Ariara Island

A 125-acre private island retreat in the Philippines, designed and staffed like a lavishly appointed and impeccably managed private home, accommodating up to 18 guests on an exclusive basis.

The result of a dream by British couple, Charles and Carrie McCulloch, Ariara was conceived over a six-year labour of love. Aimed at travellers like themselves – people who like to escape their busy lives on exotic adventures with friends and family but don’t “do” hotels – the McCullochs have created the ultimate retreat for those in search of a private island paradise to have all to themselves.

The McCullochs appointed renowned Filipino architect Jorge Yulo and multi-talented Belgian project manager, Peter Ponnet, to help them create Ariara. Together they went to great lengths to design the property with the least impact on its pristine environment.

Ariara’s eight spacious villas, cottages and suites are all dotted along the 600m main beach with uninterrupted views out to the sea and neighbouring islands. Each party of guests has exclusive use of the island, aided by a team of over 35 friendly, discrete and intuitive staff including a European manager, a PADI Dive Instructor and a private chef. Guests have exclusive use of all water sports equipment including their fully-staffed 100ft four-cabin yacht for island-hopping expeditions, plus the Lodge cinema, massage and manicures with Ariara’s resident therapist and personal training and yoga sessions with the in-house instructor. Dining can be as sophisticated or as ‘barefoot’ relaxed as guests like, with locations entirely flexible and planned daily to suit guests’ preferences.

www.ariaraisland.com