Sir Richard’s Branson’s Necker Island has re-opened after the fire that destroyed the main house two years ago.
The house, that famously saw Kate Winslet rescue the tycoon’s mum during the fire in August 2011, has undergone a two-year restoration and has re-joined the Virgin Limited Edition collection for rental to guests.
These snapshots show the final exterior and interior layout of the new Great House, which has been remodelled on the original, with the addition of some design twists.
Inspired by the features and Balinese style of the original structure, the new Great House (above) offers panoramic views of the Caribbean, the Atlantic and neighbouring islands.
Each of the eight bedrooms has a balcony, and all come with king-size beds and en-suite bathrooms. On the upper level is the Master Suite, which is a whopping 1,500 square feet and has been designed for views from virtually every angle. It also includes a two-person Jacuzzi, a stand-alone outdoor bath and a kitchenette area with a fully-stocked fridge.
The Great House has an expansive outdoor terrace with hammocks and sofas and a large dining table. There’s a fully-stocked bar for favourite cocktails and up on the roof, the crow’s nest has stunning views, as well as a Jacuzzi – perfect for sipping champagne as you watch the sun set. A zip-line can quickly transport guests from the Great House terrace all the way down to the sandy white beaches.
Sir Richard Branson said: “Necker Island has been my home for more than 30 years and for me it is the most beautiful place in the world. The brand new Great House is the heart of the island and I’m thrilled with the results. This signals a new dawn for Necker, which I’m very excited about.”
The whole island, which includes nine bedrooms in the Great House and six individual Bali Houses dotted around the island and can sleep 30 people costs $60,000 per night. But there are Celebration Weeks when individual rooms are available.
