Necker Island, Sir Richard Branson’s most famed home and private hideaway in the British Virgin Islands, has completed an extensive re-build after more than two and a half years of works following the devastating effects of Hurricane Irma.
With the installation of three giant wind turbines – alongside a revived conservation program, new accommodation complexes and an interior redesign – Necker Island is back and more sustainable than ever.
Guests visiting in 2021 are among the first to experience the new Necker, which accommodates a total of 40 people across 30 hectares of paradise. The now 11-bedroom The Great House – known as the heart of the island – has been meticulously restored to its former glory, complete with an additional two guest rooms. The ground floor is home to a playful bunk room, sleeping up to six children, and on the upper level is the stunning Master Suite, which boasts a private outdoor hot tub and sundeck offering some of the best sunrise views on the island.
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Most notably new to the island is the rebuilt Bali Hi complex with three individual suites, which, perched cliffside, have the luxury of overlooking the turquoise waters of both Turtle Beach and Flamingo Beach. All of the suites at the multi-level Balinese-inspired complex are individually designed, offering a unique sense of charm. While each comes with its own private deck area, two rooms are additionally fitted with their own outdoor plunge pools with soaring views. Communally, an expansive undercover terrace area brings the space together, used for dining and lounging by the infinity pool that has vistas across to neighbouring islands.
Temple House has also been completely renovated, offering a brand-new guest experience across its two standalone primary rooms and communal areas. Situated in the middle of the island, the structure’s curved high beam ceilings ascend into a sky-lit temple. A pool table, seven-seater bar, outdoor infinity pool and wrap-around terrace completes Temple House, which offers sunset views across the island.
Sustainability has been front and centre of the Necker Island rebuild from the very beginning. Three giant wind turbines have been installed, which, combined with a solar farm of more than 1,230 panels, enables the island to run at up to 100 per cent renewable energy each day. This furthers the island’s commitment towards sustainability, propelling its goal of eliminating fossil fuel consumption and achieving net zero by 2030.
Alongside the extensive recycling program implemented across the island, installation of a water tank allows up to 300,000 gallons of water to be collected, repurposed and used for irrigation.
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Bamboo straws replaced the use of plastic straws on the island several years ago, which supports the elimination of single-use plastic bottles; sustainable food sourcing and minimal food miles are at the heart of restaurant menus, and brand-new island uniforms made from recycled plastic from the ocean have also just launched.
Necker Island is mostly available for exclusive use bookings from US$105,000 per night, but during selected weeks of the year, the island opens up ‘hotel style’, allowing guests to book individual rooms, or in smaller groups. Rates per couple during a ‘Celebration Week’ start from US$5,150 per room, per night. There is also a bunkroom in The Great House that sleeps up to six children at a rate from US$3,500 per night.
As part of the luxurious all-inclusive stay, guests of Necker Island enjoy luxury accommodations, all meals and drinks served in a variety of locations, activities, return launch transfers from Virgin Gorda or Beef Island airports, and a dedicated team of staff who provide the exceptional personalised service.