Marvelous Mustique
The infinity pool leads to a Caribbean view at Hummingbird, one of Mustique’s luxe villas.
Where to stay and play
Written by Joan Tapper
With its glistening beaches and exclusive party atmosphere, the private Caribbean island of Mustique, part of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, has been beloved by royals and rock stars alike since it was developed in the 1960s. Of course, the rest of us are welcome, too.
There are 80 villas here, designed in styles that range from contemporary to colonial Caribbean and accommodating a couple or a crowd. They generally include private pools as well as attentive staff members like private chefs, housekeepers, and butlers.
The 13 acres of Cotton House take in a pristine beach, superior accomodations, and quaint cottages; Basil Charles presides at his eponymous bar.
For a hotel experience there’s the fabled Cotton House, originally a cotton warehouse and now a chic boutique hostelry set on 13 acres of lush gardens close to Endeavour Bay. The 17 elegantly appointed suites, villas, and cottages are furnished with tropical flair and an appreciation for privacy and comfort. With a swimming pool, spa, and gym, there’s ample space for relaxation, but the heart of the Cotton House is the Great Room Bar, a gathering place for cocktails and conversation decorated with exuberance by theatrical designer Oliver Messel, who left his mark on several of the island’s villas as well.
Eventually everyone finds their way to Basil’s Bar, the legendary watering spot on Britannia Bay. Opened in 1968 and relaunched in 2019 after a two-year renovation by Philippe Starck, it’s a frequent venue for memorable music. This winter it once again hosts the Mustique Blues Festival, from January 26 to February 9. The performances by big-name artists go beyond great entertainment: Proceeds from the festival go to the Basil Charles Educational Foundation. Information at MUSTIQUE-ISLAND.COM.
