Take three: private island holidays

Here's something to keep you dreaming through the dreary winter weather: a holiday on your private island in the Caribbean. The new owners of Petit St Vincent, the small, privately owned island located in the island nation of Petit St Vincent and the Grenadines, have announced a programme of upgrades in response to their customers' suggestions.

Improvements to the luxury hideaway resort, which will be completed by November, include a new casual beach restaurant, open-air spa and fitness and yoga centre, and a library with TV, DVD and internet. Guests will also benefit from an activities desk, where they can organise a range of sports and diversions – from hiking and water sports to art classes and wine tasting.

And owners Robin Paterson and Phil Stephenson have listened to the feedback of their own families, too. Kids will have their own special, adult-free space – a children's treehouse, where they can enjoy a range of activities while mum and dad relax.

At the heart of the developments will be the continuing preservation of the island's wild, natural beauty with further sensitive landscaping, and the high level of discreet, friendly service.

If you'd rather have your private island closer to home, check out the four properties on Lake Mälaren, in Sweden. The island is two minutes by motorboat (which is provided) from the mainland town of Mariefred, where you'll find shops, bars, restaurants, museums and galleries.

Or there's the lovely house on Torsa island, on the south-west coast of Scotland, which comes with its own speed boat (and tuition).

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Have you a private island to recommend? Give us your suggestions!