There’s something oh so James Bond about bumping along a sun-streaked Caribbean road in a bright yellow Moke, complete with roosters strutting on the verges. On Anguilla, one of my favorite Caribbean islands for its stirring friendliness and understated old-school elegance, I’m buckled into the stylish, buggy-like vehicle, first developed in the UK for military purposes. Instead of careening around corners spy style, we thud at vacation pace passing colorful shingled houses poised atop blocks, meander through tiny villages, and catch the spicy-sweet fragrance of crayfish, curried chicken, and lobster on the grill at roadside restaurants. We’ve embarked on this land tour of the 35-mile, fish-hook-shaped island in search of some of its 33 sublime beaches (celebrated for their distinct personalities), lively beach-shack cafes, cloud-white sand, and turquoise waters. At intervals, we leap from the car to embrace a view, wade through the sea, gobble up a plate of blackened mahi, or sip a rum punch. Accompanied by a few of our villa’s butler and concierge staff, Lavon (who’s thankfully driving) and Sancia (whose name sounds quite a lot like my favorite French wine), we take advantage of one of the many VIP outings Altamer Luxury Villas can arrange for its guests. The two locals convey to us their favorite hotspots, regaling us with local insights and unveiling Anguillan culture from an insiders’ point of view with humor and grace.
Back at our digs, the Blue Diamond villa, one of Altamer’s three swanky residences nestled beachside at Shoal Bay West, we loll about on deck chairs in awe of the sea. Without any hotels or developments in sight, the enclave exudes private island vibes — that pampering zeitgeist underscored by attentive staff and fantastical architecture by Myron Goldfinger. Beside the pool, in the shadow of the renowned architect’s theatrical modernist villa design, we note the structure’s soaring ceilings, temple-like block shapes, floor-to-ceiling windows, and overall ethereal mindset. It’s a building conceived to deliver guests into an otherworldly place, perhaps create a dream or turn them into characters in a movie. Blame it on the rum punches but the James Bond day comes full circle. First our Moke (think: The Spy Who Loved Me), then our villa designed by an architect (who wasn’t a villain, of course) called Goldfinger. All we need now to make our own film is a gold lamé bikini or two. I’m sure Sancia knows just where to find them.
More about Altamer’s Three Villas
Occupying a perfect point on a less busy part of the island, Altamer’s intimate, villa-filled haven mirrors the island’s overall quietude. Sequestered far enough away from the island’s buzz to ensure a secluded party if desired, the resort site also invites tranquility and pure relaxation. Incorporating an expansive 13,000-square-feet with 21-foot ceilings, Blue Diamond features four identical, ocean-view bedrooms with spacious bathrooms. Its exceptional bi-level principal bedroom suite, the fifth bedroom, has immense windows and high ceilings which result in a floating airiness, like being outdoors. A huge bathroom, piano, large terrace, and upstairs study complete the picture. Overall, a fitness center, professional kitchen, entertainment/movie room, large living area, and various outdoor nooks, plus a swimming pool and hot tub, provide plenty of space for multiple guests. Next door, Antilles Pearl is situated to allow privacy, but, just steps away, it also lies close enough to allow for large groups to rent both homes, and share common areas. Similar to Blue Diamond, but a shade smaller, it has five bedrooms (one a principal bedroom suite), an entertainment room, large kitchen, elevator, 50-foot skywalk, and lovely outdoor swimming pool. Just behind, the much smaller Petit Topaz welcomes couples or solo travelers with an open-concept bedroom and second-floor sleeping loft, plus kitchenette and plunge pool.
What’s Included
Exemplar butler, concierge, and housekeeping service distinguish Altamer Luxury Villas. (Another of our affable butler/concierges, Head Butler and Interim General Manager Perry accompanied us on a boat and snorkeling tour that was a highlight of our stay, thanks as much to his personality as the gin-clear waters.) Laundry, continental breakfast, turn down, itinerary planning, and more are par for the course. Off property, boat and Moke tours comprise just some of the options. At the villas, besides swimming, guests can kayak, snorkel, or play tennis, basketball, or volleyball. There are game-room toys, movie rooms, and snugs for reading.
More On Anguilla
Between British Virgin Islands and St Kitts and Nevis, just across the water from St. Maarten, Anguilla is a flat, coral-and-limestone isle, famous for its beaches and small, off-shore getaway cays — such as Sandy Island and Prickly Pear (which both serve the universe’s best lobster). Gastronomy overall rules on this sophisticated but laid-back destination, with buzzy restaurants such as Sharkys and Jacala at the top of the list. Characteristic beach shacks across the island also turn out superb food, while often renting out beach chairs and equipment. Don’t miss Blanchards on Mead’s Bay. Even in season, Anguilla never feels thronged or touristy. Part of that’s due to the fact that Anguilla long ago decided to eschew cruise ships, malls, casinos, and duty-free shops in an effort to stay low key, local, and authentic. A modern place with nostalgic old-school elegance, Anguilla is meant to be shared with friends at a stunning villa oasis such as Altamer. Just be sure to pack your gold lamé bikini.
Featured image by KSharp Media
