Windermere Island: A pocket guide

Windermere Island in the Bahamas is the perfect antidote to the stresses and strains of modern life. Accessed by a guarded bridge, entry onto this small but perfectly formed private gated island is only available to residents renting a vacation home, and their guests. And these rules are strict indeed! Because privacy is assured, this boutique island has long been favoured by celebrity holidaymakers who appreciate the break from paparazzi lookout, and those who purely and simply appreciate total peace and quiet, surrounded by sensational views and glistening water. Running along the length of Windermere is a stretching pale pink sand beach, that Jacques Cousteau once declared one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. On the other side of the island is tranquil Savannah Sound, a blissful spot for adults to relax in the warm and shallow turquoise waters while they watch their children play.

On this idyllic Caribbean island, slow-paced, unhurried days are spent swimming, eating, reading and resting. Windermere really is the epitome of a private retreat. If you desire a little more action, talk a walk or jog down the often deserted beaches, try your hand at fishing as there is good bonefishing on the flats of Savannah Sound, or get a kick out of kitesurfing. Worth exploring are two beaches both great for shelling, and another that is a favourite for picnics. The Club at Windermere, a members-only owned club, is accessible to residents and their guests. The casual-chic bar and restaurant are open seasonally (from mid-November to mid-May), and the swimming pool and tennis courts are available all year round.

Aside from crossing the bridge to adjoining island Eleuthera to gather your groceries (20-30 minutes drive), most residents see no reason to leave Windermere. However, if you are feeling adventurous, Eleuthera has a wealth of activities to keep you entertained. There are also more beautiful beaches to stroll and a good selection of ‘local-style’ restaurants. You can also fly to North Eleuthera airport and boat over to Harbour Island for a day trip.

Flights from Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Nassau fly into Governor’s Harbour and Rock Sound airports daily, which are both a 40-minute drive away from Windermere Island. Car rental is readily available.

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