5 of the world’s most romantic private islands available for hire

Existing in isolation from the rest of the world, private islands are, by their very nature, romantic. Think white beaches, glittering turquoise seas, and total seclusion from the rest of the world. But there are some getaways which, through superior service or their truly exceptional location, offer the ultimate romantic break for two. So pour yourself a glass of Champagne, put your feet up, and prepare to disappear into a haze of romantic bliss, as we take a whistle-stop tour around some of the world’s most beautiful private islands. Royal Belize, Belize Cayes, Belize Resting in a World Heritage Marine Reserve, this 7.5 acre island is the epitome of luxury travel, with a full staff including a manager, chef and concierge on hand to ensure a unique island getaway. Enjoy a romantic break with your partner, or take advantage of the three villas on the island (it sleeps 18) and relax with your family – this beautiful island can cater for both types of holidays. While you might be tempted to simply lie back and admire the palm trees and aqua waters, make time to enjoy some fun activities too; jet ski-ing, scuba diving, sailing and paddle boards are all on offer here. Cousine Island, Seychelles Set to open in April 2016, Cousine Island boasts that it is ‘one of the most ecologically important islands on earth’ – and it’s easy to see why. Hawksbill and Green turtles, Aldabra giant tortoises, and numerous other species of animals and birds inhabit this special island, with revenue from the hotel reinvested into the long-term sustainability of this wildlife habitat. Island accommodation comes in the form of four luxury villas and one Presidential Villa, which offers two en-suite bedrooms, a private gym, spa, and rooms for a private au pair, chamber lady and butler. In addition, ‘The Pavilion’ offers a fresh water pool, open-air dining and lounge areas, library and a bar. In short, this is luxury personified. Petit St. Vincent, Grenadines Either rent the whole of this 115-acre island, or hire one of its 22 one-bedroom cottages or two-bedroom villas – the choice is yours. Either way, you’ll enjoy every romantic luxury you can think of, from a deserted island picnic just a powerboat ride away, to a 150-minute couples treatment at the hillside spa. Each cottage comes with indoor and outdoor dining areas, along with a host of luxury amenities – think Bose iPod docking stations, Nespresso coffee machines, Bvlgari toiletries and Italian linens and you get the picture. Activities on offer on the island include gourmet experiences, yoga, watersports and diving. Beach barbeques are also held on a regular basis – but if you’d rather enjoy the fare in a more secluded setting, staff can arrange for your own private chef and butler to create a twilight dining experience for you at one of the island’s more hidden settings. Tagomago Island, off Ibiza, Spain If Europe is your preferred destination, then Tagomago Island is a great option. Just a stone’s throw away from Ibiza town, Tagomago is the ideal solution for those who love the vibrancy of Ibiza but need a hideaway in which to relax. The island’s only villa is, not surprisingly, a luxury, five double en suite bedroom affair, with its own swimming pool, whirlpool, steam bath and sauna. There are also several ‘toys’ available, in the form of two Seadoo jet-skis, a Mangusta 108 yacht, and a Boston Whaler 320 vessel, as well as a separate apartment for staff. Naturally, breathtaking views come as standard. Little Whale Cay, Berry Islands, Bahamas Just three houses host visitors to this beautiful island, which pioneer Wallace Groves developed in the 1930s as his own little bit of paradise. But what houses they are, with studies, bars, and external dining areas just some of the highlights of these three properties. With a total of 13 staff, including a personal chef and a masseur, a sea-view infinity pool, tennis court, yoga deck and gym, on Little Whale Cay, every whim is catered for. And that’s before you even start to consider the endless menu options. Activities on the 93-acre island range from water ski-ing to hiking excursions, so while relaxation is compulsory, boredom is certainly not an option. And when you’ve finished exploring the island, you can rest your weary head in your own private island house. Luxury indeed.