On Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands, Rosewood’s Little Dix Bay packs a big punch when it comes to luxury.
There’s something magical about Rosewood Little Dix Bay on Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands. Perhaps it’s the way the resort’s villas, rooms, and suites tuck into a lush, hilly landscape overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Or the noticeable lack of TVs and other outside distractions. Or the way the moon hangs over the tree-lined crescent beach at night, giving the place an almost “lost”-like quality. Half the fun of staying here is figuring out what’s so special about it.
Little Dix debuted in 1964 after its founding by financier and philanthropist Laurance S. Rockefeller. Today, the resort continues to welcome guests—a large percentage are repeat visitors—who appreciate its laid-back luxury and subtle sophistication. Plus, a $25 million update by current owner Rosewood means that the resort now has more to offer than ever before.
Little Dix’s waterfront location lends itself to aquatic activities, like scuba diving, water skiing, sailing, wind surfing, fishing, and snorkeling. More earthly options include tennis, hiking along Cow Head Trail, private picnics on nearby beaches, and sunning on Little Dix’s own three-quarter-mile stretch of sand. Yoga, Pilates, and exercise facilities are also available, and Little Dix recently debuted new fitness retreats, allowing guests to learn and practice wellness philosophies and fitness techniques—from low-impact stretching sessions to high-intensity Kettlebell workouts—taught by experts.
 |
Arguably, the most popular spot at Little Dix is Sense, A Rosewood Spa, thanks to its dramatic clifftop setting and Caribbean-style services. Many treatments use botanical resources that are grown or produced locally. Sense is so serene and stunning that a chaise by its infinity-edge pool overlooking Sir Francis Drake Channel is prime seating, even on days when guests’ itineraries are devoid of spa services.
Also distinguishing Little Dix from its competition is that food here is actually good. Romantic beach dinners and picnics are a must, but even standard fare here is anything but. Three restaurants—the Pavilion, the Beach Grill, and the Sugar Mill—offer vast buffets, casual lunch options, and fine entrées, respectively. In 2012, to coincide with neighboring Anegada’s annual Lobster Festival, Little Dix launched a lobster meal plan, allowing seafood-obsessed guests to enjoy different iterations of the crustacean at every meal. The program promises to return in 2013, just one special touch among many at this precious island gem. rosewoodhotels.com/en/littledixbay/