Imagine the perfect setting, tucked within an equally perfect setting, surrounded by — you guessed it — the perfect setting. Could such a place really exist? The answer is: Yes.

Nestled on Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands, Sense Spa at Rosewood Little Dix Bay Resort takes the term “escape from reality” to a whole new level.

The relaxation begins as soon as you set foot on the island. Named Virgin Gorda (“Fat Virgin”) by Christopher Columbus for its resemblance to a reclining, albeit overweight, woman, the island is perhaps best known for The Baths — expansive beaches where the tide ebbs and flows through natural granite formations. Little Dix Bay is a tropical hideaway nestled in this perfect world where nothing comes between you and the bright blue sea.

Established by Laurence Rockefeller in the 1960s, the luxury resort is considered the first of its kind. In addition to top-notch accommodations and a full-service spa, the resort offers pristine beaches and a stunning swimming pool. The scene is set for utter relaxation.

It was in this tropical setting, far from the concerns of life in the office and at home, I was finally able to relax. My first few days in the British Virgin Islands had been action-packed: fishing, snorkeling and constantly on the go. Plus, I was fresh off an equally packed, five-day trip to Los Angeles. I was with a great group of people and having a lot of fun, but I was eager for some personal, quiet time at Little Dix Bay. As we climbed the stairs, surrounded by tropical flowers, and entered the lobby, I immediately felt myself let go.

My private treatment cottage overlooking the water was surrounded by brilliant flora. Earthy hues complemented its simplicity. The gorgeous stone outside shower was a highlight.

Adding to the enjoyment was getting to know my inspiring therapist, Lailani. A Canadian transplant, Lailani left behind a bustling business to find serenity in the British Virgin Islands. Her story further reinforced my belief that I was in paradise.

I indulged in a fruit scrub, my first experience with this modality. The treatment began with a fullbody scrub, using fresh pineapple and mango extracts mixed with coarse sugar to remove dead skin cells (Don’t worry — the scrub didn’t diminish my tan!) followed by an al fresco shower.

When I returned to the room, Lailani had dimmed the lights; the sounds of the ocean played in the background. I enjoyed a massage with coconut lotion to lock in the essential oils from the scrub. Honestly, when I was told the time was up, I did not want to move. The contrast between the coarse body scrub and the following massage was therapeutic, stimulating and relaxing. The treatment left my skin smoother and softer than usual — and I smelled great!

I was impressed by the personal nature of my spa experience. Treatments can be tailored to the individual, and all options are explained fully before therapy begins. For example, guests who choose a scrub select from three levels of coarseness.

To round out the experience, I lingered by the infinity pool with water spilling off the cliffs — the perfect spot to catch a little R&R before or after a treatment.

My travel companions, five in all, had savored facials and massages while I was enjoying my scrub and massage. When we regrouped for lunch, everyone looked renewed and refreshed. We were headed “back to reality,” still an escape for all of us.

By the time I left Sense, renewed in paradise, I truly understood the spa’s mission — a sense of place, a sense of balance and a sense of individuality. In the end, Little Dix Bay provided exactly the escape I needed.

Sense Spa
Rose wood Little Di x Bay
P.O. Box 70
Virgin Gorda
British Virgin Islands VG 1150
tel 284 495 5555
http://www.littledixbay.com