SUPER VILLAS TAILOR-MADE FOR SUMMER GATHERINGS
Picture the scene : three or four generations of family gather together on the expansive terrace of a sparkling white villa , surrounded by lush tropical gardens and overlooking cerulean seas . Smiling staff deliver sundowners and sushi , while grandparents catch up with younger family members about their fun day exploring the island , teenagers take each other on in a pickleball game , and parents simply relax to the sound of waves gently lapping the shore and friendly chatter .
The Beach House
Sounds like the vacation of dreams doesn ’ t it ? And yet all of that and more is easily achievable with a stay at one of Little Harbour Estates super villas on the paradise island of Anguilla in the British Caribbean .
Managing Director Danielle Barker says “ As a family-owned and run business , our villas were designed to appeal to large family groups and they have always made up a significant proportion of bookings throughout the year . Since the pandemic though , that proportion has dramatically increased from around 45 % to over 80 %.”
Barker notes that these groups often book across the summer months , primarily to coincide with long school holidays for those in the northern hemisphere , with the added incentive of lowerpriced flights and lower rates for accommodation . Late April to October is considered to be low season in the Caribbean , yet the temperature is consistently in the high twenties all year round , with an average 8.3 hours of sunshine every day .
The ‘ bank of Mum and Dad ’, or BoMaD , often comes into play , with one grandparent or parent often taking the role of party lead .
“ What ’ s great for our guests in working with a small independent business such as ours is that once the party lead has done the hard work of finding dates to suit everyone in the group , we look after literally everything else ” explains Barker .
From detailed dietary preference sheets to bespoke activities and excursions for the group to take part in together or in smaller subsets , the Little Harbour Estates team has it covered .
Le Bleu
Through consultation with Executive Chef ( and island legend ) Kelston ‘ Sweets ’ Connor ahead of the stay , and personal collaboration during their stay , guests can be assured of the highest quality dining served in the style , and location , that suits them best . Options include full kosherisation and other specialist diets , as well as children ’ s menus . Dine on the pool deck , among the gardens , on the terrace , in the dining room or even on the beach , toes in the sand .
THE ART OF LUXURY ISSUE 69 2025