Often we come across extraordinary places that take our breath away. Even more exhilarating is when we learn of the stories from the people responsible for their creation.
From an untouched island chain in Panama and utter escapism in the South Pacific, to the ultimate wilderness retreats in Kenya and Scotland — here we shine the spotlight on the extraordinary people and their visions that brought these places to life…
The wilderness retreat: Alladale, Scottish Highlands
Sitting on 23,000 acres of natural grounds, Alladale Wilderness Reserve is a wild gem hidden deep in the Scottish Highlands. Set amongst rugged terrain, dramatic glens, glistening rivers and herds of majestic red deer; it is truly a nature lover’s dream.
As the estate’s philanthropic custodian, Paul Lister dreams of ‘rewilding’ to restore the balance of nature to this breathtaking part of the British Isles. Spearheading this movement and working towards redefining traditional Scottish tourism, Alladale introduced a ban on commercial deer stalking on the estate last year. Instead, guests are encouraged to connect with nature through an array of activities including guided hikes, mountain biking, fly fishing, foraging, clay pigeon shooting and wild swimming just to name a few.
As a guest, learn to respect and praise the healing powers of nature and let the vision-focused team at Alladale take you to experience the last truly wild part of Scotland.
The tropical hideaway: Islas Secas, Panama
True escapism comes in the form of Islas Secas, an archipelago of 14 unspoiled islands hidden in the Gulf of Chiriqui just off the Pacific Coast of Panama.
Here, four secluded eco-inspired casitas welcome no more than 18 guests at a time – creating a true sanctuary surrounded by jungle and combined with genuinely sustainable hospitality. Skip across to Islas Cocos and seek out the Frigate birds or embark on a marine safari in this pristine ocean wilderness that plays host to one of the most diverse marine ecosystems in the world.
Unwind under clear Panama skies and connect with the timeless natural beauty of your surroundings. Be it on land or in the ocean, thanks to investor and conservationist – Louis Bacon – Islas Secas is a chance to discover Panama's "Lost Coast".
The one with it all: Segera, Kenya
Set in the heart of Laikipia, nestled between glorious Mount Kenya to the east and the Great Rift Valley to the west, Segera amazes with its effortless blend of stylish design, sustainable safari experience and complete immersion in its magical surrounds.
The 50,000-acre private reserve of sun-dappled savannah plains, rocky waterfalls and lush botanical gardens is a treasured haven for Kenya’s most celebrated wildlife species. With just eight eco-friendly luxury villas and expert safari guides that are next to none, days here are spent tracing the footsteps of the Big Five, exploring majestic mountain ranges by helicopter and enjoying sundowners under the star-studded sky.
Pioneering philanthropist, Jochen Zeitz, was inspired by the creativity of the African continent from his days as CEO of Puma. Since 2005 he and his family have been restoring the land and engaging with the community to preserve the area’s cultural and conservation legacies. Endangered species have once again found refuge on Segera so you are invited to do as much or as little as you like, but most importantly let yourself succumb to the natural rhythms of the wide open plains stretching out to the horizon.
The ultimate private island: Nukutepipi
Nukutepipi is a stunningly beautiful private island and a natural sanctuary sitting unspoilt in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Thanks to Guy Laliberté – the man behind Cirque du Soleil – his French Polynesian nirvana now welcomes discerning guests to make “Nuku" their exclusive escape from reality.
For Guy and his team, to cherish and preserve the ecosystem of this atoll is the true essence of Nukutepipi, as is the desire to pay tribute to Polynesian cultural traditions to which the island belongs. This secluded paradise is home to a unique collection of rare tropical flora & fauna, a primary forest, untouched beaches, a protected lagoon and vibrant coral reef. The team on Nukutepipi are fully dedicated to maintaining and sustaining a balance between the needs of the island’s natural habitat and those of its guests.
Escape to this far-flung private island retreat and let yourself be surrounded by a myriad of protected species, coconut palms and pristine beaches of emerald and crystalline turquoise waters. It is a haven of rest and a lesson of humility, where your senses will be challenged and inspired.