Once home to the Harvey family (of Harveys Bristol Cream fame), the historic Fourways Inn has been beautifully restored since it was first built from coral stone and cedar in 1727. The original kitchen is now the Peg Leg Bar & Lounge, and the restaurant is one of the tastiest on Bermuda. Rates from $208, including breakfast. www.fourwaysinn.com

So called because of its location on the highest point of Green Turtle Cay, Bluff House Beach Hotel & Yacht Club overlooks Bahamian blue waters. Use a golf cart to explore the town of New Plymouth and the rest of this tiny island (population: around 500) in the Abacos chain. Rates from $150. www.bluffhouse.com

The only resort on quiet Stocking Island is the ecological gem of Higgins Landing. It took the owners nearly four years to build this solar-powered retreat that lies just across the harbor from Great Exuma. Best of all, on one side of the resort is a lagoon, and on the other, the sea. Rates from $350, including dinner. www.higginslanding.com

The best assets of the Turks & Caicos are their renowned beaches, and one of the prettiest of the lot is Mudjin Harbor which, it so happens, is at the foot of Blue Horizon Resort on Middle Caicos. Pre-arrival, fax a grocery list to the owners and your self-catering cottage will be stocked for you. Rates from $185 with a three-night minimum. www.bhresort.com