Escape to Paradise: The Ultimate Luxury Getaway in Mustique

Picture sparkling turquoise waters, lush green hills, and incredible villas nestled discreetly into the hillside, each featuring expansive infinity pools. As Mustique comes into view from your hopper flight—whether you’re arriving from Barbados or St. Lucia—you can already sense you’re about to experience something truly special.

Landing at the island’s one-room airport, mostly open to the elements, offers one of the most dramatic arrivals I’ve ever had. The plane swoops over the hill at an angle that feels a bit like imminent danger, only to ease gently onto the tarmac for a smooth stop. It’s a moment made even more unforgettable by the sight of locals, often standing on the airport roof, waving to loved ones—a charming tradition of Mustique.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by Jenson, the exceptional butler at the villa we were staying in—Blackstone. With a warm smile, he loaded our bags into a golf buggy and whisked us up the hill to the house. Each villa on Mustique is uniquely designed, but all share one thing in common: absolute breathtaking beauty.

Blackstone: The Villa

At Blackstone, we were immediately struck by the elegance and serenity of the space. Upon entering through the front door, you’re welcomed by the tranquil sight of a koi pond and a small glimpse of the ocean. As you move through the living area, the view opens up—an infinity pool stretches out before you, a pagoda just beyond it, all overlooking the vast ocean horizon.

The living room is expansive, filled with plush, comfortable seating designed for relaxation. I spent hours lounging on one of the sofas, a book in hand, occasionally looking up to enjoy the magnificent view. The dining area, equally impressive, features a large round table seating 10–12, where we shared most of our meals. Jackie, the chef, must be one of the island’s finest—each meal was a perfect blend of flavors and artfully prepared.

The rooms at Blackstone are the epitome of understated luxury. Spacious with king-sized, incredibly comfortable beds, massive wardrobes, and bathrooms fit for royalty, most rooms have stunning views of either the garden or the ocean. The villa staff are attentive yet unobtrusive, ensuring everything is ready for you the moment you step out for breakfast—your room is tidied, the bed made, and the space opened up for the day ahead.

Mustique: What to do

Mustique offers a vacation experience suitable for most. Whether you’re after being active and keeping fit, a totally laid-back escape, partying the night away, or a balance of all three, this island delivers. We visited during New Year’s and, as expected, the island was full of social occasions. New Year’s Eve on Mustique is legendary—from the extravagant fancy dress to celebrity sightings and the wild party that stretches into the early hours. Most people aim to end the night with a sunrise swim at Macaroni Beach to ring in the new year – unfortunately the days of pulling all nighters are beyond me but those who made it said it was as special as ever.

One of the greatest charms of Mustique is its laid-back, informal vibe. While you may occasionally spot celebrities, the island’s policy of no photos or press means everyone feels relaxed and at ease. This makes it feel almost normal to find yourself working out in the gym alongside Daniel Craig or dancing near Gigi Hadid at the New Year’s party.

For those who want more than just sunshine and reading, Mustique offers a variety of activities to enjoy:

Swim in the Ocean
The water around Mustique is pure bliss. Whether you’re casually snorkeling or swimming more seriously, the colorful fish, coral, and sea creatures like turtles and eagle rays make for an unforgettable experience. A great swim is the route from Basil’s Bar to CottonHouse Bay, roughly a kilometer each way. Alternatively, head to Lagoon Beach or the serene Jeliceau Bay. I would advise avoiding the East Coast, as the waters can be rough and there are stronger currents—stick to the West and Southern coasts for calmer seas.

Hike or Run the Trails
Despite its small size, Mustique has an excellent network of trails, perfect for either a morning hike or an afternoon run. The views are incredible, and the trails are well-maintained, making it ideal for families or solo explorers. The early morning or evening is the best time to go, avoiding the midday heat.

Visit CottonHouse Gym
The CottonHouse Gym is a lovely space with a great range of equipment and friendly staff. If you’re looking for a personal training session or want to join a yoga class, this is the place to be.

Sundowners at Basil’s Bar
No trip to Mustique would be complete without a visit to the iconic Basil’s Bar. Situated right on the ocean, Basil’s offers the perfect blend of music, cocktails, delicious food (for when you want to give your villa staff a night off), and a lively atmosphere. Wednesday nights feature the “Jump Up”, where the energy can get a bit wild, but it’s always a blast!

Whether you’re lounging in the sun, enjoying the luxury of your villa, or exploring the island’s natural beauty, Mustique offers a holiday experience unlike any other—one that feels effortlessly chic, serene, and impossibly special.