Necker Island Update

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Photo by: Necker Island

It’s difficult to imagine that anything could be built to outshine Sir Richard Branson’s private British Virgin Island residence turned exclusive getaway locale, but after a fire burned its main residence in the early hours of Monday, August 22 (just three days after our most recent Necker Island post) that’s just what the tycoon promises. “There's a lot of damage,” Branson reported on his blog, “but we’ll create something even more special out of the ruins.” 

The fire, thought to be the result of a lightening strike during a severe tropical storm passing over the area, eventually destroyed the Great House where actress Kate Winslet was staying with her children and boyfriend. “My son Sam and nephew Jack rushed to the house and helped get everyone out,” Branson wrote. “Many thanks to Kate Winslet for helping to carry my 90-year mum out of the main house to safety – she was wondering when a Director was going to shout CUT!”

Images and video are posted in his blog.

It’s been 30 years since Branson purchased his exclusive 74-acre refuge for a under $400,000. And while it will likely take millions to restore Necker Island to its former glory, the remodel will surely be just as extraordinary.