The crisp chill has arrived, with frosty mornings and bare branches painting a serene winter landscape—hello, winter. The days are shorter, the air sharper, and a unique stillness fills the season, making us crave warmth—both literal and figurative. It’s a time for cozy moments with that special someone, the joy of giving (and receiving), and the perfectly reasonable excuse to pull out our favourite layers and embrace what many consider their most beloved season.
Yet, as much as we enjoy the beauty of winter, we find ourselves daydreaming of warmer escapes, reminiscing about those sun-soaked getaways that brought us unforgettable moments. One such place that holds a special place in our hearts is Necker Island, Sir Richard Branson’s private retreat in the British Virgin Islands.
An Invitation to Paradise
Sometimes, life surprises you with opportunities that feel almost too good to be true. For us, that was the rare chance to visit Necker Island. Known for hosting luminaries like Nelson Mandela and Princess Diana, this 74-acre paradise is the epitome of exclusivity.
Our journey began early in the morning, with flights through Newark and St. Thomas before boarding a seven-seater plane to Beef Island, Tortola. There, we were met by the island’s shuttle boat which took us the final distance. As we ripped through the choppy water, Necker Island appeared on the horizon. Its beauty was humbling—a quiet promise of the unforgettable days that lay ahead.
Hospitality at Its Finest
Upon arrival, we were greeted by Fitz, the island’s manager, whose attention to detail set the tone for the week. He introduced us to the island’s amenities and even reminded us about the laundry service—a thoughtful touch that meant no post-vacation piles of worn clothes.
Our room, the Leha Lo, was a serene sanctuary with a wraparound terrace offering breathtaking views of the ocean. On our first morning, we woke to a vibrant rainbow stretching across the horizon—a magical start to our stay. Spacious and inviting, the room was filled with thoughtful details, including Coola sunscreen, provided to protect the island’s environment and adding a personal touch to our experience. The outdoor shower was a simple luxury we embraced, rushing back to enjoy it before the sunset each day.
The Heart of Necker: The Great House
The Great House became the heart of our time on Necker. It was a gathering place for the other guests and where we began and ended each day. From its hammocks and infinity pool overlooking neighbouring islands to its “mi casa es su casa” hospitality, it was the perfect place to unwind. Each morning, we enjoyed fresh, made-to-order breakfasts, fresh lemon-turmeric-ginger shots, and were often greeted by a tiny tortoise strolling through the house—a charming reminder of the island’s laid-back charm.
Perched at the island’s highest point, the Great House also offered breathtaking panoramic views. While the rooftop hot tub wasn’t for us, it served as a peaceful retreat for others.
Adventures and Simple Joys
Necker Island offers endless ways to explore and enjoy the island, from kayaking and paddle boarding to sailing and kite surfing. On land, we marvelled at the flamingos in their new pond and spent playful moments with the island’s lemurs, whose gentle curiosity made them an unforgettable highlight.
Necker strikes a perfect balance between relaxation and beauty, with every meal adding to the island’s allure. One afternoon, we enjoyed lunch by the pool at a long, crocodile-shaped table, accompanied by a sushi boat gracefully floating in the water—a whimsical and unforgettable touch that perfectly captured the island’s unique spirit.
Sustainability in Action
While exploring the island, we got up close to the towering wind turbines and rows of solar panels—a testament to Necker’s dedication to sustainability. Along the way, we uncovered stories of its history. Rebuilt after devastating fires and hurricanes, the island stands as a symbol of resilience, blending thoughtful design with environmental stewardship. It’s a place where nature and luxury harmoniously coexist.
Leaving with a Full Heart
Each sunset on Necker reminded us to savor the moment. As city people, we’re used to the hustle and energy of urban life, but the week on Necker taught us the magic of slowing down and finding joy in life’s simpler pleasures.
Leaving was bittersweet, but we left with memories of a place where simplicity, nature, and history blend effortlessly. Necker Island was more than a getaway—it was a reminder of life’s quiet magic, leaving us grounded and grateful.