Category Archives: Private Islands

By Angela Epstein for The Mail on Sunday 10:44 16 May 2023, updated 10:44 16 May 2023

There's nothing like traffic to spoil the serenity of a long-awaited holiday.

Whether its the impatient honk of an overheated taxi driver or fellow tourists clogging up the roads as they tussle with their satnavs.

And thats aside from the fumes, the dust and all the other environmental horrors thrown up by modern road travel.

So a visit to a car-free island could save for the odd donkey be the perfect place to have a truly tranquil break. Heres a tempting selection

PEACE IN GREECE

With its sugar almond-coloured houses and a horseshoe-shaped harbour bristling with tavernas and chi-chi boutiques, Hydra is one of the quaintest of the Greek islands.

As for getting around, donkeys provide the main source of transport (not even cyclists get a look in here). Otherwise, visitors need to summon water taxis to visit quiet coves and beaches.

Beloved by Athens boho set Leonard Cohen once lived here you can also follow trails up Mount Eros, Hydras highest point.

Getting there: Ferries leave Piraeus port up to five times per day, taking two hours (ferryhopper.com). Gatwick-Athens return flights from 95 (wizzair.com).

Where to stay: Five-star Mandraki Beach Resort in the historic bay where ships were launched in the 1800s to protect the Greek seas against the Ottomans costs from 447 a night (mandrakibeachresort.com).

CAPTIVATING CROATIA

A seven-mile boat trip from Dubrovnik will spirit you over to the island of Lopud, one of the largest in Croatias Elaphiti archipelago. Lopuds natural beauty long stretches of sand and the sparkling waters of the Adriatic makes it a magnet for a drop-and-flop break.

The main attraction on the island is the 15th Century Franciscan monastery, part of which was transformed into the opulent boutique hotel Lopud 1483, sleeping just ten guests.

The monastery is off-limits, but St Mary of the Cave Church is regularly open to the public. You can also cycle through pine-shaded paths or take a leisurely hike up to Polacica, which rises about 700ft above the water.

Getting there: Croatia Ferries (croatiaferries.com) runs a regular service from Dubrovnik to Lopud with a journey time of 55 minutes. Luton-Dubrovnik return flights from around 100 (wizzair.com).

Where to stay: Lopud 1483 (lopud1483.com), prices on request. A week at RMH Lopud Lafodia resort from 1,500 for a superior double room (lafodiahotel.com).

SILENCE IN SARK

The smallest of the Channel Islands a weeny three miles by a mile and a half Sark is a place for walkers, cyclists and horse-drawn carriage tours (the islands family-run horse and carriage attraction dates back to the late 1700s).

Thanks to clear skies free from light pollution, Sark is ideal for stargazing, either from the islands observatory, where visitors study constellations and track the Milky Way, or at ground level, where all you have to do is look up.

Getting there: The Isle of Sark Shipping Company (sarkshipping.gg) runs a 55-minute ferry from Guernsey. Gatwick-Guernsey return flights from 150 (aurigny.com).

Where to stay: La Sablonnerie Hotel, a former 16th Century farmhouse, is a two-minute walk from the popular sea swimming area, Adonis Pool, and has doubles from 98 per night (sablonneriehotel.gg).

NORTH WALES WILDLIFE

Once a Christian pilgrimage site back in the Middle Ages, these days Bardsey Island, which sits two miles off Waless Llyn Peninsula, is a wildlife haven.

If youre fired up by David Attenborough, youll love looking out for the colony of about 200 Atlantic grey seals which dawdle around Bardseys coves.

This island is a place of true escape there are only nine properties to rent. Other than visit its 30m lighthouse (built in 1821 and the tallest square-towered lighthouse in the UK) there are not many attractions and no grocery shop, making it perfect for those seeking quiet. But there is the Ty Pellaf farm and cafe where dinner and breakfast can be booked in advance.

Getting there: Bardsey is open for visits from March until October. Day trips are available (bardseyboattrips.com/product/boat-trips), taking about 30 minutes from Porth Meudwy.

Where to stay: Weekly stays in a range of accommodation can be booked with the Bardsey Island Trust (bardsey.org), with prices from about 400.

A FRENCH SECRET

Forget the splashy Cote DAzur, the private island of Ile de Cavallo, located between Corsica and Sardinia, is probably the most secluded hideaway in the South of France.

Little wonder its sometimes referred to as the Meds answer to Mustique. Its also part of the International Marine Park of the Bonifacio Strait the largest marine natural reserve in mainland France. Mindful of its pristine heritage, boats arent allowed to moor in its coves. If you want to explore the islands dirt tracks, you can do so on foot or in a golf buggy.

Getting there: Take a 15-minute ferry from Bonifacio on Corsica (cavalloisland.com). Gatwick-Figari return flights from about 95 (easyjet.com).

Where to stay: The boutique Hotel & Spa des Pecheurs (hoteldespecheurs.com) has two-night stays from 816.

SWEDISH SERENITY

The southernmost inhabited island in Swedens Southern Gothenburg Archipelago, Vrango is a place where people come to swim, eat seafood and enjoy nature with plants such as wild asparagus sprouting on the beaches.

The vibe is New England weather-beaten clapboard houses, sea views and the fact the main interests for the 400 or so locals are fishing and boats. The average summer temperature is 21C (70F) so sunny without being scorching.

Getting there: The ferry from Gothenburg to Vrango takes 35 minutes (vasttrafik.se). Stansted-Gothenburg return flights from about 95 (ryanair.com).

Where to stay: Kajkanten Vrango (kajkantenvrango.se) is a complex of 11 boathouse apartments with a wood-fired floating sauna and hot tub costs from 1,400 for a week in a studio apartment.

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Carefree and car-free: The glorious islands where vehicles are ... - Daily Mail

Updated: May 17, 2023 11:31 PM

Sandra Christensen, left, the event organiser for Vegas in the Vaults fundraiser, and Karen Gonsalves from the Talcott charities committee (Photograph supplied)

A reinsurance company has signed on as the lead sponsor of an event to raise funds for the transformation of a church rectory into a residential treatment centre.

Talcott Re is supporting Vegas in the Vaults, to be held at Agars Island on Saturday.

Habitat for Humanity of Bermuda aims to raise $600,000 towards the revitalisation of the former St James Church rectory in Sandys so that it can be used to help people with long-term mental health conditions.

A spokeswoman explained: At Talcott Re, employees share in the culture of caring with their generosity and volunteerism and believe strongly in the value and strength of the communities where they live and work.

With their commitment to supporting local charities, they are making a meaningful contribution to Habitat for Humanity to help bring this project to fruition.

She said: Talcott Re, an international reinsurer, offers flexibility to counterparties seeking international solutions to their risk management needs.

The company has locations in Bermuda and the Cayman Islands and $31 billion in assets under management.

Sheelagh Cooper, the chairwoman of Habitat for Humanity of Bermuda, added: We are so excited to be partnering with Talcott.

It is a new, really dynamic company, with a team that really understands and supports our values.

The fundraiser is expected to start with a boat ride to the private island location, where guests will dance and enjoy food and wine from around the world while trying their luck at casino-style games.

Habitat for Humanity is working in partnership with the Mid-Atlantic Wellness Institute and the Anglican Church of Bermuda to provide somewhere that will offer around-the-clock care for patients with long-term mental conditions.

For more information about the St James rectory project visithabitat.bm. Tickets for Vegas in the Vaults can be bought on the charitys website via the News and Events tab.

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Reinsurance firm supporting treatment centre fundraiser - Royal Gazette

Corinthia has signed a hotel management agreement to operate a luxury resort in the Maldives.

The resort developer is Maarah Pvt Ltd, a Maldivianentity, affiliated with Maarah Holdings Ltd, a United Arab Emirates company registered within the Dubai International Financial Centre.

This is part of Niro Investment Group, an investment company in Romania, which is further strengthening its international operations in the Middle East and South Asia.

Early works on reclamation and the first phase of the development of the resort, located on the Kaafu Atoll. have commenced and will feature two islands hosting a 73-key resort on the larger of the two and a second, smaller private island for exclusive use.

Corinthia Maldives, set to open in the last quarter of 2025, will feature aquatic-inspired architecture designed by global firm HKS.

The main pavilion and all villas are taking on forms and shapes that take inspiration from the gentle curves of the oceans Manta Ray.

The resort will also include state-of-the-art wellness facilities, multiple fitness spaces and a choice of five restaurants operated by internationally renowned brands.

The resort is located 15 minutes from Male International Airport and will provide long-term local employment opportunities while contributing towards the growing destination tourism economy of the Maldives.

Other than HKS as lead architects, several contractors and engineering firms have been engaged in the project.

Independent journalism costs money. Support Times of Malta for the price of a coffee.

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Corinthia to open luxury resort in Maldives - Times of Malta

Funding to support local economies and communities.

Projects designed to stimulate economic activity, boost tourism and improve community assets on Scotlands islands will share 4.1 million in the latest round of funding from the Islands Programme.

A total of 13 initiatives will benefit from the funding include the a community recycling hub on Shetland, the construction of new accommodation for workers in Mull and the development of a new bike park on the Isle of Arran. Over 700,000 has also be used to help preserve the 18th Century Garrison House complex in Millport, Great Cumbrae.

Islands Secretary Mairi Gougeon announced the news whilst attending a conference on sustainable islands in Shetland part of a two-day visit to the region where Ms Gougeon will be meeting with local businesses and communities.

Ms Gougeon said:

I recognise the continued resilience shown by Islanders in response to the climate and cost of living crises but I am mindful that ongoing support is needed in order to ensure the long term sustainability of our island communities.

This new funding displays our commitment to enact our National Islands Plan across all six island authorities in Scotland in order to tackle island depopulation, boost local economies and bolster tourism.

Whilst here on Shetland I am happy to announce almost 800,000 of funding for Shetland Islands Council to support a community growing space, the expansion of the Shetland Home Project and the renovation of a building to provide an inspirational hub for arts and health.

I look forward to seeing the positive impact that the projects will have in their respective communities.

Neil Rutherford, Senior Associate Director, Scottish Futures Trust said:

Our infrastructure experts have worked closely with Scottish Government and the island local authorities to ensure the Islands Programme continues to deliver positive outcomes for island communities.

The awards further support equality of opportunity, and community social enterprise ventures that will support repopulation, economic growth and local jobs, and were looking forward to continuing to work with the community project teams to see their visions move into reality and achieve what the communities need most.

Shetland Islands Council Leader Emma MacDonald said:

I am delighted with this investment in Shetland from the Scottish Governments Islands Programme.

The projects which we put forward for consideration were developed and driven by local communities, and address vital issues for our future such as employment support for vulnerable people, regeneration of community assets, food security, and addressing climate change through the circular economy.

This news will be an incredible boost for these groups and we cant wait to see the projects in action.

North Ayrshire Council Leader Marie Burns said:

Were absolutely delighted to receive funding for two projects of major significance on the islands of Cumbrae and Arran.

This will secure the future of the historic Garrison House in Millport, allowing it to be enjoyed by future generations. Well work closely with Cumbrae Community Development Company to deliver the much-needed conservation work and improvements.

And we are also thrilled to accept funding which will support the creation of an accessible, all-weather bike park at Dyemill on Arran. This will help make Arran High School Mountain Bike Clubs vision for the park a reality and make a major contribution to encouraging residents to engage in cycling activities.

The support for these two projects through the Scottish Governments Islands Programme is most welcome. It will contribute to the delivery of our ambitious Island Plans and have a real and lasting impact for both island communities.

Background

The 2023/24 Islands Programme (IP) was launched on 31 January 2023, with an application deadline of 21 April 2023. It is being delivered in partnership with local government via a competitive bid process with the six island Local Authorities as lead applicants.

Applications to the IP have been subject to scrutiny and assessment by the Islands Programme Investment Panel which has made recommendations on projects to be funded. The panel is selected from Scottish Government and a range of partner organisations who have experience of panel assessments and infrastructure spending.

Details of approved projects

298,900 - Canna Hub, Canna - Highland Council

This project will redevelop a former coal store beside Canna pier to create a reception hub and accessible facilities to support the sustainable growth of the islands economy. The building will help support the increasing number of visitors that form a major part of the islands economy. The building will also act as a consultation and treatment room for use by NHS health workers so that residents can attend appointments in private.

700,000 - Infrastructure for Worker Accommodation - Mull, Argyll and Bute Council

This application is for phase one site infrastructure to enable delivery of accommodation for workers and will meet clearly evidenced community need for worker accommodation with essential positions currently being left unfilled. The project makes a significant contribution in delivering on the place-based priorities of the Isle of Mull community to meet housing need, that will in turn accelerate local growth and resilience.

75,202 - Growing Space Nesting Shetland Mainland - Shetland Islands Council

This project, run by Community Development Company Nesting, aims to transition a section of its vacant land into a community growing space and park for skills building, food growing and volunteering. It will address the identified local demand for a community growing space and increase regular access to affordable, fresh produce, featuring options for shared, publicly accessible outdoor and undercover growing to allow the production of fruit and vegetables. Based on local priority, Growing Space focusses on increasing community empowerment and resilience, promotes sustainable socio economic and environmental growth in Shetland, and is an example of working to achieve the Scottish Governments Net Zero Ambitions.

450,000 - Tiree Community Care Hub - Tiree, Argyll and Bute Council

This project centres on the modernisation and reconfiguration of the Tigh a Rudha care home. It acts as a catalyst to better meet the current and anticipated future care needs of the island community and will support Tirees population retention and growth plans. Tigh a Rudha, a critical part of the island community and currently providing essential care and support to elderly residents, will be transformed into a modern and flexible Community Care Hub which will also provide onsite key worker accommodation, and intermediate, end of life and respite care facilities and GP beds.

730,998 - Garrison House Regeneration Scheme, Cumbrae - North Ayrshire Council

The Garrison House Regeneration Scheme seeks to restore, re-purpose and enhance the Garrison House complex in Millport, Isle of Cumbrae. Garrison House is a significant asset to the island and an important hub for both residents and visitors. The project will secure the building fabric for future generations, improve accessibility, improve the availability of and access to services, and increase its energy efficiency and resilience to climate change. Work will include a comprehensive conservation scheme, a new gym accessible to all and provision of a changing places facility to address the lack of both on the island.

220,625 - Dyemill Bike Park, Arran - North Ayrshire Council

Arran High School Mountain Bike Club propose to build, manage, and maintain an accessible, inclusive, and safe, all-weather environment to grow and develop the Islands cycling community, inspiring Arran to cycle. The facility will provide the opportunity for residents and visitors to engage in cycling in many forms. With this new facility the Islands cycling community will benefit from being able to grow and develop local competition and event opportunities in addition to providing a safe and accessible area for coaching and skills development.

695,000 - COPE Ltd Shetland Home Co Expansion Project, Mainland Shetland - Shetland Islands Council

This project is designed to grow the reach and impact of COPEs Shetland Home Co, a re-use centre that sells furniture, electrical goods, and homeware among other items. The participants who work at the Shetland Home Co are breaking down barriers and stigmatisation and show that people with a learning disability can sustain employment. Electrical goods that cannot be sold are processed and stripped down to components for recycling. The project will support the circular economy, Scotlands Net Zero ambitions and positively impact on individuals with learning disabilities - one of the most disadvantaged groups in the labour market.

71,005 - Hymhus, The Bigton Regeneration Hub Phase 1, Mainland Shetland. Shetland Islands Council

This application is for Phase 1 of the renovation of Hymhus to provide an inspirational hub for arts and health. The measures will improve sustainability and meantime use, allow for a more flexible renovation plan and a continued income stream for a key community asset which provides a warm space, works to address social isolation and hosts therapeutic services. It will secure the future of the community asset, and ensure the longer-term sustainability of the building.

250,000 - Stornoway Campus, Lewis - Comhairle nan Eilean Siar

The planned works are to redevelop UHI Outer Hebrides to enhance the high-quality learning and training facilities and enable innovative approaches to digital and distance learning. This will involve transforming Stornoway campus to increase the attractiveness of the campus and, through the integration of new technologies, enable a greater degree of outreach to more remote learners and island businesses. A range of mobile facilities and equipment will further support equality of opportunity and enable outreach capability in Uist and Barra. The Islands Programme funding will support Mobile Equipment and Facilities and Immersive Classroom Technology.

382,307 - Acarsaid Harbour Development Eriskay and South Uist - Comhairle nan Eilean Siar

This application is to enhance the currently constrained harbour facility at the local authority owned pier at Acarsaid on the East coast of Eriskay, by introducing an enlarged concrete deck pier (extending the life of the facility by 50 years) and extending the in-demand pontoon. This will improve vessel unloading, address berthing demand and will minimise idling times for unloading and steaming time to more distant berths, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Improved berthing will encourage additional employment, provide vessel space for shellfish landings to local processors and help develop local, national, and international markets for the highest quality seafood produce.

200,000 - Kirkwall Bridge Street Development - Mainland Orkney, Orkney Islands Council

The focus of this application is a rapid first phase to establish new activity within The Bridge Street Development Project in Kirkwall which occupies a prime location in one of the most historic parts of the town but is vacant brownfield site with derelict warehouse buildings. The project responds to the urgent pressures and risks of decline, ensuring that Kirkwall town centre does not fall into a self-perpetuating state of decline. Plans are to create a reusable steel framed multioccupancy food and drink hospitality and leisure business environment. With an estimated project cost of 4,650,000 the Phase One Project represents a significant investment in the regeneration of Kirkwall's town centre.

78,350 - An Taigh Mor, Lewis - Comhairle nan Eilean Siar

This application is to progress the design of An Taigh Mr, a Grade 2 listed building, to RIBA 4 and building warrant stages, planning interpretation in detail and for preparing tender documents to renovate, extend and fit out the building for future use. The preservation and redevelopment work will ultimately enable the local community to deliver the project aims of successfully interpreting its links to the Flannan Isles, providing space for community use of a size and nature not available elsewhere locally and increase opportunities for the community to engage with its history, language, and culture in an appropriate setting. Focussing on community needs as well as visitor demand, the provision of rural facilities for heritage and wellbeing activities will increase employment opportunities and participation in community projects.

55,000 - Seallam! Hebrides People Visitor Centre, Harris - Comhairle nan Eilean Siar

This application is to complete RIBA Stage 3 and 4 work to enable the refurbishment and extension of the existing facilities at the Seallam! Hebrides People Visitor Centre to be upgraded to provide a much-needed quality attraction in South Harris, which is community owned and run. The facility is already creating and sustaining local jobs, building partnerships across islands and once complete will kick start the economic regeneration of Northton township, creating transformational and critical infrastructure for South Harris.

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Investing in Scotland's islands - gov.scot - The Scottish Government

When Finance Minister Grant Robertson delivers the Budget today, his last before Octobers election, he will announce close to $400 million will go towards schools, and that the Government is committed to building hundreds more classrooms.

While Pacific island leaders welcome the move, they want New Zealand to review its "sky-high" education fees for their students studying in Aotearoa.

There are 101 Pacific island children out of 5271 international students enrolled in schools across New Zealand as of April 12.

Data for tertiary students for the same period is yet to be released but 21,915 Pacific people were enrolled in universities, private training establishments (PTEs), Te Pkenga, wnanga and workplace training in 2022.

READ MORE:* Less than half of NZ students achieve UE, with only two-thirds passing NCEA Level 1* NZ hosts Pacific education ministers as talanoa targets challenges* Three quarters of eligible school students about to get access to free period products* Fees-free tertiary study: How it could hurt those it's meant to help

The Government said its zero-fee policy (Fees Free) is for first-year students only.

For a student visa, applicants are required to provide evidence that they have at least NZ$20,000 or NZ$17,000 to cover living expenses for their first year of study.

123RF.COM

Pacific island leaders want a review of New Zealands tertiary education fees, with an emphasis on reclassifying international Pacific students as domestic students.

Tonga's Prime Minister Hu'akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni said there were different fee structures for domestic and international students and this should change.

He said Pacific students were on the international list, and they had to pay higher fees to be able to access higher education in both Aotearoa and Australia.

Education Minister Jan Tinetti said students from the Pacific represented one in every 40 international students with 32% from Fiji, Tonga (26%), Papua New Guinea (14%) and Samoa (9%).

In a statement, Tinetti said around half of the Pacific students were in universities, with one in six enrolled in private training establishments (PTEs) and a third in polytechnics and wnanga.

Between 2016 and 2019, there were 495 Pacific nationals undertaking tertiary education and supported by a Manaaki scholarship 33% of all international students.

That means that there were 1000 students a year from Pacific nations, privately funded or financed by awards other than through the Manaaki scheme (some will be funded by family, employer, by charities or scholarships other than from the government), Tinetti said.

At the recent Conference of Pacific Education Ministers (CPEM) in Auckland, concerns were raised with Tinetti about the sky-high fees.

She said one of the primary objectives of the meeting was to define what empowering education means for Pacific people and societies.

Since April 12, 101 Pacific students out of 5271 internationals are enrolled in schools across the country, according to the Education Ministry Te Thuhu o te Mtauranga.

AIMAN AMERUL MUNER/Stuff

Tongas Prime Minister Hu'akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni wants New Zealands sky-high education fees for Pacific island students to fall.

Victoria University of Wellington and the University of Auckland both estimated living costs at $20,000-$27,000 each year, with Otago University in Dunedin at $18,000-$21,000.

Annual fees for state schools start at about $11,000 for primary schools and $14,000 for secondary schools. Annual fees for private primary and secondary schools start at about $25,000.

Hu'akavameiliku said fees at universities in New Zealand and Australia were "too high for Pasifika.

"Our students are paying the same fees as other international students, say from Asia or Europe," he said.

Tinetti said the Government supports education for Pacific students through the International Development Cooperation programme and through the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships programme.

They allowed students to study in a New Zealand or a Pacific institution, she said.

The New Zealand education system is not currently funded to support tertiary education for non-New Zealand citizens and residents.

For work-based learning, Fees Free covers the student and employer's fees for training and assessment for the first 24 months of any eligible work-based programme.

But to be eligible for Fees Free, while enrolled in work-based learning in 2023, applicants need to meet the residency and prior study and training criteria.

Fiji govt

Pacific heads of education discuss the challenges facing the sector in the region.

Fiji's Education Minister Aseri Radrodro said Pacific countries had been hit hard by climate change and disasters including cyclones, Covid-19 and a cost of living crisis.

He urged New Zealand and Australia to work together with the island states to "address these issues that we are confronted with daily".

Kiribati Education Minister Alexander Teabo said its 33 islands stretched across 3 million square kilometres of ocean which made it logistically hard to provide education there.

The Pacific Islands Forum said in a statement, "without education to drive economic growth, the island nations will remain dependent on others to finance development goals".

Hu'akavameiliku also raised the issue with Foreign Affairs officials, urging New Zealand and Australia to provide a pathway similar to the Pacific work access category, which would make education more affordable for Pasifika.

Tinetti said people from New Zealands realm countries the Cook Islands, Niue and Tokelau have all the rights of a New Zealand citizen, including the right to live in Aotearoa to enrol as domestic students in tertiary education.

They pay domestic student fees, can be returned as domestic students in enrolment returns, generate government tuition funding entitlements and have access to the New Zealand student financial support system student loans and student allowances.

Tinetti said reclassifying international Pacific students as domestic students would have a fiscal cost, given the Government subsidises the majority of the cost of tertiary study for domestic students.

Any change to these settings would need to be considered through future Budget processes, she said.

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Calls to make education 'more affordable' for Pacific island students - Stuff

Just a mile from Ontarios border with Minnesota in picturesque Rainy Lake lies this adorable 3/4 acre island with two buildings built for year-round living, and located just 400 feet off the mainland for easy access all year. The 1,800-square-foot main building features two large bedrooms, a large bathroom with a soaker tub and walk-in shower, and a bright kitchen with a pantry. A beautiful sunroom next to the living room and dining roo ...

Just a mile from Ontarios border with Minnesota in picturesque Rainy Lake lies this adorable 3/4 acre island with two buildings built for year-round living, and located just 400 feet off the mainland for easy access all year. The 1,800-square-foot main building features two large bedrooms, a large bathroom with a soaker tub and walk-in shower, and a bright kitchen with a pantry. A beautiful sunroom next to the living room and dining room offers spectacular lake, sunset and sunrise views throughout the seasons. The 1,100-square-foot second building has a large family room, an exercise/bedroom space, a bathroom, a kitchen, and an infrared sauna. An eight-person hot tub is just outside on the lakes edge, the perfect place to watch the sun set.

Another of the propertys top outdoor highlights is the large wood-fired oven, ideal for delicious bread, pizza, and anything else you can imagine. The oven is set on a natural lakeside bedrock patio, perfect for outdoor entertaining. A unique custom diving board sits at the far point of the island, alongside a swimming dock and house. The gorgeous island has been completely landscaped with natural materials that require minimal maintenance, and includes paths, gardens, firepits, and a unique hand-built pond, which circulates water from and back into the lake. The island comes with power, a water filter system, a septic system, and free high-speed Internet service, and also features plenty of docking and a dockside shed.

65-mile-long Rainy Lake is the fifth largest inland lake in Ontario, covering more than 225,000 acres and boasting over 2,200 islands, more than 2,000 of which are in Canada. A beloved site for world-class fishing, the lake is also fantastic for canoeing and kayaking, and makes an amazing natural skating rink in wintertime. The island offers easy boating access to resorts and marinas on both sides of the international border, with excellent spots for fishing, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing nearby.

Just a mile from Ontarios border with Minnesota in picturesque Rainy Lake lies this adorable 3/4 acre island with two buildings built for year-round living, and located just 400 feet off the mainland for easy access all year. The 1,800-square-foot main building features two large bedrooms, a large bathroom with a soaker tub and walk-in shower, and a bright kitchen with a pantry. A beautiful sunroom next to the living room and dining room offers spectacular lake, sunset and sunrise views throughout the seasons. The 1,100-square-foot second building has a large family room, an exercise/bedroom space, a bathroom, a kitchen, and an infrared sauna. An eight-person hot tub is just outside on the lakes edge, the perfect place to watch the sun set.

Another of the propertys top outdoor highlights is the large wood-fired oven, ideal for delicious bread, pizza, and anything else you can imagine. The oven is set on a natural lakeside bedrock patio, perfect for outdoor entertaining. A unique custom diving board sits at the far point of the island, alongside a swimming dock and house. The gorgeous island has been completely landscaped with natural materials that require minimal maintenance, and includes paths, gardens, firepits, and a unique hand-built pond, which circulates water from and back into the lake. The island comes with power, a water filter system, a septic system, and free high-speed Internet service, and also features plenty of docking and a dockside shed.

65-mile-long Rainy Lake is the fifth largest inland lake in Ontario, covering more than 225,000 acres and boasting over 2,200 islands, more than 2,000 of which are in Canada. A beloved site for world-class fishing, the lake is also fantastic for canoeing and kayaking, and makes an amazing natural skating rink in wintertime. The island offers easy boating access to resorts and marinas on both sides of the international border, with excellent spots for fishing, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing nearby.

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Rainy Lake Island - Northern Ontario, Ontario , Canada - Private Islands

Theres a reason Do Not Disturb signs were created. When a refreshing dip in a plunge pool is just steps from your bed, theres no need to fight the crowd for a lounge chair or even don a swimsuit. At these resorts with private pools, thats exactly the lifestyle you can enjoy with your significant other.

From the Caribbean and Mexico to Spain, South Africa and even Utah, theres a host of luxurious hotels with private pools perfect for the most relaxing, most romantic getaways. Isolate yourselves at Amangiri in the seemingly remote landscape of Utah; there are sunsets and gorgeous horizons all around. Prefer something more tropical? Visit St. Lucia and Jade Mountain for vistas overlooking the island.

If youre looking for hotel rooms with a private pool, read on for our list of the best 14 locations.

The 24 suites, aptly called sanctuaries at Jade Mountain, are stacked atop each other on a hillside, all with heart-stopping views. As you open the door, get ready to be wowed: Organic architecture blends curved stone walls with exotic hardwood floors, and the open plan means youre never without a view, from the king-sized bed draped with mosquito netting to the sans-walls bathroom with its sexy whirlpool tub.

But the stars are the pools. Sized from 400 to 900 square feet, each is lined with iridescent glass tiles in shades like sapphire, jade, magenta and bronze. The effect is so mesmerizing you wont mind that theres no TV (or air conditioning, as the lofty locale provides cooling breezes). Just pour yourselves some bubbly, and slip into your infinity-edge paradise.

Each romantic vale is nestled into hillside foliage with plunge pools facing out toward the lagoon for ultimate privacy at Royal Davui Island Resort. Trading up from the island or deluxe categories to premium earns you the largest and most private oasis with its own refreshing rock waterfall.

Inside, a 20-foot netted canopy hangs from the ceiling to cocoon the king bed, which floats mid-room on a sea of polished Fijian-wood flooring adjacent to a large bathroom with a whirlpool tub and outdoor shower. A separate living room has sliding glass walls and a sunning patio with twin chaise lounges.

This 539-room all-inclusive is definitely abuzz, but the quiet Grand Class section perfectly combines luxe amenities with honeymoon privacy. All 90 suites in this section have ocean views, spa tubs and oceanfront balconies with private plunge pools. Theres even room for a massage table, should you prefer your spa treatment in suite. Top-floor rooms boast vaulted ceilings and the best views.

Yes, Hermitage Bay has cottages set right on the beach. But if its privacy and plunge pools you seek, request one of 17 hillside-cottage suites. You have to trek up a steep stone path to get there, but your effort is rewarded with the treehouse-like enclave, boasting sexy extras like a king bed, outdoor shower, wraparound sun deck and infinity-edge plunge pool with views that stretch all the way to neighboring Nevis and Montserrat.

Each of the 66 rooms and suites features a private terrace with a plunge pool, but, for the most indulgent ambience, book one of the eight Capella rooms at the Resort at Pedregal. These oversized havens have carved, wood-beam ceilings, a separate sitting area and a driftwood-back king bed positioned opposite a fireplace. The terrace door opens to an infinity-edge plunge pool with stellar sea views. More watery revelry is on tap inside in the rainforest shower for two.

Cavo Tagoo stays true to the stark-white Cycladic architecture Mykonos is known for, but the whitewashed interiors are refreshingly modern. Classic rooms on the lower level have private terraces and refreshing plunge pools while the upper-level deluxe rooms come with infinity-edge pools overlooking the Aegean Sea. A free shuttle runs between the hotel and Old Town five minutes away.

All of the resorts plush, overwater bungalows offer dive- or step-in access to the lagoon, but couples who book an overwater bungalow with a plunge pool can also take a freshwater dip on the lanai right outside their room. Its perfect for a relaxing rinse after a snorkel session or a sunset soak complete with champagne.

Inside, contemporary Polynesian dcor is equally seductive, especially the oversized tub with lagoon views. The glass panel in the living room floor lets you spy on multicolored reef fish below.

For a romantic respite, book a bilevel spa-pool villa at Banyan Tree Mayakoba. Here, your rectangular H2O oasis is the perfect relaxation spot after a massage in your private treatment area. The dcor is Asian spare meets Mexican spice. Think minimalist architecture that blends into the landscape and a neutral color palette accented by touches of orange and red.

Your outdoor terrace has twin chaise lounges and a dining area. Round-the-clock room service ups your incentive to stay put, too.

St. Lucia oozes romance, and the 32 treehouse-style rooms at Ladera match that vibe perfectly. Situated on a ridge 1,100 feet above sea level, the three-walled suites boast panoramic views of the Caribbean, the Pitons (two mountainous volcanic plugs) and the town of Soufriere. Each terrace has a private plunge pool surrounded by lush landscaping. Many also have waterfalls and teak swing sets hanging from the ceiling.

This all-inclusive, 32-room boutique resort on Grenadas southwest coast is on prime real estate, steps away from expansive Grand Anse Beach. The resorts 1,200-square-foot Anthurium pool suites are located on the lower level, and each has a private courtyard terrace where gardens and chaise lounges surround a supersized 12-by-16-foot plunge pool.

There are just three Uma pool suites at COCO Uma Ubud. Theyre constructed in an open, airy Balinese style with separate lounging, dining and sleeping areas. Each bedroom features a four-poster king bed and gleaming terrazzo floor that leads to a light-filled bathroom with a sunken tub for two. Outside, a pair of chaises flanks a sapphire-blue infinity plunge pool embraced by the solitude of the Balinese jungle.

The isle of Majorca is classic Mediterranean: olive groves, quaint towns and seaside cliffs. Within the sleepy artists village of Dei is Belmond La Residencia, a pair of stunning stone houses that have been converted into a 67-room Orient Express retreat. Here, guests lounge around the grounds, hike to the nearby swimming cove or hole up in a Tramuntana suite with a tiled garden terrace and private pool.

The stunning Utah landscape is best experienced at Amangiri, a 34-room oasis surrounded by stark plateaus near the Arizona border and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Six of the hotels suites have spacious plunge pools and private, candlelit sky terraces accessed by staircase and furnished with a daybed. Its perfect for evening stargazing.

Spend your mornings spotting lions, giraffes and elephants from a Land Rover while on safari around Kruger National Park. Then, return to Earth Lodge for afternoons staring out over the bush from the pool on your private terrace. The lodges 13 suites were made from stone and built low to the ground. While they appear minimal on the outside, inside, theyre an interior designers dream.

Each suite is filled with rich metallic art and funky, locally sourced furnishings, such as handmade twig chandeliers.

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14 Romantic Resorts with Private Plunge Pools - Islands

This island is a very special one: it lies in one of the most beautiful parts of the Bahamas and boasts white sandy beaches and the potential for an airstrip. It has all the basic essentials for development. It is situated very near well-known island resorts and existing airstrips.

Big Darby Island is located about 95 miles from Nassau, 14 miles from Great Exuma and 250 miles from Miami. It lies almost in the centre of the chain of ...

This island is a very special one: it lies in one of the most beautiful parts of the Bahamas and boasts white sandy beaches and the potential for an airstrip. It has all the basic essentials for development. It is situated very near well-known island resorts and existing airstrips.

Big Darby Island is located about 95 miles from Nassau, 14 miles from Great Exuma and 250 miles from Miami. It lies almost in the centre of the chain of some 360 islands known as the Exuma Cays -the yachting, sailing and fishing paradise of the Bahamas. The nearest islands are Rudder Cut Cay (with airstrip) and Musha Cay, both owned by illusionist David Copperfield.

This island is surrounded by crystal clear turquoise waters and features several white sandy beaches -in all approx. 21,650 ft. of water frontage. The highest elevation is approx. 80 ft. which is exceptionally high for the Bahamas.

The island can support a 3,000 ft. to 5,000 ft. runway and is adjacent to a deep protected natural harbour.

An imposing 7,000-square-foot castle built by an Englishman, Sir Baxter, in 1938 is located on the island. The castle could be rebuilt into a spectacular home or clubhouse. A survey of a proposed development plan is available.

A network of paths and walkways extends in southerly and westerly directions for a distance of 1.8 miles.

This is a great opportunity to own a large island island in The Exuma Cays.

This island is a very special one: it lies in one of the most beautiful parts of the Bahamas and boasts white sandy beaches and the potential for an airstrip. It has all the basic essentials for development. It is situated very near well-known island resorts and existing airstrips.

Big Darby Island is located about 95 miles from Nassau, 14 miles from Great Exuma and 250 miles from Miami. It lies almost in the centre of the chain of some 360 islands known as the Exuma Cays -the yachting, sailing and fishing paradise of the Bahamas. The nearest islands are Rudder Cut Cay (with airstrip) and Musha Cay, both owned by illusionist David Copperfield.

This island is surrounded by crystal clear turquoise waters and features several white sandy beaches -in all approx. 21,650 ft. of water frontage. The highest elevation is approx. 80 ft. which is exceptionally high for the Bahamas.

The island can support a 3,000 ft. to 5,000 ft. runway and is adjacent to a deep protected natural harbour.

An imposing 7,000-square-foot castle built by an Englishman, Sir Baxter, in 1938 is located on the island. The castle could be rebuilt into a spectacular home or clubhouse. A survey of a proposed development plan is available.

A network of paths and walkways extends in southerly and westerly directions for a distance of 1.8 miles.

This is a great opportunity to own a large island island in The Exuma Cays.

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Darby Island - The Exumas, Bahamas , Caribbean - Private Islands

Eager buyers trying to get a foot on the property ladder could snap up a tropical island for the price of a one-bedroom apartment in Sydney, a real estate agent says.

Private islands are no longer just a privilege for billionaires like Richard Branson as buyers look beyond the mainland to get more bang for their buck.

"There is a greater interest," Richard Vanhoff, a real estate agent specialising in islands, said.

"With the pricing of southern states, they are paying big money for houses and they still don't get the waterfront.

"When you are buying an island, you get all the waterfront."

Around Australia, private Islands have been snapped up in the past 12 months for as little as $320,000.

Queenslander Craig Becky was searching for an investment property last year when he found an offer too good to pass up.

"I actually saw it on a morning TV show and it was touted as the cheapest island in Australia," he said.

"I thought, 'Oh it's in my price range.'

"I just never had in my mind I would buy an island one day, but when it came up, I thought, 'I just have to have it.'

"Life is short."

Mr Becky is now the proud owner of Worthington Island, off the coast of Gladstone, which he bought for "well under" the asking price of $385,000.

The 27-hectare island has an off-the grid beach shack and a private airstrip.

"It's not what everybody thinks of palm trees and white sand," Mr Becky said.

"it's more mangroves and crabbing and fishing. It's like a big bush block with a shack on it.

"It's really relaxing have a fish, have a nap, go for a walk around.

"It's beautiful, I love it."

But the lifestyle does not come without challenges Mr Becky doesn't get much in return for his rates, with no-one to pick up the weekly rubbish and access to the island is at the mercy of the tides.

But for this island owner, the benefits far outweigh the inconveniences.

"Everything is on island time," he said.

"The thing I love is that there are no neighbours."

The sale of islands is consistent with buying patterns since the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ).

"What we are seeing is that many people are wanting to buy regional properties because of the lifestyle," REIQ chief executive Antonia Mercorella said.

But she said it was difficult to gauge whetherthe obsession with space would remain when things got backto normal.

"Before you invest, I think you really need to think about the practicalities of it," Ms Mercorella said.

"In some cases the island can be quite remote and difficult and expensive to get to.

"It's not something you would buy for the purpose of flipping you would want to be buying it with the view to perhaps holding onto it for the longer term."

Judging by available listings, an island lifestyle can be achieved for any price.

Poole Island in the Whitsundays has a million dollar price tag, while Temple Island off the coast of Mackay is on the market for $1.7m.

Or, if you've got a spare $15m, perhaps Marble Island off the central Queensland coast is more to your liking.

Mr Vanhoff said the lengthy lockdowns in southern states over the past two years had made the freedom of island living hugely appealing.

"People are sitting back in those areas that are in restrictions thinking about life and thinking about their future," he said.

"I guess islands come to mind they go, 'Oh, wouldn't we like to do that, that would be great, we wouldn't have to put up with this.'

"I get the odd call when there is a big lotto being presented.

"They'll ring me and get all the information out of me and get all excitedbecause their clairvoyant told them they would win and then they don't win.

"But it's all good fun."

Ms Mercorella said while private islands were being marketed more regularly, their sale remained unusual.

"It's probably a fantasy that many of us have," she said.

"But I think for the majority of us, practicality and reality probably sets in and prevents us from making the choice."

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Private islands for sale in Queensland going cheap, but lifestyle has ...

Looking for your dream home? Discover our definitive selection of luxury private islands for sale

We all dream of a classic, private, get-away-from-it-all, island retreat, don't we?

White sand beaches. Turquoise blue water. Coconut palms. Tropical cocktails. Or rocky shores, picturesque cliffs, invigorating ocean breezes, and long walks.

Whatever types of private, luxury islands you dream of (or perhaps the perfect private island for sale that you are looking for right now), whether they are located in the Caribbean and South Pacific, the USA and Canada, or Europe and the UK -- JamesEdition has them all.

You can buy a private island online with the help of a variety of highly trusted, responsive private island brokers and agents on our website. If you are interested in learning price ranges, what your favorite island costs, and how to buy a private island in 2020, then take a look at our new article.

Luxury, private islands listed for sale in the Caribbean

The greatest pleasure in life is lying on a beach with a fresh cocktail, enjoying the smooth flow of life, and watching the ocean from your very own private, luxury island, right?

The Caribbeans volcanic origin gave birth to over 7000 unbelievably beautiful islands, each with a unique character and atmosphere. The Bahamas, for instance, represent a rich variety of perfect, tropical, private islands beloved by billionaires -- partly because of their ideal location: northwest of the Turks and Caicos Islands, southeast of the US state of Florida, and east of the Florida Keys.

When searching for a perfect, private, luxury island for sale within the Caribbean, we highly recommend taking a closer look at Exuma, one of the most desirable districts in the Bahamas.

Another ideal destination to buy a private island is Belize, a breathtakingly gorgeous country in Central America, to the east of the Caribbean Sea. Or even neighboring Panama, which has several, fantastic, private, luxury islands you can buy in the Caribbean.

Fantastic private islands set for sale in the USA

As the most diverse country in terms of culture, landscape, and geography, the USA offers a wide variety of private islands for sale. From the largest, resort-like Islamorada, Duck Key and Conch Key within the Florida Keys, and islands of the Hawaii region, to the smallest and most affordable private islands in Connecticut and Minnesota, here you will definitely find a place that you love.

And if you prefer a more northern lifestyle, when searching for the most suitable luxury island for sale in the USA, you could consider the state of New York which is close to the Canadian border, or the northern states of Wisconsin and Michigan nearby. And if you wish to go even further north, in Alaska, there are remote and beautiful private, luxury islands for sale.

For the most sophisticated buyer, there even is a chance for you to buy one of the most expensive, private, luxury islands near Manhattan.

The best, private, luxury islands possible to buy in Canada

Speaking of the North, youll be pleased to know that, in Canada, you can buy a variety of private islands. We highly recommend taking a closer look at the Great Lakes Basin, which is divided between Canada and the USA. The region is as striking and marvelous as it is huge; its territory is comparable in size to the United Kingdom. The vast expanse of territory means that your odds of finding the perfect, private, luxury island for sale here are high.

When searching for your ideal, private, northern land, dont forget the Nova Scotia region. And if you want to combine the privacy of a luxury island with lively and vibrant big city life, then Ontario or Vancouver may appeal to you.

Gorgeous private islands listed for sale in Europe and the UK

The diverse and geographically rich European continent has much to offer as well. When searching for your very best, secluded retreat, take a look at private, luxury islands listed for sale in Europe.

These islands range from the colorful, southern, largest private islands with their stunning mansions to buy in the Mediterranean (especially in Greece and Croatia) to fully secluded and literally hidden northern private islands for sale in Norway.

And if you turn your attention to the British Isles, youll find elegant England, distinctive Scotland, and charming Ireland where you might find a private, luxury island listed for sale along with a gorgeous, medieval castle.

Exclusive private islands you can buy in the South Pacific

If you dream of waking up next to the ocean, being in touch with nature, and spending your vacations on one of the stunning, private islands in the South Pacific, there are plenty listed for sale.

The South Pacific represents a unique chance to escape from everyone--and not just to a magnificent and private, luxury island somewhere in the middle of the ocean--but to the most untamed yet calmest parts of the planet: Australia or New Zealand, for instance. Nature in this part of the world is incomparable with anywhere else, which makes the land attractive to buyers from all over the globe.

If the islands around these two countries do not seem far-flung enough, take note of Fiji, located a little to the east between Australia and New Zealand. Fiji is a unique, natural area famed for its fascinating landscapes, white sand beaches, and coral reefs with turquoise lagoons.

Or, if you are more into an Asian atmosphere, we highly recommend taking a look at private, luxury islands listed for sale in the Seychelles and Philippines as well as the beloved and popular Maldives.

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Luxury private islands for sale | JamesEdition