What is it with Richard Branson and private islands?

by | Feb 21, 2019 | Lux Stays

It’s a private, heart-shaped island in Australia

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]With a name like ‘Makepeace Island’, you can be sure that tranquillity and good vibes are the only thing you’ll be feeling on Richard Branson’s private island in Australia’s (also aptly named) Sunshine Coast. But the island’s name isn’t the only unique thing it has going for it – Makepeace Island’s gorgeous, flowy heart-shape is just another testament to its natural beauty and wonder.

Makepeace Island is located just off the cosmopolitan city of Noosa Heads, a famous surfing destination known for its plentiful waves, golden beaches, and a population of adorable koalas that you can see up close at Noosa National Park.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Sprawl out in total privacy in the island's luscious, verdant pool

Sprawl out in total privacy in the island’s luscious, verdant pool

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Makepeace Island is also home to quite the selection of wildlife: the 25-acre island calls families of kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas and even kookaburras as its full time residents. Daily nature walks are available for intrepid guests to see if they can spot as many unique Australian animals at their leisure.

Having just completed its latest refurbishment in 2018, Makepeace Island also comes with new bells and whistles, while maintaining an array of organic touches as well as sustainable aspects: vegans will be glad to know that the island is well-equipped to cater to a wide range of diets. The island also grows its own organic produce, and keeps its own chickens and beehives, honouring the classic farm-to-table concept.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Cooled by frequent winds, the Long Bar is the perfect place to enjoy a drink any time of day

Cooled by frequent winds, the Long Bar is the perfect place to enjoy a drink any time of day

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A majestic four-post bed with traditional engravings dominates the Villa's master bedroom

A majestic four-post bed with traditional engravings dominates the Villa’s master bedroom

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Boathouse is the island’s very own water activity hub, where guests can avail themselves to complimentary kayaks, paddle boards and rowboats to set out on their own sea adventure – but if you’d prefer to stay on land, a dip in the sprawling lagoon pool and intimate spa pool are also fantastic ways to spend an afternoon.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]

Read: Stay on the glamorous island Richard Branson got married on →

[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The island offers the classic Australian experience – sun, surf, indulgent outdoor barbecues – with a distinctly South-east Asian flavour. Each of the three master villas come with spectacular entry foyers, replete with fishponds, while spacious bathrooms feature stunning carved volcanic bolder baths that you’ll never want to get out of.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Walkway to Master Villa - Makepeace Island

Walkway to Master Villa – Makepeace Island

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Nearby Makepeace Island, you can also find a World Heritage Site: Fraser Island is the world’s largest sand island, and boasts lush rainforests that contrast gorgeously against rolling, endless sand dunes. Numerous scenic swimming spots, with ribbons of colourful sand, make for a dip to remember. ◼[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Subscribe to the latest edition now by clicking here.

 

© This article was first published online in Feb 2019 – World Travel Magazine.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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