Despite having been to the Caribbean several times, I sorely underestimated the beauty of Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands. It’s not the easiest island to get to, but it’s well worth your effort and absolutely stunning for your destination wedding or honeymoon respite.

I spent a few sun-filled, relaxing days at the beautiful Valley Trunk – a private villa available to rent for destination wedding parties of up to 16 people. Privately owned for over 30 years, the 18-acres of prime real estate include one of the most breathtaking beaches you’re sure to ever dig your toes into and is only rivaled in the BVIs by the nearby famous Necker Island. You and your destination wedding guests can call this piece of paradise home for as long as you want, but with a minimum of four nights and at the cost of $15,000 a night for up to six guests. Each additional guest is $1,800 per day.

This magnificent villa comes with everything you would expect: a full staff, sparkling pool, home theater, suites with breathtaking views and privacy, but what sets this villa apart is what you don’t expect. I can’t say enough about the 500 yards of near-private beach. Wade through turquoise waters by day and get lost in a massive beach bonfire by night. After enjoying a light lunch in the property’s spectacular and authentic Balinese beach house, meander down to the beach for a swim out to your own private yacht. The villa’s 70-foot yacht and its staff are included in your rental and are at your disposal. All you’re required to pay in addition are the fuel costs for the boat – a bargain for your own private yacht.

Valley Trunk has partnered with the nearby Rosewood Little Dix Bay hotel to make all of your wedding wishes come true and also serves as a solution for overflow guests. Christmas to Easter is the villa’s prime season, but be sure to book far in advance no matter what time of year. By choosing Valley Trunk for your wedding away, not only are you guaranteed the vacation of a lifetime, but you’ll sleep soundly. The family who owns the villa has opted to give 100% of the profits from the villa’s rental to wildlife conservation – a cause close to the owners’ hearts. Valley Trunk has always been a private home and is in the process of being updated, but has been meticulously maintained. It’s the details at Valley Trunk which will have you coming back – Hermès bath products, luxurious linens and breathtaking views from every room of the house.

If you’re looking to venture outside the villa, the nearby geological wonder, Baths National Park, is a must-see with massive granite boulders emerging from the sand and sea. Much like the staff, most of whom have worked at Valley Trunk for over 20 years, you’ll find it hard to leave this paradise and go back to the “real world.” That’s just what a stay here feels like – a true escape from the everyday hustle and bustle…a little piece of heaven for you and your destination wedding guests.

This article first appeared in Destination I Do’s Fall/Winter 2014 issue. You can order a copy here.