Celebrating Four Decades of Elegance and Independence
This fall, the iconic Malliouhana resort in Anguilla is celebrating not only its 40th anniversary but also a significant return to its independent roots. After nearly a decade under the management of a major luxury hospitality group, the five-star property chose to revert to a more self-directed approach, reconnecting with its origins and heritage.
Founded by British tycoon Leon Roydon in 1984, Malliouhana has always been synonymous with exclusivity and elegance. Set on a picturesque 20-acre beachfront site overlooking the stunning Meads Bay and Turtle Cove, the resort quickly established itself as a haven for those seeking a luxurious escape from the ordinary. Originally, Malliouhana featured 44 expansive villa-like suites, each spanning over 1,000 square feet, offering guests unparalleled comfort and space.
One of Malliouhana’s first notable guests was the legendary designer Giorgio Armani, who stayed at the resort during the height of his fame. This early endorsement helped cement Malliouhana’s reputation as a stylish retreat, distinguished from the more formulaic beach resorts of the time. In an era when resorts like Club Med were popular for their uniformity, Malliouhana stood out with its unique charm and sophisticated atmosphere.
As noted in a 1989 Los Angeles Times review, Malliouhana was described as “classy, unmistakably sensual, and unquestionably expensive,” with service that sometimes veered into “imperious.” At that time, Anguilla was still relatively unknown, with undeveloped infrastructure and a lack of modern amenities. Malliouhana played a crucial role in putting Anguilla on the map, thrusting the island into the limelight and making it a must-visit destination for the world’s elite.
Over the decades, Anguilla has undergone significant transformations. The island now boasts a modern airport that accommodates larger jets and has recently introduced direct flights to Miami. Despite these advancements, Anguilla has maintained its small-town charm by not allowing cruise ships to dock, thus preserving its tranquil and exclusive appeal. Malliouhana’s longstanding sommelier, Albert Lake, who returned to the resort recently, reflects on how the initial two-week minimum stay requirement attracted a distinguished clientele. These were not just any guests but CEOs and influential figures, individuals who valued and could afford the luxury that Malliouhana offered.
Lake emphasizes that the exclusivity of the resort helped establish its reputation among the elite. “It meant that the people coming here had to have that amount of time on their hands for a vacation,” he explains. “So they were not other people’s employees; they were CEOs. They had a lot of ownership, and a lot of clout.” The demand for the 44 suites, which have since been expanded to 63, was so high that guests often had to book their stays well in advance, sometimes putting down deposits to secure their preferred accommodations.
Leon Roydon’s commitment to privacy was evident in his policies. He famously stated, “We don’t want bodyguards; it spoils the atmosphere. And we don’t give out names. We assure privacy, and we respect anonymity.” This emphasis on discretion, combined with the resort’s understated elegance, contributed to its allure. Malliouhana has always been about timeless sophistication rather than flashy trends.
Today, Malliouhana retains much of its original charm while integrating modern updates seamlessly. The resort’s aesthetic is a blend of island chic and Palm Springs cool, described as “Elizabeth Taylor meets Tom Ford.” This timeless quality was further refined during an $80 million renovation nine years ago and has been maintained through subsequent upgrades.
A standout feature of the resort is its Instagram-famous two-tiered infinity pool, which offers breathtaking views of the turquoise waters. The property also boasts world-class dining experiences centered around Celeste, a restaurant that skillfully merges Caribbean and Mediterranean culinary traditions. Guests can enjoy a range of dining options, including a beach bar, rum tastings, and a state-of-the-art spa offering a full array of pampering treatments. For those seeking physical activity, the resort provides modern facilities such as an indoor and outdoor gym, as well as courts for basketball, tennis, and pickleball.
A distinctive aspect of Malliouhana is its dedication to preserving its vintage-inspired décor. There are no visible clocks on the property, and recent additions like televisions are cleverly hidden behind mirrors to maintain the resort’s classic ambiance. This attention to detail ensures that the resort’s timeless elegance is never compromised.
Malliouhana’s culinary heritage remains a point of pride. Founder Roydon’s passion for fine wine led to the resort having the largest wine cellar in the Caribbean at one time, stocked with rare and prestigious labels. Michelin-starred chefs would fly in to prepare exclusive wine dinners for the resort’s elite guests. This tradition is being revived with the current reconstruction of the wine cellar and the introduction of a limited-edition, private-label Vermentino and rosé created in collaboration with James Beard Award–winning sommelier Shelley Lindgren and Tansy Wines.
Anguilla’s growing reputation as the culinary capital of the Caribbean can be traced back to Malliouhana’s influence. The resort’s commitment to exceptional food and wine continues to elevate its status, and its partnership with Storey Hotel Management Group promises to ensure that Malliouhana’s legacy of luxury and independence will thrive for many years to come. Storey Hotel Management Group, known for its dedication to celebrating the unique stories and histories of its properties, is the perfect partner to guide Malliouhana into its next chapter.
As Malliouhana celebrates 40 years of unparalleled luxury, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of refined elegance and independent spirit. The resort’s blend of timeless sophistication and modern amenities ensures that it remains a premier destination for those seeking an extraordinary escape.
