In order to really, fully, truly disconnect from the world around us, we need to journey away from our urban surroundings — deep into the trees, or possibly across the water — and leave our daily toils firmly, unequivocally behind. We need to go ‘off-the-grid’. Luckily, these remote, tranquil boltholes have the right idea…
Little Pipe Cay, Exumas, Bahamas
An 11-bedroom private island steeped in luxury, comfort and considered personal touches, it comprises houses and cottages scattered over the island that are privy to some of the most beautiful views in the world; and with a sea barn housing myriad water sports equipment, you may be off grid — but you won’t be bored for a moment.
Quad III Ranch at Watson Divide, Colorado
If you’re after disconnection, you’ll be sure to find it in this bucolic, 69 acre property. The ranch-style home clocks in at 5,553 square feet, and comprises five bedrooms and a traditional mountain style, thanks to its Ralph Lauren furnishings. It’s also significantly self-sustaining, with a 5,000 watt hydro-electric system and solar thermal-assisted heating.
Broad Park, Devon
If you’re looking for off-the-grid, the 15 acres of extensive grounds will ensure a feeling of total detachment from the outside world. You don’t often look to Devon for contemporary architectural masterpieces, but that’s what you’ve got here: take the glazed atrium, for example, or the glass bridge that extends across the upper floor, to be reached by a floating staircase.
West Wind Estate and Winery, California
Have you ever been to West Marin’s Black Mountain, and thought how picturesquely remote it was? Well, now’s the time to make it your second (or first) home. Overlooking the Nicasio reservoir, this estate sits in 32 acres and offers a sublimely off-grid living experience, from solar array to well and spring water, generators and electric car chargers.
1 Columbia Island, New York
A self-sustaining private island home, this property allows for rooftop views of New York City whilst being utterly removed from the rest of the world thanks to its ocean setting. With four bedrooms and evocative panoramic sea views, we can’t imagine why you’d ever want to hop on the boat to leave.
810 Piiholo Road, Hawaii
Sharp, clean lines; sleek contemporary architecture; sweeping ocean views; crafted from sustainable materials; we’re listening, and you should, too. This four bedroom off-the-grid property merges lush vegetation with vast, spacious rooms that’ll banish your corporate cares into the distance.
Chalet Pearl, Megève
It looks a little like the setting of an Alpine-themed murder mystery novel, doesn’t it? But therein lies the beauty of this chalet’s remote detachment from the wider world and the panoramic mountain scenery. It’s built over three levels, and its amenities include an air-conditioned wine cellar, a hammam, a jacuzzi: you name it, this off-the-grid property has it.
24000 Fig Tree Ln, California
Nestled at the gateway to the Anderson Valley, this property sits in more than 160 acres. The main house is crafted from rammed earth and glass, with floor-to-ceiling glass walls aplenty; in short, it’s an architectural marvel with sustainable power, a solar heated salt swimming pool: and much more.
The River Ranch, New Mexico
Perched on the edge of the Rio Chama, this evocative property comprises 1,000 acres (in two separately deeded 500 acre tracts). Forged from steel and concrete, it’s surrounded by nature on all sides, and includes several casitas in addition to the main house.
Crown Pigeon Island & Cays, North Eleuthera, Bahamas
This private island clocks in with 11 acres of breathtaking natural foliage, together with ample coastal vegetation; and with three beaches and a beach club bar — and a total of 15 sleeping rooms spread across various accommodation offerings — it’s a luxurious, opulent off-the-grid marvel.
Looking for more exotic hideaways? These are the 10 best private islands in the world…
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