The Caribbean has a lot to offer the traveller, especially the more discerning travel enthusiast. If you are looking for quality, both in accommodation and service, then there are famous names that will resonate through your ears, evoking fond memories and warm smiles. Half Moon Jamaica, Almond Beach Resort Barbados and Casa de Campo Dominican Republic, to name a small selection. On a recent trip to the British Virgin Islands however I discovered a truly outstanding gem of a resort, solid in character and delivery of world-class service.
As soon as my journey began up the long driveway to the fine establishment of Little Dix Bay, I knew that this was a place of peace and serenity. The flora and fauna on display were simply breath taking, the gardens manicured to a fine art, a display of natural beauty perhaps not to be beaten in BVI.
Little Dix is located on Virgin Gorda, geographically just off the Sir Francis Drake Channel, 90 miles east of Puerto Rico and 26 miles northeast of St. Thomas, and is accessed via San Juan, St. Thomas or Tortola. One of the resorts biggest draw cards is its pristine and undeniably beautiful beach. The bay is enclosed by a coral reef off shore, this allows for calm waters perfect for swimming (and for the those who snorkel the reef offers a myriad of sea life and interesting coral formations). If that isn’t enough then a private boat can ship residents off to a selection of thirteen other secluded local beaches.
Accommodation at the resort is in a class of its own, if you are searching for the lap of luxury then Little Dix offers just that. Nestled amid lush, radiant tropical gardens the rooms each have a character of their own. One unique charm that I picked up on was the finishing touch of walking canes in every suite. This apparently was, like many of the unique features at Little Dix, an idea of Mr. Rockefeller. A man keen on sustainable tourism, even back in 1958 (some would say he pioneered the notion of sustainable tourism, especially in the Caribbean), and also keen on hiking and long walks. Thus the walking canes. And walking is certainly a joy around the grounds of the resort. All rooms are equipped with modern touches yet still manage to retain a certain charm and charisma.
There are a variety of accommodations on offer, ranging from garden view rooms to deluxe cottages. If you are celebrating, then two recently appointed villas offer the ultimate in luxury and privacy. With the choice of a two or three bedroom villa (each with own pool and ocean view, separated from the rest of the resort by wrought iron gates), those wishing to escape can hide away in an island paradise. You can choose to bring your own chef along if you so desire, or a resident world-class chef is always on offer if you prefer! The villas are immaculately decked out and include everything you could ever desire. Spacious and minimalist they truly are out of this world. Although the price reflects that. In high season the three bedroom villa can be rented for US$4000 per night, (roughly £18,000 per week).
If being pampered is your choice of relaxation then Little Dix has just the answer, a beautiful and superbly equipped spa. With a pool that over looks the Caribbean Sea, nestled on a hill with an amazing viewpoint, the spa utilises the latest botanical treatments, many which entwine locally sourced products. As the website states, ‘The Spa at Little Dix Bay offers the world’s finest treatments in an unparalleled dramatic setting.’ Many of the indigenous plants used are found within the resorts grounds.
Treatments include; a Salt Island Scrub (25 mins US$65), Native Grains & Cactus Exfoliation (a Little Dix signature 55 mins $125), Virgin Gorda Goat Milk & Honey Wrap (another signature 55 mins $125), and there is even a facial just for us gents (aptly named the Gentleman’s Facial 55 mins $95). And for all you lovers out there is the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of the Spa together.
This is where the spa really excels. Three treatments are on offer. Sunset Serenity (one hour massage to finish the day in style 90 mins $160 p/p), Island Time for Two (a luxurious four hour treatment including a dry body scrub and then time alone to apply some sensuous aromatic mud, finished with a beautiful island massage. $425 p/p). My personal favourite though has to be the Couples Massage Instruction. A chance to master the technique of a fabulous massage. Each couple is given expert tuition and the opportunity to practice on one another. There can be no more excuses in future, from either party!
All in all Little Dix Bay is a truly opulent experience infusing splendid service in immaculate accommodation. Located on the idyllic Virgin Gorda, it is easily accessible from USVI by both air and sea. And if you fancy a change of scenery there are multitudes of excursions on offer (additional costs). If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the modern world with out losing contact completely (all rooms have adsl internet access, free twenty four hours to all guests), then Little Dix is the place to retreat.
For complete information on Little Dix Bay, including travel, rates and all spa treatments (the site is incredibly detailed and should answer all of your questions) then go to www.littledixbay.com.
For details of how to get to BVI from the UK visit www.bvitouristboard.com.
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