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Thinking of a warm-weather retreat? Circle the British Virgin Islands
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A partial view of the spacious and amazingly unique Sugar Mill property at Nail Bay Resort
Close your eyes. For a moment let your mind drift away from chilly northern winds and swirling leaves. Instead, imagine lying on a palm tree-framed beach watching the sun set on a yacht harbor as you sip a pina colada. Eyes open now—you’re pampering your mind and body in the British Virgin Islands.
My son Michael and I absorbed exactly that, feeling the warm Caribbean sunshine on our skin, dining like royalty and leisurely exploring the beauty of Virgin Gorda and Tortola during our week’s stay. To better relate our experiences, the first of this four-part article series shines the spotlight on Nail Bay Resort for our first four days in BVI; the second part will highlight what to do in Virgin Gorda and the yummy dining opportunities; the third details the Moorings-Marina Inn in Tortola; and lastly I’ll offer insights on good eats on that island as well plus a sampling of activities to enjoy.
So let’s begin. Anytime you can combine the elements of a breathtaking view, first-class amenities and accommodations with a unique twist, you’ve got something special indeed. Such awaited us in Virgin Gorda at the Nail Bay Resort (www.nailbay.com). It’s old-hat to say you feel like family here, but in fact that’s truly how the staff treats you. Walk into their office and people stop what they’re doing to greet you, to offer assistance, to ask how the day is going. That stellar attitude starts at the top with Managing Director Ajit Mathew George and includes the groundskeepers and wait staff … smiles and warmth all around. There’s more to come about Ajit—a delightfully gregarious and interesting fellow—and our memorable dinner with him in the next sequel.
The Sugar Mill House is part of the resort’s 148-acre offering of luxury villas. We were nestled below Gorda Peak and atop the beaches and rocky outcroppings of Savannah Bay, Little Dix Bay and Long Bay. A multi-tiered, round mill, it’s modeled after a 19th-century sugar mill as the name suggests. And get this: the rooftop floor has a BBQ, dining area and an infinity pool overlooking Tortola and St. John. The ground floor room also has its own pool amid a flower garden—once we saw a hummingbird flitting around. The terraces, balconies and porthole windows reveal a cascading waterfall from the rooftop pool, with three levels containing a full kitchen, king bed and huge separate showering areas with bathrooms. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind property.
Nail Bay’s villas dot the mountainside, offering a selection of studios, suites, apartments and houses along with a wing of hotel rooms where the office and restaurant are located. Modern conveniences include satellite TV and Sirius Radio, internet Wi-Fi as well as DVD players and iPod stations. It’s easy to see why Nail Bay Resort has been recommended by Frommer’s and was named the best value in Virgin Gorda by Travel+Leisure magazine.
We treasured our stay at Nail Bay Resort, allowing us walking access to beaches for snorkeling—gear available from the office—swimming and exploring. We loved the restaurant and bar, a nice respite for lunch and a tropical drink.
When we return to the BVIs, you can guess where we’ll be tossing the bags in Virgin Gorda. Never been there? That’s got to change, just as you’ll be changed after visiting this quiet, alluring island. If you need to recharge the psyche or escape for a romantic happening, rest assured that you won’t be disappointed with Nail Bay Resort.
In the next article you’ll meet the most hospitable Cumba Smith, our six-foot, six-inch tour guide on Virgin Gorda, and I’ll acquaint you with the island’s unique landmarks.
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