Is This Private Island Resort The Privatest Of All Private Island Resorts?
The following article was originally posted on GQ Australia.
There are plenty of resorts, hotels and, in this modern age, Airbnbs that will boast that the experience of staying there is more 'money can't buy', more exclusive and more luxurious than any other. But on the spectrum of things that get you the closest to actually going full Branson and owning your own island in the middle of the Caribbean, we'd be willing to bet that the Gladden Island Resort is probably on the furthest extreme.
Gladden Island sits in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, where it sits under the legal jurisdiction of Belize. It's little more than a remote stretch of sand and trees "20 miles off the coast of Placencia, Belize," and is shielded on all sides by the Belize Barrier Reef system. This makes it virtually inaccessible by large ships and, as such, almost untouched by human civilisation. Well, until now at least, because one company has thrown a private resort onto it.
Access to the island itself can only be managed in two ways — by private helicopter or speedboat — after which you'll essentially have your own private tropical playground. Access to the surrounding waters and activities like snorkeling and scuba diving is uninhibited, with staff on-call only for meals and housekeeping. An organic garden on the island ensures fresh produce is grown year round, which is then paired with fish taken from the surrounding waters and an extensive wine collection. Staff are also on-hand for a number of relaxation services, including facials, manicures, pedicures and massages.
"A swirl of turquoise and aquamarine lagoons cradle Gladden, an island fringed with coral and white sand in the heart of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System. This island jewel harbors your own private sanctuary, a casually elegant villa designed for just one couple, with the all-inclusive service of a luxury resort," reads an official description of the Gladden Private Island Resort experience.
"There is a second master suite should you wish to share Gladden with friends or family. Our staff resides unseen on the smaller island behind Gladden, ready to respond to any request at a moment’s notice. A “privacy meter” indicates if a member of the team is on the main island for any reason, because we want our guests to feel free to be themselves. There are no other neighbors – it’s just you and the views."
Learn more about Gladden Private Island and check availability