FIVE-STAR ESCAPES
From piste to paradise island, live the billionaire dream in Richard Branson’s retreats
1 The Lodge, Verbier
Branson’s piste-side retreat in Verbier, this five-storey chalet features an inside pool, a mini ice rink for the children, and an outside Jacuzzi; as well as a room for ski gear with heated boot warmers and a secret doorway hidden in a bookshelf that connects the two master suites. Add a team of staff and a Michelin-star trained chef, and you’ve got yourself a party. Sleeps up to 18 adults and six children, from only $146,000 per week all-inclusive in the winter.
2 Mont Rochelle, South Africa
Perched on a hillock with 360-degree mountain views, this 26-bedroom hotel and vineyard near Cape Town has the most enviable position in Franschhoek, with beautiful gardens, classy decor and faultless service. Recently built with all the expected modern amenities, it features two pools and two restaurants. Rooms from $365 per night.
3 Son Bunyola, Majorca
This vast estate on the island’s northwest coast, part of a World Heritage site, covers 275ha of vineyards, citrus orchards and olive groves. With three luxury beach villas, Son Bunyola also boasts a 19th-century manor house, which currently sits empty. Villas from $30,000 a week.
4 Kasbah Tamadot, Morocco
Nestled in the foothills of Morocco’s Atlas Mountains, an hour’s drive from Marrakech, this luxury hideout offers opulent, mountain-view suites, as well as nine lavish Berber tents — 28 residences in total. There are indoor and outdoor pools, a spa, gym, two tennis courts, a billiard room, library and a kids club. Rooms from $800 per night.
5 Necker Island, British Virgin Islands
Branson calls Necker home, and it’s his favourite of the lot. What makes this 30ha island such a sought-after destination (for those who can afford it) is the fine balance between a sociable atmosphere and the total privacy it offers its VIP guests. The island is normally rented as a whole, but on some weeks you can book just a room. Necker is under repair following the devastation of Hurricane Irma last year but reopens in October.