USP Perched on the top of a cliff, the spa is open on three sides to spectacular Caribbean vistas. For serious outdoors types there’s a new treatment area carved out of the hillside, with just a wooden roof for shelter from tropical rain and a giant shower-head fixed to a tree trunk.

AMBIENCE Secluded tropical island paradise. Only one guest at a time uses the spa, and as therapists also join guests for meals and evening partying, the service feels very personal.

EXPERIENCE Aloe and mint grow outside the door of Bali Leha and are freshly picked for one of the spa’s signature treatments, a moisturising wrap combined with a face and scalp massage. I opted for a marine-salt scrub, which left my skin deeply cleansed and soft, and a La Stone massage - flat volcanic pebbles are heated in water then held in the palm of the therapist’s hand. Any knotted muscles are treated to the stone held on its side, providing a second of searing hot pain that also gives deep relief.

FOOD The chef’s party trick is to float his sushi special into a pool. Fussy eaters can pose a challenge as all the food - bar passion fruit, bananas and papaya grown on the island - is imported. Serious weight-watchers can have tailor-made cuisine.

IN CROWD A retreat for the likes of the owner Richard Branson and his pals. At up to £22,000 a day to hire the island this is serious super-rich territory.

WALLET WATCH Necker Island is usually available for exclusive hire only. But during Celebration and Revitalisation Weeks it offers rooms for individuals and couples from about £6,000 per person per week, including accommodation, all food, drinks, sports facilities and local transfer to the island, but not flights. A manicure costs £21; a one-hour La Stone massage £110.

NEED TO KNOW Necker Island, the British Virgin Islands (0208 600 0430; www.virgin.com/limitededition)

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