Virgin Gorda Villas by

Love tropical fruits? To enhance breakfasts or sunset cocktails, guests of Villa Valmarc can pick the papaya, mango, banana, lemon, lime, orange and carambola (star-fruit) free in their home’s extensive, lush gardens. That’s just one perk of a home that’s only a two-minute stroll from Mahoe Bay – one of Virgin Gorda’s archetypal white-sand beaches, and known for its brilliant coral-reef snorkelling. You’re also very close to Gorda Peak, for a hiking challenge, and the vibrant restaurants of Nail Bay or Spanish Town.

Understandably, however, some guests don’t even get that far. The freeform pool and its terrace’s sun loungers are hard to resist, especially with their views over tall, swaying palms and turquoise sea to the distant Dog Islands. Those can also be admired from covered patios that encourage al fresco dining or lounging as breezes flutter in.

Behind, Valmarc consists of two freestanding pavilions. The main one hosts a vast ‘great room’ which encompasses dining, entertaining and cooking areas – the latter a large, modern kitchen and casual island sitting bar – below high, airy ceilings. Flanking this are two ensuite, bright bedrooms which each open onto the terrace. Valmarc’s second building splits two more ensuite rooms and their private decks across a pair of floors – with the upstairs version actually a studio apartment and kitchenette. Exotic, glass-walled outdoor showers accompany two of the bedrooms.