A quarter of an hour by boat from the small port of Limerick Bay on the island of Virgin Gorda, in the British Virgin Islands, is Necker Island, Sir Richard Branson’s private island paradise. Overlooking the deep blue waters of the Caribbean the 74 acre island sits surrounded by coral reefs and beautiful pristine white sandy beaches. The Island epitomizes the elegant lifestyle of the rich and famous.
When the owner is away, Necker Island can be rented exclusively for up to 28 people. Wealthy businessmen invite their friends for a birthday, wedding, the great escape away from Wall Street. On the visitors’ book: Lady Di was there twice with her children William and Harry. Later, drummer Roger Taylor of Queen, Melanie from the Spice Girls and others like Harrison Ford, Steven Spielberg, Robert de Niro, Mel Gibson, Rosanna Arquette, Bryan Ferry, Annie Lennox or George Michael. They all stayed in the Master Suite with the pool on the terrace, an entire apartment rather than just a room.
If you’re not looking to rent the entire Island, you can still enjoy the unique Necker Island experience during Celebration Weeks when individual rooms can be booked by singles or couples looking for a private hideaway, an island away from the stresses of everyday life, enjoying the cool breeze and fantastic views from private balconies.
The heart of the island, the beautiful Great House, sits on the top of Devils Hill and brings everyone together for dinner and drinks or dancing to the music of one of the local calypso bands. Hammocks and couches on the terrace provide for a relaxing and lazy afternoon.
So how much does this tropical fantasy getaway cost, you might ask. Rates during Celebration Weeks in 2008 (September 27th to October 4th and October 4th to the 11th) start from $23,500 per couple/per week to $322,000 to rent the entire island for 7 nights, and there is a 5-night minimum stay.
Necker Island is obviously not your typical beach side vacation nor one that too many of us can afford… but still, it’s nice to dream!
