tourist havens such as Naples and the Amalfi Coast, is a captivating island, and there’s no better place to enjoy it than the Capri Palace Hotel and Spa. A five-star former Neapolitan palace dating back to 1700, the lavish interiors are just as impressive as the building itself. Capri Palace Hotel is home to the multi-award-winning Capri Beauty Farm, one of the world’s first recognised medical spas, and offers many physical therapies designed to ease your body’s tensions. Families are also welcome here, with a wealth of activities to enjoy, from swimming in the pool, taking boat trips around the island, shopping until you drop in Capri or heading to the beach to enjoy the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. The hotel is also home to three restaurants, ranging from casual to fine dining and include the only restaurant on Capri with two Michelin stars.
Hotel Signum, Salina, Italy
Hotel Signum is found on the isolated island of Salina, located off Sicily in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea. Much persuasion was needed to bring the Caruso’s boutique hotel to life, and now holidaymakers seeking an island getaway with a difference return to Hotel Signum time and time again. Understated yet breathtaking, you’ll never get enough of relaxing in the pool and looking out onto views of lemon trees, the blue seas and the neighbouring volcanic island of Stromboli. Hotel Signum is also home to the Aeolian Islands’ most exclusive spa, using geothermic water rich in minerals to refresh and rejuvenate, as well as many natural therapy techniques and the age-old tradition of thermal baths. Lunch and dinner can be enjoyed in the hotel or out on the terrace, all freshly prepared by owner Michele Caruso.
Cas Gasi, Ibiza, Spain
Tranquil gardens and groves of fruit and vegetables surround the small boutique hotel of Cas Gasi, located in the heart of Ibiza a few miles from the lively Ibiza town. Decorated in a traditional style with terracotta flooring and wooden beam ceilings, the hotel embraces the classic, laid-back Mediterranean style to perfection, with the restaurant also offering organic Mediterranean dishes made with ingredients either locally-sourced or grown onsite. While away the hours at the two outdoor pools, head to some of the nearby beaches or cruise in luxury on the hotel’s private yacht. For something more active, there are trails for walking, cycling and horse-riding, as well as a golf course and tennis courts nearby. For some much-needed pampering, the hotel has its own spa, complete with whirlpool and sauna.
Hotel Le Toiny, Saint Barthelemy
A volcanic island surrounded by shallow reefs, Saint Barths is a real paradise island and one of our favourites in the Caribbean. It’s also home to the luxury, refurbished gem that is Hotel Le Toiny, an exclusive collection of 15 luxury villa suites perfect for a romantic island getaway. Set amongst five acres of palm groves and looking out onto Toiny Beach (great for surfers), relaxing here is pure bliss, especially as each villa enjoys its own private pool. Unwind with a yoga or pilates session, or enjoy a massage at the Serenity Spa Cottage. Enjoy some shopping at the onsite boutique or head into Gustavia for a longer shopping session, and end the day at the Le Toiny Restaurant, where simple yet wonderful dishes are expertly crafted by Executive Chef Fabio.
