There are private spaces far removed from the crowds and the everyday world. Set against the grand tapestry of nature, these spaces engender admiration and enhance relaxation. Here at the Maldives Four Seasons Resort at Landaa Giraavaru, hammocks for two swing under the shade of a cabana perched over the waters of the Baa Atoll.

Photo: Four Seasons
Blancaneaux Lodge, Belize

Mountains, streams and waterfalls are the theme at this eco-lux oasis. The resort is tucked away in the heart of Belize’s remote and pristine Mountain Pine Ridge Forest. Guests can hike and explore the forest, dine by candlelight with the flowing river nearby, swim under cascading falls and explore sacred caves. When twilight comes, relaxation is found in the sounds of bird songs and the rushing waters of a jungle stream. Photo: Blancaneaux Lodge
Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort, St. Lucia

Settle onto a shaded private terrace at St. Lucia’s Sugar Beach resort, and take in the sea breezes flowing up from the Caribbean. Your personal plunge pool awaits, and far below, waves lap against the shores of Piton’s Bay. When it’s time for refreshment, a private butler is on call to bring libations and indulgences. Why would you ever want to leave? Photo: Sugar Beach
Bora Bora InterContinental

The setting is the stuff of dreams, and the shimmer of lagoon waters that surround the Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort are the very definition of the word inviting. Immersing in this liquid nirvana is as easy as stepping from the deck of an over-water bungalow. A different form of hydrotherapy awaits at the nearby Thalasso Spa, where mineral-rich waters drawn from ocean depths are used to relax and rejuvenate. Photo: InterContinental
Amanyara Resort, Turks & Caicos

Is it still called a day bed after the sun goes down? By whatever name, this tranquil poolside enclave of relaxation is the place to be when the stars come out. Amanyara Resort sits on a promontory on the western shore of Providenciales island, backed by a vast wilderness of protected parkland, and overlooking the pristine reefs of a marine park. Photo: Aman Resorts
Resort at Pedregal, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Kick back and watch the sun sink into the Pacific Ocean with the fire pit going and a good glass of red wine at your side. When relaxing at the Resort at Pedregal, it’s hard to believe that the bustle of Cabo San Lucas is just minutes away. But there’s literally a mountain between you and the outside world, with a private tunnel guarding your serenity. Photo: Resort at Pedregal
DoublePool Villas by Banyan Tree, Phuket, Thailand

Find your Zen as twilight settles over the lagoon. Here, you’ll dine under the stars at the waters edge and gaze out on the lake with lighted lanterns floating by. Or board a traditional long tail boat for a dinner cruise through the lagoons as traditional Thai music casts the scene and the pink clouds of sunset reflect on the water. Bodies of water surround: there are lakes, pools, ponds and ocean nearby. Sleep in a glass bedroom where you seem to float on water, surrounded by your private wading pool. Photo: Banyan Tree
Scrub Island, BVI

The view from your pool takes in the occasional boat passing through the channel to Great Camanoe Island. That’s about the only signs of the outside world you will see on this private island. It’s your space, your entourage and your choice; hold up in your private villa, cocktails on your balcony, and dinner on your patio. Your self-catering home has everything you need. Should you want to visit the outside world, the marina and beaches are not far off. Photo: Scrub Island
Nayara Springs, Costa Rica

Lush tropical foliage screens the outdoor sitting area of a spring villa at Costa Rica’s Nayara Springs. Nestled in Arenal rainforest with the volcano within view, all of the visions of Costa Rica come to life. This is the perfect place to relax after a day of hiking the nearby rainforests, or being indulged in the resort’s award- winning spa. Have your on-call concierge deliver dinner to the room, then slip into the private plunge pool, which is fed by natural mineral hot springs. Photo: Nayara Springs
Little Torch Key, Little Palm Island, Florida Keys

Take a trip to a tropical paradise without leaving the States. In the heart of the Florida Keys, Little Torch Island once doubled as a movie set for a South Pacific island. Today, this secluded enclave is home to a low-key luxury resort where Polynesian-style bungalows nestle into fragrant gardens, and guests can retreat to intimate beachside settings to watch the sun set across turquoise waters. Photo: Little Palm Island
Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru, Maldives

Your table is ready. It’s easy to see how Blu Beach got its name, as the dazzling white sands further enhance the cobalt hues of the lagoon waters. Here in the Baa Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives, the Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru Resort is home to the Blu Bar, which serves up stunning views of its namesake beach. Photo: Four Seasons

Great Escapes and Serene Spaces
Published on: 5/09/17 By Debbie Snow

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