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As many locations begin to relax quarantine restrictions, the desire for travel with increased safety precautions is establishing itself as the new norm. In the past, hotel buyouts have been known as an option largely for work retreats, weddings, and the like; however, due to current circumstances, buyout-only properties are increasing in popularity for the luxury market. Travelers looking for completely exclusive experiences are veering in this direction more and more, especially when considering special events, celebrations, family reunions, or bucket list trips. Read along to check out some of Marchay’s favorite exclusive use accommodations.
Lake Kora
Photo courtesy of Lake Kora
Formerly a summer home of the Vanderbilt family, Lake Kora sits on 1,000 acres of private land deep in upstate New York’s Adirondack Mountains. Once a playground for American aristocrats, the lodge is now available only for exclusive use. Guests can stay in one of the property’s 12 log cabin rooms, with access to Lake Kora’s boathouse, spa, library, a variety of water sports, a century-old bowling alley and even a chapel. Days at Lake Kora are filled with boating in vintage skiffs, activities like fly fishing and biking, picnic lunches and family style dinners, complete with roasted marshmallows around the lakeside fire pit.
The Town
Photo courtesy of The Town
Never-before accessible to the public, this modern cowboy’s dream is located on 4,500 acres of private Colorado land, with its exact location remaining largely a mystery. With five streets, 54 buildings and a capacity of up to 75 guests, The Town is a fully functioning historical western community. With a variety of indoor and outdoor venues, The Town can transform your group’s special event into the event of a lifetime. When it comes to outdoor adventures, whether you stay on-property or venture off, the sky is truly the limit; each day’s itinerary is carefully curated into the ultimate day to fulfill your group’s wildest western dreams.
Bahama House
Photo courtesy of Bahama House
Hop in a five-minute water taxi from the main airport in Eleuthera over to Harbour Island where you will find Bahama House, an 1800’s restored hotel in the heart of Dunmore Town. The soft pink stone buildings are indicative of their traditional Bahamian heritage with 11 rooms spread across four cottages, perfect for those looking to relax in what feels like their friend’s casual yet elegant beach house. Taken over by the team at Eleven Experience – a luxury adventure collective – this property attracts an adventurous crowd that loves to take advantage of customized itineraries both on and off the beach.
Ultima Thule Lodge
Photo courtesy of Arturo Polo Ena
Ultima Thule Lodge is tucked inside Wrangell St. Elias National Park, North America’s largest and most remote national park, where “roughing it” is not an option. This unique family-owned and operated private lodge is one of the most secluded and luxurious places to stay in Alaska. With a maximum capacity of 14 guests, your group’s all-inclusive stay includes private cabins with hand crafted furniture and luxury creature comforts, a fleet of five airplanes, each equipped with “land anywhere” Bush Wheel tires, specialized gear — from fishing equipment to ice axes – and daily hearty Alaskan meals paired with international wines or Alaskan ales.
Musha Cay
Photo courtesy of Musha Cay
Musha Cay, David Copperfield’s tropical paradise resort, defines luxury and privacy on the otherwise uninhabited islands hidden among the Exumas in the Caribbean. The cay holds only 24 guests to stay in five charming beachfront and hilltop villas, each with their own private beach for ultimate comfort and solitude. With over 700 acres of lush, natural beauty, encompassing 11 islands and 40 beaches, Musha Cay offers something for every type of group and traveler. Activities range from outdoor movies to sea excursions to a relaxing spa day and an elegantly prepared dinner straight from the Copperfield Bay’s waters.