Sir Richard Branson's private Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands is one of the world's most stunning getaways. But it was destroyed during Hurricane Irma in 2017, taking two years to rebuild it. That was just in time for COVID-19 travel restrictions to hit. Finally, the paradisiacal retreat is welcoming guests, and it's more luxurious (and sustainable) than ever.
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The Great House features two new rooms bringing the total to 11 guestrooms. Each one comes with a balcony, ensuite bathrooms, and king-sized beds. The master suite also boasts a private outdoor Jacuzzi and sundeck, while the bunk room can sleep up to six kids. Leha Lo has also added a Balinese style house, a standalone room perched above the rocks with a wraparound terrace. Not surprisingly, all the rooms feature amazing panoramic views of the Caribbean, the Atlantic, and neighboring islands.
Additionally, the Bali Hi complex was fully restored to its original grandeur with additions like an extended pool, outdoor lounge, and private plunge pools in each Bali House.
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But, one of the most significant changes to Necker Island was its focus on sustainability. Branson took the opportunity of rebuilding to install three wind turbines that, along with the solar farm, enable the island to run on around 90 percent renewable energy every day. Plus, the staff's uniforms were made from recycled plastic from the ocean.
While there are many positive additions to the island, it's availability to visitors remains the same. Exclusive buyouts are still the primary way to stay, but select weeks a year when the island are set up like a hotel and can book individual rooms. These "Celebration Weeks" start from $5,000 per room per night. No matter which way you book, the rates are all-inclusive. So, accommodations, meals, round trip airport transfers, a dedicated staff, water sports equipment, and more are included.
