John Donne may have got it right on the island philosophy. But with tech’s incessant clang and clatter, being an island entire of oneself is an increasingly appealing proposition. Screens lose their appeal with empty beaches to roam, glassy lagoons to wallow in and breakfasts to draw out with friends under the dappled morning light. If fully switching off now requires more extreme measures, renting a full island or island villa with a private beach is the way to go. No relentless dinner planning in town, no bucket lists from friends to tick off, just that thrilling realisation that you’re cast adrift and relaxed enough to clock the sloshing evening water on the rocks, the lizard that darts between the shade of stones, or the rustle of olive trees as a warm breeze lifts. We’ve scoured the most beguiling of isles and islets for villas and hideaways where R&R is obligatory.
