The ivory sands and dreamily waving palm trees of Fort Morgan Cay hide a history that belies the island's idyllic surface. A favorite hideout of one of the most notorious real-life "Pirates of the Caribbean", Sir Henry Morgan, the island is now offered for private rental as a luxurious escape from the modern world.

Fort Morgan Cay is a picture-perfect image of the best that the Caribbean has to offer. The island's 29 acres encompass long stretches of the most beautiful beaches in the region, a mangrove-lined canal for kayaking, and an intimate and well-named little cove known as "Silencio".

Best described as "elegant camping", the spacious home features four bedrooms, two of which open to the bay to overlook the turquoise Caribbean waters, and all are appointed with private baths. Providing maid and laundry service, the attentions of a dedicated staff ensure that your experience at Fort Morgan Cay includes all of the comfort and convenience of a large resort. Meals by your personal chef are included in the rental cost, and also available for guest use is internet access and a library and game room.

But with the unlimited use of equipment for snorkling, kayaking and other watersports, it's unlikely that you'll be spending much time in the library. Transported to a much simpler world, you'll certainly forgo surfing the net for absorbing the natural beauty of the tropical environment with walks on the pristine beaches or through the wild palm forest. The historic British fort from which part of the island's name is derived lies romantically in ruin on the coast, and also of interest is a well used by the original pirate inhabitants.

The nearby Roatan is the largest of the local islands, and available amenities include shopping, a vibrant nightlife, and an international airport. A mere two-hour flight from Houston or Miami, the Bay Islands of Honduras are one of the closest Caribbean destinations for US travellers, with many flights connecting directly to Roatan.

Offering the ultimate in resort convenience with the seclusion and intimacy of a private island home, your time spent on the beautiful Fort Morgan Cay will be an unforgettable experience you'll soon want to repeat.