The Landing

Harbour Island

To the northeast of Eleuthera, there’s a tiny stretch of land in the form of confetti lying on the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean, off the beaten tourist track of more frequently visited Bahamian destinations. Harbour Island is a small group of islands whose intact and preserved nature adds an intimate almost confidential aspect to the archipelago. The beauty of its clear blue water, and sumptuous pink sand beaches, totally unspoiled by visitors, have earned it the rank of one of the world’s ten most beautiful beaches by the British Travel TV Channel in March, 2005. This romantic and chic island is the tourist destination of a privileged number of individuals looking for an upscale vacation spot. The island’s main agglomeration is Dunmore Town, a small village with a population of 1,800 and a comprehensive pallet of bright pastel colors. The narrow streets of the town, teeming with stalls, boutiques and art galleries are a delight for strolling and window-shopping.

A hotel with colonial charm

As the shuttle boat linking Eleuthera and Harbour Island nears the port of Dunmore Town, a discreet and elegant colonial style property appears. Built in 1850 and once the home of Thomas Johnson, the island’s first doctor, the residence today is a peaceful stopover just a few minutes from Pink Sand Beach. Partially destroyed by Hurricane Floyd in 1999, the property has undergone a great deal of renovation under the direction of India Hicks, daughter of the famous London decorator, David Hicks, a member of the British royal family. The young woman, who divides her time between her London family home and her Bahamian summer property, decorated the interiors of the hotel’s twelve suites with vivid colors and a skillful blend of Caribbean and colonial influences. India Hicks drew her inspiration from the Bahamian way of life. The sober and elegant interiors are an invitation to rest and relaxation while contemplating the view of the bay. White and beige fabrics and light and airy curtains create a gentle and serene atmosphere. Recently, Toby Tyler, a confirmed former restaurateur and oenologist became a co-owner of the property and added gastronomy to the other numerous advantages of the hotel.

Crowned heads and stars of rock and jazz music as well as top models are among the numerous visitors to the island of whom some, like Lenny Kravitz, Elle MacPherson and members of the royal family, own homes here.