art of it is the locale, Anguilla, docile playground of the rich and famous. Part of it is the exquisitely designed website, with its large, beautiful photographs and jewel tones reflecting the interior design of the villa. But mostly, it's the villa itself, starkly modern, soaring above the tranquil beach like an architectural seagull in flight.

ommissioned by Michael and Rebecca Eggleton to actualize their dream, architect Myron Goldfinger and designer June Goldfinger have completed a marvel of color and light, of luxury surrounded by sun and stars, of silk and rattan framed by open vistas to the sea and sand beyond.

he first of what will be a small complex of opulent villas, a restaurant and spa, Altamer leaves nothing to chance. A staff of seven including two butlers and chef Maurice Leduc, who apprenticed at Maxim in Paris for five years, provide for every guest comfort.

ithin the villa itself are three floors of unparalleled luxury. Each of the five bedrooms has its own bath with Jacuzzi®. The master suite has a 20' wall of glass that looks out to Shoal Bay and over the sea to St. Martin. The villa is handicap accessible, with an interior elevator which is sized for a wheelchair. Entertainment options are many, with large-screen TV and pool table in the second-floor game room, over 300 DVD titles, and a music system that allows different areas of the villa to enjoy different types of music at the same time.

utside the villa, which sits on 5 acres with 900 feet of beachfront, there is a patio, pool, tennis court and the beach.

uxury like this does not come cheap, but the value is in the details. The wine list includes 700 types and vintages. (Not only will the butlers organize a wine tasting, they will also prepare a surprise drink of the day for every day of your stay.) Gourmet cuisine, beverages, and house wine is included in the price; meals can be served al fresco by the pool or in the elegant dining room with custom-designed flatware.

or both high and low season there is a three night minimum; for the holiday period, there is a one week minimum stay. There are also several services that are available to guests when requested in advance, including private boat transport from St. Martin, additional security, personal trainers, massage and scuba or fishing trips.

ebecca Eggleton, President of Altamer, will be happy to answer any questions you might have via email.

Altamer