This romantic cluster of some 60 islands and cays attracts a high number of repeat visitors, and with exclusivity and luxury as standard, it’s easy to see why people come back time after time. Luxurious resorts, spellbinding spas, pristine white sands and ultramarine waters only confirm the allure. Cool off with a cocktail - perhaps the infamous Painkiller - and then, with suitcases unpacked and beachwear on, you can relax on a hammock strung between two palm trees. Take to the water and you’ll be treated to some of the best sailing in the world, and the region’s protected coral reefs also make for some superb snorkelling and diving.
On Peter Island, a private 1,800 acre enclave home to just a single hotel, you’re certain of solitude. There are five exquisite white sand beaches, private tiki huts with sumptuous picnics included and bicycles for rent to explore the island. Head to Paradise Watersports for scuba diving at Salt Island, snorkel at Honeymoon Beach and sail to one of the many surrounding islands by private boat, where you can moor up overnight for a sublime shipwrecked evening. The BVI is famous for its sailing, and island hopping is one of the great pleasures of this destination; spending your whole holiday on a private yacht can easily be arranged.
Sun-kissed and super friendly Virgin Gorda is the third largest of the islands and home to 'The Baths', an iconic rock formation with huge granite boulders, underwater caves and dazzling mini pools. The water is extremely warm and clear and it's worth spending an afternoon here exploring. From Virgin Gorda, water taxis take you to deserted islands and complimentary bicycles make exploring easy. Dining on the BVI is exquisite, with everything from lobster cooked by a personal chef in the privacy of your home, to exceptional fine dining at the Sugar Mill. For a more informal eatery with delicious burgers, try The Fat Virgin Café or take a boat to Saba Rock for a dinner of Veuve Clicquot and haute cuisine fresh from the sea.
Last but not least, the BVI is home to indisputably the most famous privately owned island in the world - Richard Branson’s Necker Island. At certain times throughout the year rooms can be booked individually, or if you really want to push the boat out, you can hire out the whole island!
