Located on the dramatic northern tip of Moskito Island, Cape Stout Estate is new ultra-luxury retreat open to only a chosen few.
Possibly the most architecturally impressive complex in the Caribbean, one complete with canal-style pool running throughout the ground floor, Cape Stout Escape joins other all-inclusive hideaways on Moskito Island, a billionaires’ playground (Sir Richard Branson to be exact) spanning 50 hectares, surrounded by turquoise waters, and populated by ultra-luxe, “house charter,” properties. Each estate is gorgeous and unique, reflecting the personality of its owner.
READ: An Ode to the Archipelago
However, the latest entry, Cape Stout, is the finest jewel in this crown, architecturally speaking. Situated on the very tip of Moskito island, Cape Stout’s six-building estate is designed to maximise both sunset and sunrise views, and to reflect the dramatic, oceanfront landscape. More than indoor-outdoor architecture, the estate becomes one with its surroundings. The expansive main pool fans out to infinity edges on both the north and west sides, echoing the gorge in the adjacent cliff face.
A network of terraces invites visitors to stop and watch the waves crashing against the boulders, while steps made of Ipe hardwood and flagstone form a path down to secluded, sandy Honeymoon Beach. And in the HQ, the social hub of the property, a canal-like pool winds its way through the ground floor, undulating through indoor and outdoor spaces.
READ: Wildlife & Culture for Travelling Families in Sri Lanka
The interior design is just as breathtaking, and carefully considered, as the architecture. A 60-foot wall mural by Judith Belzer runs alongside the canal pool, with swirling strokes that reference dynamic form of the boulders and rock formations of the Stout peninsula. Decorative screens capture the tropical island breezes, while softening the sun’s glare to a warm glow, offering privacy and shade, reflecting the Moorish and Mediterranean styles found on the islands.
These Caribbean architectural influences are visible in the masonry walls and geometric timber pyramid roofs, which, together with the cascading exterior staircases, harmonise beautifully with the island’s rugged cliffside descending to the sea.
READ: These Are Our Favourite Tented Hideaways
Artisanal touches abound throughout the estate. Handmade porcelain tiles from Smoke and Fire grace the HQ bar bathroom, while hand-painted terracotta lines the HQ kitchen backsplash. The Clifftop suites feature a mosaic-tiled indoor shower and terra cotta tiles in the outdoor shower, while the Salt and Sand suites’ outdoor showers feature glass art designed by architects and interior designers and crafted by Peter Houk. Wood sculptures are also displayed throughout, with artwork carved in Bali on view in the Cliffside suites and the HQ bar.
The captivating natural surroundings and the beauty of custom craftsmanship are not the only inspirations for this island masterpiece. The design group—helmed by architects Charles R. Myer & Partners Ltd. with interiors by Andra Birkerts Design—were influenced by Mexican architect Luis Barragán and his dramatic use of color in architectural composition, both in interiors and exteriors. The Cape Stout design team had one theme as their guiding principle: Creating the perfect place for people to celebrate together.
READ: Bill Bensley’s Coolies Club Opens in Phuket
The estate’s eight suites accommodate a range of desired experiences, like the romantic Clifftop suite with private pool garden, created with couples in mind, and the Salt and Sand suites that accommodate children as well. The Beach Barn—with three queen and five full beds installed in a sleeper train-style are where children can enjoy the extended sleepover of their dreams, or guests attending a destination wedding or milestone birthday party can spend the night all together. There are billiards, multiple hot tubs, and a basketball court that doubles as an amphitheater for outdoor movie nights, sporting events, and friendly competitions. The estate is also equipped with a brand new, 42-foot, 1800-horsepower powerboat that comfortably holds 12 guests and three crew members, perfect for exploring BVI’s famed North Sound and beyond.
At the center of the HQ is a hand-crafted communal dining table topped by a stone inset and custom Doug Johnston light fixture above, inviting endless conversation and celebration for up to 20 guests, or as three separate tables for more intimate dining. The outdoor terrace features an original concrete dining table by Opiary that undulates like the coastline below.
READ: 10 Magical Summer Moments in Monaco
Whether your definition of quality time includes lounging in side-by-side hammocks discussing everything and nothing, night swimming in the canal pool, or dancing in the moonlight, Cape Stout is designed to make all travellers’ vacation dreams realities.
