Àni Villas

Perched on the Anguillan Cliffside, Áni Villas is a sumptuous, secluded getaway for families and groups of friends wanting a full-service retreat.

• Beach BBQ dinner with freshly-caught fish, tiki torches and the soft lapping of the surf
• The very skilled, friendly staff, including a chef
• The many balconies and decks overlooking the sea and the rooftop deck for sunset cocktails

Home to such resorts as Cap Juluca, Anguilla has never been lacking for luxury, but two special villas on the north side of the island have raised the bar on blissful isolation.

Àni Villas—which are offered as either a separate four-bedroom or six-bedroom house or as a single, ten-bedroom home—is perched atop a cliff with sweeping views and a cooling breeze even in the most humid season. There are two pools, a tennis court, fitness room, game room, and two rooftop balconies to watch the setting sun while sipping on the chef’s special rum punch. Each villa comes with its own kitchen and airy living spaces with high ceilings and enormous sliding-glass doors leading to generous al fresco spaces, all designed to make the most of the ocean views. The predominantly white interiors are contemporary and sleek, with such unique touches as a gurgling pond underneath the stairs and a coffee table made from the gnarled roots of a teak tree. All rooms are outfitted with large-size Red Flower products.

The villas are located up on a cliff, about a 5-minute walk from a small beach and about 15 minutes away by car from the main beaches and restaurant area of Anguilla. Those unafraid of heights will love the drama of the glass-balconied overwater deck that leans far over the face of the cliff.

Guests who want to get close to Anguilla’s iconic clear-water beaches will appreciate Ànivilla’s private beach service: a staffer sets up a tent and chaises before you arrive, prepares snorkeling equipment and stays to ready lunch, which can include simple falafel sandwiches and grilled lobster. A host of amenities make life at Anivillas extra sweet: included in the rate is a seaport/airport pickup from St. Martin or Anguilla, a private chef who will map out the menus with guests pre-arrival, a 24/7 open bar and an SUV for the guest’s private use during their stay. The staff was accommodating whenever I had a request and completely unobtrusive when I didn’t.

From my solitary early-morning swim to evening cocktails on the rooftop terrace with a panoramic sunset view, I left Ani Villas feeling rejuvenated and already looking forward to my next trip to this special place.

Families and groups of friends who prefer a private space away from the high-season bustle. Those who need to be on beachfront property will be happier elsewhere. The villa is located up on a cliff, about a 5-minute walk from a small beach, and about 15 minutes away by car from the main beaches and restaurant area of Anguilla.