12-07-22

Four Seasons' first private island in the Americas could be ready in just two years. The luxury hotel group plans to open a new property off the coast of Belize in the second quarter of 2024, according to a statement shared last week. 

Called Caye Chapel, the private island community will include 24 beachfront residences and a 104-key resort with luxurious overwater bungalows.

The secluded oasis will be accessible exclusively through the island's private fleet of planes and boats. This is fitting, as the property is located within a protected marine reserve on the edge of the Belize Barrier Reef. The reef is the largest of its kind in the western hemisphere and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The resort and residences are designed to celebrate the natural beauty of Belize and all the unique experiences it has to offer. In terms of water sports, you can enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, kite boarding, jet skiing and sailing. You can also embark on day trips to snorkel the aforementioned reef or take part in curated dives with renowned ecologist Fabien Cousteau.

In addition, the resort will feature a nine-hole reversible golf course with a driving range that converts to a three-part course, as well as a full-service spa and wellness centre called Sunrise Sanctuary. The latter is complete with a yoga and meditation studio, a reflection pool, an indoor and outdoor gym, a sports court, a stargazing observatory and a nature reserve with hiking trails.

Younger guests can also join in the fun. At the Fort, a child-centred education and adventure centre, the little ones will have access to a diving school, off-island nature excursions, an interactive water park and organic gardening classes. All activities are designed to help them enjoy the great outdoors.

As if that wasn't enough, Caye Chapel will offer numerous dining options to satisfy every palate. There will be an oceanfront sushi and omakase restaurant, an all-day seafood restaurant, a farm restaurant and a bar with premium wines and spirits. Naturally, you can also expect poolside dining, cabana service and in-residence dining.

Best of all, Four Seasons seems to care for the natural environment. Only 10% of the island will host structural developments, while the rest will be devoted to preservation and conservation efforts, nature reserves and outdoor experiences. There is also a conservation centre named after Cousteau on the property that is dedicated to protecting and strengthening the reef.