Calivigny Island

Paradise island, oPeaceful havens, crystal-clear beaches—there's no shortage of adjectives to describe Calivigny Island, this prestigious Caribbean destination boasting sumptuous private villas that delight the elite and privileged tourists. Given the beauty of the place, it's no wonder it's considered one of the most exclusive paradisiacal retreats in the world.

Louise Bourbonnais

Celebrities are rarely seen on vacation. Yet, they travel a lot. If you're one of those who wonder where wealthy people go to unwind during their holidays, know that there are many destinations, and one of them is Calivigny Island, off the coast of Grenada in the Caribbean.

Given Calivigny Island's reputation for unparalleled luxury, my excitement was palpable when, aboard a luxurious private yacht, I glimpsed the island, whose renown is unquestionable, appearing in my field of vision after leaving Grenada behind. A truly breathtaking experience!

As our yacht prepares to dock, I count a dozen people neatly lined up on the island's private dock, forming a veritable guard of honor. All uniformed staff members, all smiles, ready to welcome us, offering us a glass of champagne as soon as we step onto the dock. The wonder is palpable.

Everything here exudes elegance. The place is sublime, a veritable treasure hidden between the mountains and the turquoise sea, unfolding like a painting on the edge of an endless mirage. I can't help but feel a profound sense of gratitude for the privilege of staying in this haven, described as the secret destination of the rich and famous, even though I am not part of the elite. We are just a small group of journalists invited to witness the sublime beauty of this place. Here, it's impossible to remain unmoved by the pervasive sense of peace and serenity.

I had read that Melinda Gates had taken refuge here during her divorce from Bill Gates. Other prestigious names circulate among the VIP clientele, but the staff are very tight-lipped about it. They want to preserve the anonymity of their privileged clientele at all costs.

 Island for rent

Calivigny remained an uninhabited island for a long time before being bought in 2001 by French billionaire Georges Cohen to turn it into a paradise for wealthy clients.

Although the island comprises several buildings spread over 80 hectares, including two large villas with 18 suites and three beachfront bungalows, it is rented to only one group at a time. This is what is known as an exclusive holiday.

The architectural style is a happy blend of Balinese and French styles, all decorated with refinement by renowned designers such as Oscar de la Renta, where Italian marble is featured prominently.

The walls adorned with paintings and the sculptures placed here and there add to the luxurious atmosphere and remind us that we are in a place reserved for the elite. A veritable private paradise that can be rented for a weekend, a week, or longer, if your budget allows. Because, of course, this luxury comes at a price.

Rates including meals and activities start at US$132,000 per night, depending on the season. But for that price, you or your group have six pristine sandy beaches, five swimming pools, tropical gardens, terraces with spectacular views, and much more, all to yourself. Located on the border between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, each beach has its own unique charm.

Although most people go there for relaxation, there are still many activities available.

On site, there is a fitness center, a tennis court, a billiards room, jogging or cycling trails flooded by a tropical greenhouse.

Otherwise, the full range of usual water sports equipment is available. Windsurfing, flyboarding, jet skiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, and scuba diving – it's all there.

Not the sporty type? Then opt for a yoga session, a seaside massage or a cooking class, which will also give you the opportunity to visit the island's organic garden.

French chefs offering personalized, high-end menus are on hand to cater to the expectations of discerning guests during their stay. Japanese, French, or Italian cuisine—the choice is yours. Naturally, fresh fruit and seafood, caught daily, are featured, as are barbecues on the beach.

In the evening, giant screens on the beach will delight film enthusiasts. To close out the day, fireworks on the beach demonstrated that the festivities know no bounds.

Excursions in the surrounding area

Calivigny offers a fleet of boats with captains on site, available to meet the desires of its discerning clientele. Whether it's for a romantic sunset cruise, deep-sea fishing, or simply exploring the surrounding islands, anything is possible.

For my part, I opted for an island-hopping cruise. Several islands are pristine and completely uninhabited. It's a wonderful way to explore coral reefs surrounded by crystal-clear waters, provided you don't forget your snorkel. A stop on the neighboring island of Cariacou, a place with a unique charm and few tourists, is highly recommended.

Discover Granada

Since Calivigny is only a five-minute boat ride from Grenada, a trip to what's known as the Spice Island is a must. It's steeped in history, and its islanders are incredibly friendly. Visitors come to admire spectacular waterfalls in the heart of the rainforest, go shopping, or sample rum or its famous chocolate. The market in St. George's is worth a visit. You can take home spices, including nutmeg and nutmeg-based products. For history buffs, Fort George, perched atop a hill, is another option. Moreover, the ocean views are spectacular.

How to get there

 The gateway to Calivigny Island is Maurice Bishop International Airport, located in Grenada, which lies south of the Grenadines and Barbados archipelago and north of Venezuela and Trinidad and Tobago. From Grenada, a private yacht transfer will take you directly to Calivigny Island.