2 minute read
TRAVEL NOTES
Reconnect in Indonesia, drift away in Anguilla and go wild in Scotland
Compiled by HARRIET COOPER
FANTASY ISLAND
Bawah Reserve - a private archipelago in Indonesia, only accessible by seaplane - is an off-grid idyll, with its pristine beaches, crystalline lagoons teeming with parrot fish and turtles, and thatched ecoconscious villas. Now guests (over-18s only) can stay on the previously untouched island of Elang, where six sustainably-minded lodges have been built into the cliffside. Each one comes with a butler, sweeping views, and a private path that wends its way down to the sea. Elang also has a clubhouse complete with open-air bar, beachside restaurant, as well as a spa and salt water infinity pool. For the ultimate in barefoot Robinson Crusoe luxe, book the entire place for exclusive use. bawahreserve.com
Caribbean Idyll
TROPICAL BREEZE
For a slice of true paradise, stay at Cap Juluca, a Belmond Hotel on the Caribbean isle of Anguilla, and charter a sailing boat to Prickly Pear Cays. Drop anchor and spend a dreamy few hours snorkelling and swimming with turtles in the pristine, coral-rich waters, before rewarding your efforts with grilled lobster and rum punch. belmond.com
GREEK ODYSSEY
Those looking for understated luxury should head to the Greek island of Antiparos and the newlyopened The Rooster. Tucked away between the unspoilt beaches of the Aegean coastline, the emphasis here is on slow living with 17 beautifully-designed suites, villas and houses set amongst landscaped gardens, a pool, spa and organic menu. theroosterantiparos.com
WILD TIMES
Vanessa Branson is an expert at creating otherworldly holiday havens (she owns El Fenn in Morocco) and her beautiful private Scottish island Eilean Shona is no exception. Rent the 18th-century hunting lodge - a luxury boutique hotel-meets-well-loved family home – in its entirety or you can book the newly-launched five-night ‘experience break’ for wild swimming, dolphin spotting, fire-cooked feasting and champagne drinking.
eileanshona.com CITY SLICKER
Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid has recently reopened following an extensive renovation, the most ambitious in its 110-year history. While purists will appreciate that the hotel has retained its striking Belle Époque character throughout, those seeking luxury will marvel at the 153 exquisitely-appointed rooms, Michelin-starred chef Quique Dacosta’s culinary concept, and the new spa retreat with its heated pool and excellent treatments.
