5 island escapes that offer sweet seclusion
Get away from it all while having it all at these slightly under-the-radar properties.
This story is from issue 7 of Travel + Luxury magazine. Explore the digital edition here.
There’s something about being surrounded by water on a small and intriguing island that instantly suggests a removal from mundane reality. Such magical destinations embrace a perception of both isolation and clear boundaries, plus a sense of falling, however temporarily, off the map. But would-be Robinson Crusoes expect modern conveniences, too, particularly in terms of stylish and destination-appropriate accommodation, and access to leisure facilities.
These five island properties, ranging from a motu in French Polynesia to a mini-hotel with “hermit cabins” on a Swedish isle, have a faraway feel but offer all the best creature comforts blended with possibilities of adventure and, importantly, rest and renewal. Whether a house-party pad in The Maldives, a pavilion-style hideaway in Turks and Caicos or a ryokan-style villa in Okinawa, such under-the-radar choices are perfect for travellers keen to get away from it all while having it all.
Take off with a spirit of discovery and pack light. Let’s go.
Hoshinoya, Japan
In Japan’s far south, the subtropical island prefecture of Okinawa is home to the “museum island” of Taketomi, where Hoshinoya, a tiny, time-warp destination, offers a refined modern ryokan aesthetic in low-rise units or four premium villas with 20-metre pools in garden and beachside settings. The property is a member of the wider Hoshino Resorts group, with similarly stylish options in Ubud, Bali, plus a mountain redoubt in Taiwan, and elsewhere in Japan. hoshinoresorts.com
Amanyara, Turks and Caicos
This resort sits on a long, private stretch of white sand and aquamarine water backed by a 7300-hectare nature reserve on Providenciales Island in the Turks and Caicos archipelago. Choose from pavilions set in gardens, waterways or coves, plus pool villas. There’s an emphasis on wellness and pampering, water sports, and cuisine that mingles lively Caribbean, Asian and Mediterranean influences. Aman.com
The Brando, Tetiaroa, Tahiti
On the late Marlon Brando’s private French Polynesian island, this resort, opened in 2014, is 20 minutes by private plane from Papeete; 35 lagoon-side villas feature high thatched roofs and movie star-worthy interiors. Take a boat excursion to surrounding motu (islets), snorkel and marvel at the Gauguin-esque colours. There are bikes to cycle the sandy paths, with baskets that look purpose-made to carry baguettes. Cuisine is worthy of a top Paris restaurant. thebrando.com
Fabriken Furillen, Gotland, Sweden
Owned by fashion photographer Johan Hellstrom, this 18-room mini-hotel celebrates Scandinavian design and includes two “hermit cabins” for the truly hardy. Once part of a limestone quarry, it has panoramic views through wide windows, sleek furniture and decor touches by leading creatives, on-site sauna and healthy fare based on local produce, often prepared by notable guest chefs. Gotland is Sweden’s largest island and the property offers bikes for leisurely exploring. Check seasonal opening dates. furillen.com
Ithaafushi — The Private Island, the Maldives
This exclusive addition to Waldorf Astoria Ithaafushi on South Male Atoll covers 32,000 square metres and accommodates a one-booking party. There’s a two-bedroom overwater villa, three-bedroom beach villa and four-bedroom residence, five pools, jacuzzis, clubhouse and direct access to a beach. Of course, there’s a personal concierge team, butlers and spa therapists on call, and a fully equipped gym. The resort proper is a short speedboat-hop across a dazzling lagoon. waldorfastoriamaldives.com