Celebrity-Owned Resorts

Richard Branson's Necker Island, British Virgin Islands

Celebrities. They've stayed in the world's best resorts and hotels, dined on the finest foods. So when the stars decide to invest in the travel and tourism industry, what's the result?

Judge for yourself. Below you'll find links to celebrity-owned resorts, hotels, and restaurants around the world.

US & CANADA

Mission Ranch Resort, Carmel, California. Clint Eastwood owns this seaside resort, known for its country atmosphere and restaurant with live music. There's a honeymoon cottage on the sprawling ranch as well. Tel. 831.624.6436.

Cypress Inn, Carmel, California. Actress (and today a very active animal activist) Doris Day owns this inn which, not surprisingly, is pet friendly! Many rooms have lovely ocean views and some even include romantic fireplaces.

Loretta Lynn's Ranch and Family Campground, Hurricane Mills, Tennessee. The Coal Miner's Daughter herself now owns this expansive 65-acre ranch and campground. There's a replica of her Butcher Hollow family home as well as a simulated coal mine. Unlike some celebrity-owned properties, Hurricane Millsis home to Loretta Lynn so don't be surprised to see her popping by.

Sundance Resort, Sundance, Utah. Famous for the Sundance Film Festival as well as its owner, Robert Redford, this hip resort has hosted many famous names. Hit the slopes during the winter months or enjoy year-around fun with mountain biking, hiking, or just romantic walks in the serene woods.

Trapp Family Lodge, Stowe, Vermont. They call it "a little of Austria...a lot of Vermont." This mountain resort is owned by the von Trapp family of The Sound of Music fame. Opt for a stay in the lodge or villas; the resort also offers weddings on its 2700 acres.

Terrace Beach Resort and Cabins, British Columbia, Canada. Where do celebrities go to get away from it all? Often to resorts they own themselves. Actor Jason Priestly of Beverly Hills 90210 fame owns a romantic resort called Terrace Beach Resort and Cabins along with his father, Lorne, his stepmother, Norma, and his stepsister, Karin. [more]

CARIBBEAN & BERMUDA

Ariel Sands, Bermuda. The family of Michael Douglas started this seaside hotel; today, after an extensive renovation, the 48-room resort is chic enough to make every guest feel like a star. Keep an eye out for celebs around the pool; if you don't have any luck, you can always do a little star sighting with a look at Douglas's movie memorabilia in the bar.

Necker Island, British Virgin Islands. This exclusive island in the British Virgin islands is owned by Sir Richard Branson of Virgin Records fame. Celebrity Guests have ranged from Oprah to Princess Diana--and a look around this very exclusive private island and it's easy to see why.

CENTRAL AMERICA

Turtle Bay, Belize. Balinese-inspired accommodations draw romantics to this beachside resort owned by Francis Ford Coppola.

Blancaneaux Lodge, Belize. Stay in the Francis Ford Coppola Villa or opt for one of honeymoon cabanas at this lodge (one that comes complete with a spa, horse stables, and organic garden.)

La Lancha Resort, Guatemala. Both lakeview and rainforest casitas are offered at this small resort owned by Francis Ford Coppola.

EUROPE

The Clarence, Dublin, Ireland. U2's Bono and The Edge own this historic Dublin hotel, known for its informal elegance, all in the heart of the city.

Epsteins Hotel, Liverpool, England. OK, it's no longer owned by a celeb, but Beatles buffs will enjoy this property anyway. This was the former home of Beatles manager Brian Epstein, located on the outskirts of Liverpool, England.

The Abbey, Penzance, Cornwall, England. Owned by former model Jean Shrimpton and her husband, this historic property is located in Penzance, Cornwall. No ordinary hotel, the 1660s building was constructed on the site of an abbey which dated back to the 12th century. Along with the traditionally English rooms (whose guest list has included David Bowie and others), the hotel also boasts a much lauded restaurant.

AFRICA

Ulusaba, South Africa Part of Richard Branson's "Limited Edition by Virgin," this game preserve has two lodges and a pampering style which includes spa treatments and some new romantic suites.

Kasbah Tamadot, Morocco Soon to be the newest member of Richard Branson's "Limited Edition by Virgin" collection of boutique hotels, this small property will be located in the Atlas Mountains.

SOUTH PACIFIC

Hotel Tetiaroa, Tetiaroa, French Polynesia Marlon Brando bought this property in 1967, located 30 miles from Tahiti. He came to the area to film Mutiny on the Bounty and fell in love with his Tahitian co-star, Tarita Terepaia. After marriage and children, today Terepaia, the ex-wife of the late actor, runs the hotel. Here the two of you will find a handful of bungalows on the white beach. Perfect for a quiet honeymoon or getaway.