The private island you can book for a secluded getaway

Waking up with unobstructed views over the second biggest coral reef in the world is our idea of bliss. You might think you’d need to be on a boat to get such seclusion, but Gladden Island lets you have solid ground under your feet while you enjoy all the luxurious creature comforts you can imagine.

The two-bed villa you’ll be staying in is the only one on the small island, with the staff staying on a smaller island just behind – ready to provide anything you might need, from snorkelling trips around the Belize Barrier Reef or a meal prepared by the Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef.

With white sand, turquoise sea and luscious forest, thisslice of paradise is just waiting to be enjoyed.

Sunset from the front of the villa

The view from the roof terrace of the villa

The kitchen that opens out on to the island

The dining area outside the front of the villa

The master suite

Nothing but blue ocean around Gladden Island

A stay at Gladden Island starts at $2,950 a night for a two-person stay with a minimum of four nights.

If you prefer something a little colder here is our guide to finding the best snow for skiing this season…