Gatsby's private paradise in Devon

Burgh Island is an Art Deco gem and probably the only place in the UK where black tie dining is not only expected but actively encouraged. Jay Gatsby would feel immediately at home were he to stroll into the white, modernist building and catch 360 degree views of the surrounding beach and sea.

A cocktail at the Bar, under the magnificent stained glass 1930s dome, is a must on arrival before a dip in the sea water bathing pool (original bathing suits line the walls of reception). Burgh Island boasts all the craggy rocks and silver sands you need to moodily mooch on - even the light of the Eddystone lighthouse is visible for that authentic Gatsby moment.

But moodiness is not to be encouraged; Burgh Island is a party place and made for brief encounters, lasting friendships, celebrations and long memories.  The private island is home just to the balcony lined Hotel, built between 1928 and 1932 and a tiny and quaint "smugglers'" pub, The Pilchard Inn dating from the 14th century.   Burgh Island is quite simply one of the most romantic and surprising places you can visit and is a genuine step back in time.  Last year, readers of The Good Hotel Guide voted it "the most romantic hotel in Britain" and it's easy to see why. 

Linked to the mainland by a tidal beach, in summer the sands are clean and golden warm, in winter they become silvery and misty under the low sun.  Add gentlemen in black tie and ladies in full evening gowns or sparkling cocktail dresses, live music on Saturdays and Wednesdays, moonlight and dancing and you have the perfect mix.

If you're hooked on the Gatsby theme and have, maybe, invested in some of the fabulous modern take on '30s fashions around at the moment, join us at Burgh Island and live the fiction for a while. 

For more information, visit burghisland.com.