ISLAND HOP THE CARIBBEAN

Bequia and St Vincent

Bequia and Petit St Vincent are less known in the Caribbean, but we know that they pack just as much of a tropical punch. In fact, as you’ll be away from the crowds there will be more of an opportunity to completely switch off and revel in your natural environment. Arrive at Bequia, via a private seaplane transfer from Barbados and enjoy a warm welcome from colonial-chic property Bequia Beach Hotel. Full of Caribbean colour and charm, you will easily get into the swing of low-key living here including sundowners on Friendship Beach.

Onward to Petit Saint Vincent, where you can dial down relaxation a notch further. This private island, encircled by azure waters, is the place to come to disconnect. Whether you’re travelling with family or a special someone, PSV creates time for the people that matter, in the most exquisite of settings. Find secret coves, paddle board around the island or simply hole up in your sumptuous beach cabana and put the flag out when you need a champagne top up. This is laidback luxe living at its best.

Antigua and St Bart’s

If you’re a couple seeking seclusion and exclusivity, then the combination of Antigua and St Bart’s could well fit the bill. Your first stop will be Hermitage Bay in Antigua. Luxe suites are scattered along the verdant hillside and an exceptionally pretty beach is just a gentle stroll away. It’s a peaceful place, just for adults, located at the end of a sandy track. Here, you can quite easily spend the day drifting from your private pool to the powder-soft beach, stopping for rum punches and lobster salad. If activity calls, visit a local farm or take a cookery course with the chef.

Next up, you’ll fly to Le Toiny in St Bart’s. This small, charming Relais and Chateau hotel is hidden on the hillside on a wild and unspoilt part of St Bart’s coastline. Hide away here in breezy suites that come with large heated pools or head down to the chic beach club. St Bart’s is also a foodie haven so you may want to explore the island’s quirky bars and seafood restaurants or catch your own dinner on a deep-sea fishing trip.

Canouan and Barbados

This pairing of Canouan with Barbados gives you the best of the Caribbean – a private island idyll known for its calm seas and ocean activity followed by buzzy Barbados to experience a thriving restaurant and nightlife scene. And with an easy six-seater transfer from Canouan there’s no reason why you can’t have it all.

Stay at the Mandarin Oriental Canouan to begin your Caribbean exploration. Turquoise waters will beckon you to enjoy its warm waters either snorkelling, kayaking or sailing a hobie cat. The island itself is ripe for exploration – hike up Mount Royal for a sensational panorama or bike around sandy tracks spotting tortoises and discovering hidden beaches.

The island of Barbados will seem lively after your private island experience. Stay in the heart of the action at Coral Reef Club, which is known for having one of the finest restaurants on Barbados. Set within 12 acres of beautifully manicured gardens, Coral Reef is elegance personified. Take a chicly appointed Plantation suite and enjoy breezy sea views. Dress for dinner and take your place in the sea-facing restaurant where live reggae will accompany a dinner of freshly caught lobster and fish.