Tortola
British Virgin Islands


The Experience

Of all the private island resorts in the Caribbean, Peter Island -- one of the British Virgin Islands -- is one of the largest. It's also one of the most democratic: This is not simply a retreat for lovers or for CEOs (although they would feel perfectly at home); the all-inclusive resort also appeals to families and outdoor lovers of every sort. With its 1,300 acres, a stay here is not just about the sand (although there are five private beaches) or surf (there are moorings for yachts and every water sport alive); the undeveloped interior also attracts hikers, bikers and bird-watchers.

The Rooms

It's all a little cookie-cutter, but attractive enough and certainly comfortable. The somewhat generic soft furnishings have a heavy reliance on wicker, but don't get too used to them: They're being totally revamped in late 2008. Rooms fall into two categories: the 32 Oceanview rooms, housed in eight two-story A-frame cottages by the pool, and 20 Junior suites in five two-story villas with rustic stone and cedar walls facing Deadman's Bay Beach. While suites obviously offer more space, it's hard to go wrong: All 52 accommodations have sitting areas, Spanish tile baths and private balconies or terraces. The two villas -- three-bedroom Hawk's Nest and four-bedroom Crow's Nest, both renovated in 2004 -- have personal staffs and pools, and will be joined by a six-bedroom villa in 2007.

The Service

As in most all-inclusive resorts where virtually all activities, amenities and instruction are included, the atmosphere is easygoing. Yet the staff go out of their way to go above and beyond. If they know a couple are celebrating a honeymoon or anniversary, they'll serve them dinner by candlelight on the beach. They'll also prepare a picnic basket complete with fine linens and china and deliver it to guests who choose to be "stranded" on White Bay Beach.

The Highlights

Peter Island's five beaches range from the nearly mile-long Big Reef Bay Beach to tiny Honeymoon Beach, just big enough for two lounge chairs under a thatch hut. Chill out on the sand or explore the island's 20 coves by boat. Return back for gourmet West Indian dinners or beachside barbecues, with views that sweep over Sir Francis Drake Channel and neighboring islands -- Tortola, St. John, Norman. Unwind in the Spa, opened in October 2004, which features treatments culled from Peter Island and its neighbors. The 10 treatment rooms have views of the ocean or tropical gardens, but better to book one of the two outdoor bohios for your West Indian Honey and Sesame Seed Glow.

-- Kathleen Beckett

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