These exclusive, off-the-beaten-track escapes are the ultimate in luxurious seclusion.
For some, the chance to get away from it all is their idea of a perfect holiday. But some destinations – those only accessible by helicopter or float plane – allow travellers to take this chance to almost unimaginable new levels. These lavish sanctuaries offer the ultimate in luxury and exclusivity and are found in some of the most incredible locations in the world. These are the kind of properties that are typically reserved for the world’s most wealthy, or those prepared to spend big to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Let’s explore five of the most exclusive properties around the world.
Minaret Station, Lake Wanaka, New Zealand
If it’s breathtaking scenery you want, New Zealand’s Southern Alps are hard to beat. The remote Minaret Station is located in a high alpine valley at an elevation of 915 metres, with superb mountain views all around. As the property is surrounded by mountains, Lake Wanaka, and National Park, the only way to reach it is by helicopter.
The site is a 50,000-acre high country working farm that’s home to 1,000 cattle, 7,000 sheep, 10,000 deer, and just four Alpine Chalets. This unique accommodation is linked by raised wooden boardwalks to the main lodge, where visitors can relax in two living areas, and enjoy first-class dining, and a well-stocked cellar and library. Each chalet has a king-size or twin beds, with ensuite bathrooms, plus a hot tub on the deck to soak up the special views. Visitors can also hop in the helicopter to enjoy a range of secluded activities, like heli-skiing, mountain biking, hiking, and fly fishing.
Winterlake Lodge, Alaska, USA
Surrounded by glaciers, rivers, pine forests, and mountains in the rugged Alaskan wilderness, Winterlake Lodge sits on 15 acres on the Iditarod Trail, to the west of the Alaska Range. The property overlooks a two-mile lake where arrivals land by floatplane or ski plane. The views are more breathtaking than you can likely imagine.
This makes it the ideal location for adventure lovers, with outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, helicopter sightseeing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, foraging, and dog mushing all on offer. Guests can stay in one of six cosy lakefront cabins and take advantage of the shared facilities and roaring fire in the main lodge, plus a cedar hot tub and wood-fired sauna.
North Island, Seychelles
When you think of luxury destinations in Seychelles, the North Island, in the far north of the Indian Ocean archipelago, ticks many boxes. This exclusive private island features 11 villas, all screened from view and made from local materials to blend in seamlessly with the environment. These open-plan residences are the ultimate in seclusion, with direct beach access and incredible ocean views. Visitors to North Island can try a wealth of exciting activities, including kayaking, paddling, and diving. There are also plenty of opportunities to unwind and rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul, with a full menu of spa treatments and sunrise yoga sessions. The island is also a haven for wildlife, including sea turtles, and there is a large focus on conservation. Truly a destination with something for everyone.
Thanda Island, Tanzania
Thanda Island is a secluded paradise surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, off the coast of Tanzania. This exclusive escape offers visitors a range of thrilling watersports and activities, like scuba diving, swimming with whale sharks, big game fishing, and more. It’s also the ideal destination to soak up the sun, relax, and enjoy its natural beauty and a private 1,100-metre beach. The island is located in the protected Shungi Mbili Island Marine Reserve, the largest protected reserve in the Indian Ocean.
Visitors will find opportunities to learn about the local culture and enjoy an unforgettable luxury dining experience tasting plenty of delicious local seafood and locally sourced fruit and vegetables. Chefs will even contact you ahead of your visit to plan out a menu tailored to your tastes.
The island offers a luxury villa with five private air-conditioned suites, an outdoor pool, plus easy access to the sea and sand, making it the perfect destination to get together with friends and family. Visitors who need a little extra space can also enjoy exclusive use of the island’s two traditional air-conditioned Tanzanian Bandas – eco lodges. Each Banda has an en-suite master bedroom and two single beds with an en-suite bathroom.
Thanda Island has a dedicated team of staff including the manager, housekeepers, guides, executive chef, hostesses and butlers, and spa therapists to look after everything you need during your stay.
Nimmo Bay, British Columbia, Canada
The journey to Nimmo Bay takes visitors over some of the most stunning scenery North America has to offer, so it’s the ideal way to start what is sure to be an unforgettable stay.
This family-owned lodge is set in the wilderness of the Great Bear Rainforest. There are nine comfortable two-bedroom cabins on site, and all your food and drink needs are taken care of.
Nature lovers will feel right at home, as this is an amazing place to safely and ethically see grizzly bears and black bears in their natural environment, as well as humpback whales and orca in the surrounding waters.
As well as looking out for some of the world’s most beautiful creatures, guests can take part in activities like hiking, kayaking, and heli-fishing. Wellness therapy is also on the agenda, with skilled practitioners offering a range of treatments, plus cedar hot tubs and a floating sauna at the base of a waterfall. Nimmo Bay offers the perfect combination of luxury and remoteness, making it a superb place for those with the wealth to afford it.
These properties offer visitors the pinnacle of remote luxury. The only thing remaining is deciding which one to choose. Fire up the rotors, spin the propellers and head for the clouds to start your journey.
