Necker Island: Caribbean Conviviality

“As our boat approaches Necker Island, the anticipation builds, the 45-minute journey from Tortola simply melts away and the palm-fringed, whiter-than-white sands and gorgeous collection of villas gives us just a hint of the exclusivity that awaits us.

At Necker’s highest point is The Great House, the magnificent centrepiece, with its incredible panoramas of the Caribbean Sea, the neighbouring isles and three further compounds – Bali Lo, Bali Hi and Temple House – home to a sublime mix of Balinese-style houses and rooms, each more beautiful than the last. Everything’s included, from gourmet meals to watersports. And, with a remarkably high staff to guest ratio, your needs are anticipated before you know it!

But it’s not just the luxurious amenities that make Necker Island so special – it’s the level of intimacy and authenticity: playful, without a sniff of pretence. Alongside just 10 other guests, we enjoyed a more accessible level of exclusivity which comes as part of Necker’s ‘Celebration Weeks’ where, from April to October, you can book individual rooms, rather than a buy-out of all 24 bedrooms.

The most surreal part of my stay? Sharing meals with Sir Richard Branson himself. From watching him play tennis with guests to engaging in fascinating conversations over breakfast, lunch and dinner, the opportunity to interact with the Virgin Group founder in such an informal environment was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

What particularly impressed me though was Necker’s commitment to sustainability. Running entirely on renewable energy and utilising solar panels and wind turbines, there are robust recycling programmes and water conservation measures in place, too.

And the diverse array of wildlife was an unexpected delight. It’s home to over 140 species of fauna, including flamingos, Aldabra giant tortoises, lemurs… Even a pair of baby kangaroos!

Moskito Island: The Branson Estate

Just a stone’s throw from Necker lies Moskito Island, home to The Branson Estate: three separate villas connected by wooden walkways accommodating up to 22 adults in 11 bedrooms.

Each villa – Headland House, Beach Villa and Mangrove Villa – has its own personality, having been designed by different members of the Branson family.

With personal pools, outdoor bathrooms, beach access, a communal recreation area and the ability to use the watersports facilities on neighbouring Necker, it’s luxury on another level.

Oil Nut Bay: Secluded Splendour

My next stop: the expansive Oil Nut Bay on Virgin Gorda. Like Necker and Moskito Islands, exclusivity is taken very seriously, to the point that you can only get here by boat, helicopter or private air charter.

This idyllic isolation, together with a superior range of accommodation – from one-bedroom deluxe suites to super-exclusive six-bedroom villas, makes it a favourite among celebrities seeking a discreet getaway. It’s all-American affluence with a distinctly Caribbean twist.

The Beach Club is home to a world-class restaurant, bar and multi-level pool that seems to cascade down the hill. There are tennis and pickleball courts, a wellness studio and spa; plus, for boat enthusiasts, an 88-slip marina that accommodates yachts up to 100 feet, and everything from Caribbean cuisine to tasty tapas and sublime sushi.

Rosewood Little Dix Bay: A Family Haven

A hit with multi-generational families and couples alike, my final port of call was Rosewood Little Dix Bay on Virgin Gorda. Unlike Necker and Moskito, it’s accessible by both road and boat for a bit more flexibility.

Rooms, suites and villas are all gorgeous, decked out in coastal-inspired décor: the Beach Houses and Villas particularly luxurious, with extras like individual pools and fully-equipped kitchens. But the real star of the show? The half-mile crescent beach – if you’re as lucky as me, you’ll be treated to sightings of reef sharks and turtles.

The Sense Spa deserves a special mention, its sea views providing a serene backdrop for relaxation; and there are tennis courts and a kids’ club for youngsters. And, from farm-to-table fare to tempting Caribbean tapas, the food is as plentiful as it is diverse.

A Taste of Local Flavour

While all these resorts offer the most exceptional dining establishments, I also enjoy venturing out to sample the local eateries. Despite the seeming isolation of these islands, there are plenty of excellent restaurants nearby. Coco Maya, a 10-minute drive from Little Dix Bay, was a stand out for me, with its fantastic Latin-Asian-fusion-inspired food, lively atmosphere and unmatched setting.

Final Impressions

My tour of the BVIs was a tapestry of standalone upscale experiences, all woven together by the common threads of unadulterated charm, impeccable service and memorable moments. From breakfasting with a billionaire to feeding lemurs and kangaroo-spotting on Necker Island; to the American-style opulence of Oil Nut Bay and the family friendliness of Little Dix Bay, each had its very own distinct Caribbean flavour.”