Contrary to the intentional ostentation on neighboring St. Barths, Anguilla is a refreshing paragon of understated exclusivity. Long known in small circles as the Caribbean’s seductive secret hideaway, Anguilla showcases the Caribbean’s most crystalline waters and boasts a judicious selection of unpretentious, upscale accommodations. The island’s most recent addition, Ani Villas (+1.264.497.7888, www.anivillas.com), is redefining Caribbean luxury and taking a progressive stance in an otherwise homophobic part of the world. Indeed, Ani Villas welcomes the GLBT community with open arms and has already hosted the who’s who of the gay world just five short months after opening!
Distinguished and luxurious, yet humble and simple, the two-villa estate exudes an intrinsic magnificence much like its island host. Perched over the cliffs of magical Little Bay, the two villas function as either mutually exclusive entities or a single, grand estate. Separated as the North and South Villas, the two similar 5-bedroom, 10,000 square-foot luxury homes commingle tropical elegance with Scandinavian design prowess, championing a sleek modernism that feeds off the island’s core elements. The fundamentals of earth, air and water are evidenced by alternating walls of textured raw woods and exceptionally appointed hardwood furnishings, lofty floor to ceiling windows, glass balconies and an open floor plan five stories tall, complemented by tranquil water gardens echoing the sounds of nearby crashing waves. The design draws attention to the azure serenity beyond the cliffs and the striking natural panoramas.
Within the villas, every last detail honors the immaculate taste, sophistication and worldly sagacity of its jet setting developers, Ira and Bonnie Bloom. For example, bedrooms are endowed with one of the world’s most high-end mattresses – Serta Enrapture Double Pillow Top. Furnishing concepts were envisaged on the couple’s intrepid travels through Indonesia, resulting in timeless pieces like the custom-made 1700-pound hard-wood kitchen table, shipped from Asia as an entire tree trunk and the crafted in country. Furthermore, the clean Scandinavian design stems from Bonnie’s Danish heritage and passion for exquisite symmetries.
Indeed, the remarkable interiors are a strong opening act for the sumptuous exteriors. Engrossed in an amalgamation of desert, tropical and indigenous landscaping, the seductive infinity pools, expansive lounge areas and raised hot tubs (positioned near the cliffs’ edge) channel sweet rapture, capturing the island’s beauty over vast panoramic vantage points. Come nightfall, polished tree stumps and dimly lit tiki torches welcome long nights of stargazing and contemplation.
Directly below the villas, accessible by a short walking trail, the island’s top snorkeling spot teems with marine life. Outdoor enthusiasts will also enjoy the Villa’s private tennis court, mountain biking trails, clubs for use at the neighboring Greg Norman-designed championship golf course and kayaks for exploring Little Bay. And when privacy becomes too confining and the house staff all too familiar, the Caribbean’s most hospitable and gracious island eagerly awaits new explorers. Utilizing the compliment-ary house car, Anguilla’s burgeoning restaurant scene, laid back nightlife, and more of the island’s renowned crystalline waters are mere minutes away. And local boats can take you further afield to places like Sandy Island, a tiny stretch of sand with a restaurant shack and lounge chairs, serving freshly caught crayfish and lobster and Blue Rum Punch, a place that embodies the true island lifestyle.
The two villas can be rented separately or together as an Estate, but require a five-night minimum in either case. Prior to arrival, The villas managers help create a bespoke itinerary for each guest and facilitate desired activities.
For your escape to Ani Villas call 1.264.497.7888 or visit www.anivillas.com
