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Home | Elegant Traveller | The Beginnings of Your Favourite Beach Resorts

Elegant Traveller

The Beginnings of Your Favourite Beach Resorts

schedule6 Minute Read

06-Nov-2024 Lou Fox

The Beginnings of Your Favourite Beach Resorts

Have you ever wondered where your favourite escapes began?

From secluded islands in the Maldives to sun-kissed shores in the Caribbean, beach resorts have long captivated travellers with their allure and charm. But have you ever wondered about the stories behind your favourite stays?

Delve into the origins of some of the world's most iconic beach resorts, discovering the passion, vision and dedication that brought them to life.

The Maldives' First Luxury Hotel

Soneva Fushi, the first-ever Soneva resort and often hailed as the Maldives' pioneer of luxury hospitality, traces its roots to a love story. In the early 1990s, Sonu Shivdasani and his wife Eva, united by their shared passion for the Maldives, leased a private island and began working. Their dream materialised in 1995 with the opening of Soneva Fushi.
Sandbank Overnight Experience

Sugar Plantation to Secluded Paradise

Since its humble beginnings in 1960 as a sugar plantation, Blue Waters Resort and Spa has transformed from a modest 16-room beach hotel into a luxurious Caribbean oasis. Founded by Royal Air Force Flying Officer Osmond Kelsick in Soldiers Bay, the resort has grown significantly over the decades, preserving its family-owned charm while offering world-class amenities.
Nestled amidst 17 acres of tropical gardens and boasting three secluded white sand beaches, the hotel's enduring legacy is a testament to its ability to seamlessly blend tradition with innovation, ensuring its timeless appeal in the Caribbean. And as reminder of its past, the old mill still stands in the grounds, carefully preserving local history.
Aerial view of Blue Waters Resort and Spa
Aerial view of Blue Waters Resort and Spa

The Legacy of Charles Telfair

Named after the renowned 19th-century Irish naturalist Charles Telfair, Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Wellness Resort exudes a captivating blend of history, luxury and elegance. Once a sprawling sugar plantation, the resort's architecture now echoes the colonial era, and its grounds showcase lush gardens (a fitting tribute to the botanist namesake), pristine beaches and a serene lagoon. Now also a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, this transformation from plantation to paradise is evident in the resort's atmosphere.
Aerial View

Intent on an Island Revival

Félicité Island, once the remains of coconut plantation, has been transformed into a pristine paradise at Six Senses Zil Pasyon. This eco-conscious Seychelles resort, occupying less than a third of the island, stemmed from a passion project of restoration. Through sustainable practices and a deep respect for the natural environment, the resort has revitalised the island's ecosystems, creating a haven for both nature and guests alike.
Felicite Beach

New Life for the Island Railway

Cobblers Cove, one of Barbados' most beloved properties, traces its origins back to the 1940s when the Great House was built using steel from the old island railway. Once a private holiday home, it was developed into a boutique hotel in the late sixties by the Godsal family, and today this family-owned hotel and its beautiful gardens continue to captivate discerning travellers with its Bajan flair.
Aerial View

Built on a VIP Philosophy

Nana Princess is a Cretan family-run gem that was built on the foundations of exclusivity and luxury. Named after the owner's mother and daughter, this adult-oriented resort welcomes every guest like family and treats them like royalty. With its area also having a rich Minoan heritage, this stay blends contemporary comfort and ancient allure.
Sunset over Nana Princess
Sunset over Nana Princess

Royal Foundations

The Marbella Club, originally built as a private residence by Prince Alfonso of Hohenlohe-Langenburg, has stood as a symbol of luxury and exclusivity since its inception in 1954. During the golden era of the 1960s and 1970s, it was the ultimate destination for the jet set. Today, The Marbella Club remains a renowned resort, seamlessly blending tradition with modern amenities and offering a truly unforgettable experience.
Beach Club

From a Family Legacy

Spice Island Beach Resort, owned and operated by the Hopkin family since the mid 1980s, is a true reflection of Caribbean hospitality. With a rich history that dates back to 1961 and a commitment to family-like service, the resort has evolved into a stunning destination with its recent renovations. The Hopkin family's passion for creating memorable experiences shines through in every aspect of this boutique beachfront property, making it a beloved Grenadan retreat for all generations.
Pool and beach

Born From a Desire for Meaningful Change

JOALI Maldives, a sanctuary of creativity, sustainability and indulgence, was born from a dream of a uniquely artistic resort nestled in the Raa Atoll. Founded by Esin Gural Argat, an enthusiastic advocate for sustainability and female empowerment, JOALI Maldives is more than just a luxury resort - it's a destination where art, nature, and wellness converge to create an unforgettable experience.
Esin's dedication to art in every sense, from interior design to gastronomy is evident in every aspect of the resort. The island is adorned with an impressive collection of artworks, immersing guests in a world of inspiration and wonder.
JOALI's unwavering commitment to sustainability ensures that the island's natural beauty, which inspired its creation, remains undisturbed. Through initiatives aimed at protecting the environment and empowering local communities, the resort is making a positive impact on both the planet and the local people.
From the moment you arrive, you'll be captivated by the island's infectious joie de vivre, a testament to the love and care that went into its creation. Whether you choose to immerse yourself in underwater adventures or indulge in culinary delights inspired by local flavours, JOALI Maldives offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you inspired, rejuvenated and deeply connected to the island's spirit.
Island Aerial View
Ocean Fun
Are you looking for more travel inspiration? Filled with first-hand travel tales, expert destination guides and more, our luxury online travel blog can help.
Lou   Fox

Lou Fox

Content Executive

Ready with a guidebook and my camera, I've been lucky enough to travel all over the world. From learning to dive in Egypt to traversing the theatres and museums in NYC, I'm passionate about exploring the planet and writing about what the world has to offer.