The Clooper Guide To Victoria Island
Victoria Island is a wealthy neighbourhood. This exclusive residential, commercial, and leisure hub with excellent infrastructure houses the majority of the top companies and a diverse mix of everything from around the world.
V.I is conveniently located between Ikoyi and Lekki 1, making it an ideal location for many of the best bits. Victoria Island is unique in its own right.
V.I. has fine dining, modern nightclubs and bars, and opulent hotels and lounges. It is also the location of several office headquarters on the island. It is also a great place to live, and arguably one of the most expensive places to live in Lagos, if not Nigeria.
This picturesque, affluent business and finance district, which is densely packed with skyscrapers and high-rise buildings, also has a vibrant nightlife scene.
It is the primary commercial and financial centre of Lagos State, Nigeria. Victoria Island is ultimately one of the most affluent and expensive neighbourhoods in Lagos.
During the week, commuting may involve getting stuck in traffic (due to the density of high-rise office headquarters), but weekends are relatively easy.
PROPERTIES AND PRICES
TO BUY
Victoria Island is an affluent business and financial hub. It is also THE place to be for HNIs (high network individuals). This is reflected in the cost of purchasing or renting a home in this area. It is an exclusive address.
A high-end 4-bedroom apartment in a high-end neighbourhood of V.I will set you back around N360,000,000
TO RENT
This location is typically expensive because it appeals to both large blue chip companies and individuals.
Renting a two-bedroom apartment can cost up to N6,500,000 per year. This is not inclusive of deposits, service fees, and other charges.
TO STAY
Luxury serviced apartments in V.I. and its surrounding areas can start at N90,000 per night. You can view some of our professionally managed properties by clicking here.
THINGS TO DO
Visit Alara
ALARA is a work of art designed by world-renowned architect David Adjaye OBE. The world’s leading architect, with projects such as the $500 million Smithsonian National Museum of African American Culture and History and the Nobel Peace Centre in Oslo on his resume. He created this one-of-a-kind exhibition-style retail masterpiece in the heart of V.I.,
Within 3,200 square feet of unique architecture, the contemporary African design store features a multi-level design and art gallery, rooftop terrace, and restaurant. It is a one-stop shopping location for all your retail needs.
This one-of-a-kind store carries international luxury and fashion brands for both men and women. The first West African brand to officially retail premium brands such as Valentino, Zuhair Murad, Bottega Veneta and Elie Saab, as well as Saint Laurent, Lanvin, Oscar de la Renta, and Stella McCartney.
Alara also carries African designers like Maki Oh, Duro Olowu, and Loza Malheombo, and has projects that support and expose emerging African designers and artists in fashion, interior design, and visual art.
Explore The Beach (Landmark, Oniru Private Beach, and more)
Going to the beach is one of the best things to do in Lagos for fun. There are beaches (private and public owned) all over Lagos, and the best part is there’s a beach for every budget!
Landmark Beach
Landmark Beach is a private beach. Open to members and non-members, this beach has become the go-to for beach lovers who want a clean, sane, and serene time out on the beach. Ticketed with online booking, Landmark Beach is definitely a beach to check out if you are on the V.I axis.
Muri Okunola Park
If you’re in Lagos, especially on the island, Muri Okunola is a nice place to relax, hang out with friends, and even attend concerts or events.
It’s one of several parks in Lagos State, and this is one of the larger ones. Because of its large capacity and beautiful scenery, people hold events and concerts here.
This park is almost always bustling with activity throughout the year. Weddings, festivals, fashion shows, themed parties, and other special occasions happen here every time.
Galleries
If you are a lover of art, stop by galleries like Terra Kulture to explore the best of arts, stage plays, culture, travel and cuisine. Visit Red Door, and House Glass to take in art pieces (you may be lucky to be in time for exhibitions and private viewings) and even perfect, pick up one-of-a-kind art if you can afford it at the time.
Eko Atlantic (Atlantic City Towers)
Visit Eko Atlantic if you decide to book a short stay at this impressive real estate haven to explore the edifices. Get breakfast with a view at one of the top restaurants nestled within it. The thorough space for HNIs, Eko Atlantic, is almost a tourist attraction if you get a pass in.
Fine Dining
Victoria Island is home to a lot of top restaurants. Not exaggerating, but this location houses a lot of the best brunch, dinner, and generally fine dining spots in Lagos.
Nok by Alara
Led by Executive Chef Pierre Thiam, who is renowned for his evolution of the African fusion cuisine genre, ALARA’s sister restaurant, NOK, opened in December 2015 to rave reviews.
The 60-seat restaurant serves Nigerian and Pan-African fine-dining cuisine and has a terrace garden bar with seating for up to 150 guests in this one-of-a-kind space.
Definitely try out Nok’s raved Amala or the seafood okro stew with red pounded yam if you are feeling adventurous!
Kapadoccia
Try Nigeria’s first cave restaurant for a beautiful setting for brunch and dinner, lit by lanterns. With its picturesque setting, this restaurant provides a Turkish experience with its Cappadocia theme.
When you visit V.I., make sure to try their cocktails and seafood menu. Reservations are required for all bookings.
Top Rated Hotels
Eko Hotel & Suites
Eko Hotels & Suites is without a doubt one of the best hotels in West Africa! It is located in the heart of Victoria Island and is preferred by top shots all over the country. Eko Hotel & Suites is a great place to stay.
You can listen to music while swimming in the pool. Enjoy karaoke sessions with friends and family while sipping cocktails and finger foods, or check into one of their beautiful rooms with breathtaking views for some quality time away from the hustle.
The spa treatment is good! And the food is an absolute must-try.
Radisson Blu
Visit Radisson Blu if you love cocktails in a pristine location, good food and a weekend getaway in the heart of V.I
Lagos Continental
Lagos continental is another hotel to explore for quality getaways, breakfast treats away from the hustle and bustle of Lagos
Nordic and Landmark Beach Resort are also places to check out whenever you are in V.I for a good time.
Civic Centre
One of Lagos’s largest and most prestigious convention centres. Many local and international events have taken place there. The venue has hosted grand events and is a work of art in the heart of V.I.
Amenities
V.I is a haven for nature lovers. There are well-kept parks, gardens, and beaches here. You’ll be able to find anything you need in minutes, including malls, supermarkets, and gyms.
You will find high-end boutiques, top cosmetics stores as well as lounges, bars, cafes and restaurants within minutes.
There are numerous supermarkets, gyms, and other facilities nearby, depending on your preferences and budget. V.I. has excellent infrastructure and road networks.
Education
Living in Victoria Island provides its own educational opportunities, as there are several good schools within walking distance.
So, if you’re looking to relocate your family or enrol your children in good local schools that offer A levels, here are some good recommendations for nursery, primary, and secondary schools.
Corona School
Crescent Schools
American International School of Lagos
Nouveau
Victoria Island Secondary School
British International School
Airforce Primary school
The River Bank School
Lycée Français Louis Pasteur de Lagos
Looking to explore V.I? Looking to explore? Book an apartment here.
Featured image: Unsplash/ Nupo Deyon Daniel
