It was a crystal-clear day as I soared in the helicopter over the British Virgin Islands. My destination was a dramatic new estate that billionaire Sir Richard Branson had just built. At the time, I was the first journalist to photograph his mysterious top-secret outpost on the stunning private Caribbean Island. And almost a decade later, the now famous island has introduced a billionaire residential community called Moskito featuring four spectacular villas.
The 125-acre private island has been a vacation destination for elite guests since 2014 when the private villas were rented independently. Now, Moskito launches as a leading luxury brand, as four visionary homeowners have decided to rent their private homes, combining the intimacy of private estates with the offerings of luxury resorts.
The new ultra-exclusive community offers high-end travelers the ability to rent The Oasis, The Point, The Village and the recently launched Cape Stout estates.
Each villa hosts about 20 guests, who can use the island’s three beaches, botanical gardens, swimming pools and various bars. Two tennis courts, hiking trails, a fully equipped gym and a water sports center are available to all island guests. Every estate has its own unique attraction; The Point is designed for friends and families, the Village is for celebrations (complete with its own DJ booth that rises out of its dance floor) and the Oasis is for corporate retreats. And now, the newly launched Cape Stout is the ideal home for design lovers and thrill-seekers.
The estate owners have personally designed them with leading architects and interior designers, and while they only personally visit a few weeks a year, they have opened their homes to the ultimate villa vacation. The company says, “This luxury style of living embraces the concept of chartering a home, which is becoming increasingly popular.”
Each estate is staffed by a team devoted to ensuring that the estate and guests’ time on the estate is perfect. The estate manager, head chef and guest services manager oversee a team responsible for housekeeping, gardening and seamless, round-the-clock guest services.
At $10,000 per person for a week, you just need 99 friends to join you to experience the “Million Dollar Week” package, where up to 100 people can stay, play, drink and dine to their hearts’ content. All rates include three round-trip airport transfers per estate. Normal rates are $25,000 per night.
The Village
Nestled on a cliff overlooking Moskito Island’s western shores, this estate offers a spectacular setting for celebrations and to witness incredible sunsets. Private suites accommodate up to 18 guests and are ideal for shared experiences. There are three treetop cottages, two suites, three beach cottages, and one large primary suite.
The Oasis
Located at the highest point of the island, this estate is designed to resemble a super yacht, providing stunning 360-degree views of the sea. It features eleven suites that can accommodate up to 22 guests. The modern and sleek design, with an emphasis on warmth and wellness, makes it an ideal choice for large families or corporate retreats. The property includes a large infinity pool with a waterfall and swim-up bar that connects to the main four-story residence through various poolside pods. Floor-to-ceiling windows and doors blend the indoor spaces with the natural surroundings, offering an immersive connection with nature.
The Point
Positioned on a cliffside on the island’s southern end, the Point offers stunning views of the reef break and provides direct access to Manchioneel Beach just a few steps below. The property can accommodate up to 16 adults and eight children in separate guest suites, making it perfect for groups of friends and families who want a mix of shared experiences and personal relaxation. At the center of the estate is the Great Room, surrounded by an infinity pool that seamlessly blends with the horizon. It also includes spacious communal dining areas, luxurious seating, a hot tub and a sunken bar with a fire pit.
Cape Stout
Cape Stout is a new six-building estate located on the tip of Moskito Island that was built to maximize both sunset and sunrise views. The large main infinity pool has edges on both the north and west sides, while multiple terraces provide dramatic views of the crashing waves below the cliff. Steps made of Ipe hardwood and flagstone form a path down to the secluded, sandy Honeymoon Beach. In the HQ, the property’s social hub, a canal-like pool winds its way through the ground floor through indoor and outdoor spaces.
The estate’s eight suites include the romantic Clifftop suite with a private pool garden and the Salt and Sand suites that accommodate children as well. The Beach Barn—with three queen and five full beds—is designed to resemble a sleeper train. There are billiards, multiple hot tubs, and a basketball court that doubles as an amphitheater for outdoor movie nights, sporting events, and competitions. The estate is also equipped with a brand new, 42-foot powerboat that comfortably holds 12 guests and three crew members, perfect for exploring BVI’s North Sound and beyond.
This article was first published on forbes.com and all figures are in USD.
