Welcome to the next instalment of our Lesser Known Islands series where we showcase Caribbean islands you may be less familiar with. We highlight why they're worth visiting and the incredible properties we have there. This week we're exploring the British Virgin Islands where we have featured some properties that are also perfect if you're looking for island buyouts!
Why the British Virgin Islands?
Sapphire waters lap against powder white beaches, tropical vegetation sways in the gentle breeze and sunsets like no other paint the skies - this is the British Virgin Islands. As the name suggests, these islands are a British overseas territory, comprising of 4 main islands and a collection of smaller islands and islets. Located in the north-eastern Caribbean, to the east of Puerto Rico, the British Virgin Islands are best known as "the sailing capital of the Caribbean" and for the island's reef-lined beaches'. For those that can tear themselves away from these breath-taking beaches, there is an endless source of adventure with a variety of low mountains, lagoons with coral reefs and landlocked harbours to explore.
Tortola, the largest island, houses the capital of the British Virgin Islands, Road Town, and rainforest-filled Sage Mountain National Park. On Virgin Gorda island is the Baths, a geological wonder of beachside granite boulders that form sheltered sea pools.
Where to stay?
Guana Island
"The Caribbean before it went public." Guana remains the most unspoiled jewel of the British Virgin Islands. Guests can experience 850 acres, seven beaches, mountains, gardens, an organic orchard, dozens of hiking trails, and even a flock of flamingos that live on the island! In this dream-like setting, guests will also find first-class dining, accommodations, and low-key luxury that has been perfected through nearly a century of family stewardship.
Just 35 guests can stay on the island, spread across 18 unique rooms and villas that are sprinkled along the scenic ridge. There isn't a single commercial facility on the island - only registered guests are permitted, providing absolute privacy.
Moskito Island
The newest and one of the most exclusive private islands in the world. Sprawled across 125 acres, The Branson Estate on Moskito Island offers a one-of-a-kind experience in the most secluded unspoiled setting in the British Virgin Islands. Perched on a dramatic outcrop at the northeast tip of the island is The Branson Estate. Made up of three spectacular standalone villas and conveniently located next to the island’s communal recreational facilities, it sleeps a total of 22 guests. Positioned in an enviable setting the villas maximise the stunning sea views and are cleverly connected by elevated wooden walkways. This estate even has its own private beach – the epitome of barefoot luxury living.
Necker Island
Necker Island, designed by Sir Richard Branson, is a private island paradise in the British Virgin Islands - a 74 acre stunning and unspoilt oasis. Necker Island paddles in turquoise waters surrounded by coral reefs and fringed with the British Virgin Islands iconic white sandy beaches. Necker Island is the perfect playground to explore both on land and on water, for adults and children alike.
Guests can spend their time relaxing in the infinity pool or trying some of the endless activities. Follow beautiful trails looking for the array of wildlife that lives here - guests can even get involved with feeding them! There are lemurs, flamingos, scarlet ibis, giant tortoises, iguanas and so much more.
Rosewood Little Dix Bay
Rosewood Little Dix Bay offers a level of refinement, seclusion and untamed beauty unrivalled in the Caribbean. Surrounded by the natural wilderness of Virgin Gorda, Rosewood Little Dix Bay is on one of the Caribbean’s finest shorelines—a half-mile crescent beach of powder-white sand beyond a colourful barrier reef that is considered to be one of world’s finest. This location combined with delectable dining options including Caribbean tapas, flavourful farm-to-table creations, and wholesome slow food. This resort also has a spa set high on a bluff, offering intoxicating beauty and panoramic sea views, capturing the essence of relaxation and renewal.
