To understand the lure of Mustique is simple – it is one of the last of the truly private and exclusive places in the Caribbean. As part of the Grenadines, it is relatively easy to reach, but is an entirely private locale that remains a preferred getaway for the “jet set”. Long a retreat for the famous, royal and supremely successful, it is the ideal spot for those who appreciate pristine beauty, peace, and luxury.
Owned by homeowners who comprise the Mustique Company, the island’s gorgeous natural charms remain intact, and yet all of the comforts and amenities one might need are readily available. Beach bars, dining rooms, activities of all kinds, and even “movie nights” beneath the stars are part of a visit to Mustique, but so too is an eco-friendly array of properties that are available to those discerning travelers who want to enjoy a lot of personal space.
A wonderful menu of villas as well as two small and discreet hotels allow travelers to choose their ideal setting, and then begin enjoying the many activities available on this gorgeous, private paradise.
A Bit About Mustique
To understand why it is so appealing, it is good to take a look back in time. The island was purchased outright by Lord Glenconner, Colin Tennant more than half a century ago. At that time, it was an undeveloped place, though there was a defunct sugar mill and plantation.
Eventually, small and conscientiously designed properties appeared, with the first being the home of an English royal. Over time, the exquisite privacy afforded to travelers welcomed to the island ensured that it remained as idyllic and beautiful as possible, even as world-famous actors, musicians, and socialites discovered it.
With a large number of the villas designed by Oliver Messel, the island is now a luxurious retreat for those who appreciate the absence of “resort-like” structures and settings (no buildings are taller than any trees). Instead, travelers can easily explore the three and a half square miles of the island, discovering the nine different beaches, the scattering of shops, the three restaurants, and the endless scenery.
Visiting Mustique
Reaching Mustique is part of the appeal. Travelers can depart from St. Lucia or Barbados and arrive on the island’s small, private air strip in less than an hour. Regular chartered flights make this easy, and a view from the Twin Otter aircraft provides an unprecedented experience of the Grenadines in general.
Upon arrival, arrange for your transportation of choice and head directly to the Cotton House to get oriented or straight to your Mustique villa. You can find tiny properties with private gardens and plunge pools or larger villas with room for a family and surrounded by many activities to enjoy.
Beaches, watersports, tennis and horseback riding, children’s activities, and the spa and fitness options ensure you have plenty to keep you active, or entirely relaxed, throughout a stay. Though there are nine beaches spread out over the 1400 acres of the island, Macaroni Beach is considered the most famous and popular. Those who wish for privacy can choose from Atlantic or Caribbean oriented spots, and even arrange for picnics at several of them.
Traveling the island is simple thanks to the large number of eco-friendly, and wildlife friendly, golf carts that can traverse the different paths. Walking and horseback riding paths are also a common and easy way to explore the island, and bicycles are also readily available.
The Lure of Mustique is not a mystery – it is a private paradise that has been protected and preserved to the greatest extent imaginable. It is a combination of Robinson Crusoe and the most luxurious getaway imaginable, making any stay otherworldly and unforgettable.
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