Azura

Mozambique’s first luxury eco-boutique retreat, built and operated in partnership with the local community, Azura has raised the country’s luxury benchmark to new unsurpassed heights. Located on Benguerra Island, renowned for its miles of deserted beaches and clear turquoise waters, Azura boasts 15 gloriously stylish villas, most with their own infinity pool. Pure pampering and privacy are the keynotes here.

A sensational blend of contemporary modern chic with all that is traditional in Mozambique, each villa is a private sanctuary – designed with the utmost seclusion in mind. Each nestles amidst the indigenous trees and bush, just steps from the island’s pristine white sand. A fusion of indoor and outdoor space with little but the gentle sea breezes and the rustle of swaying palms to disturb the solitude, Azura is an idyllic island hideaway – so far from everyday pressures – and yet so easily accessible.

There are 3 Luxury Beach Villas, each with a plunge pool and 11 Infinity Beach Villas with a private 5 metre infinity pool. All have a kingsize bed with draped mosquito net, a large bathroom with panoramic views, a beachside sala, an expansive sundeck – and of course, personal butler service. There is also one Presidential Villa with two bedrooms and a larger infinity pool.

The public areas are equally as open to the beach and sea. Feel the sand between your toes in the Beach Bar – or snack on fresh sushi at the Star Bar. Newly appointed chef, Edmund Viljoen, joins Azura from Birkenhead House where he was head chef - and comes with a wealth of experience including roles at Waddeson Manor, Fish Hoek Restaurant in Chiswick and the world renowned Fat Duck in Bray. Much of the produce is locally caught or  home grown – and where you eat is very much up to you. A candlelit dinner on the beach beneath the stars is simply a ‘must’.

Make the most of the ocean – and fill your days snorkelling, diving, fishing, sailing on Azura’s dhow, cruising to deserted beaches and even swimming with dolphins. Landrover excursions and island walks with a beach picnic are all part of the experience… and when revitalisation beckons, retreat to the uniquely African Spa where you can indulge in a variety of signature treatments based on local ingredients and traditions.

Azura (brand new for October 2007) is accessible via a 10 minute light aircraft flight or by state-of-the-art helicopter from Vilanculos.

PRICES Prices from £239 per person per night twin share including all meals, local drinks, a 30 minute back and neck massage at the Spa on arrival (subject to availability), an Island Drive and a Sunset Dhow Cruise (for stays of 3 nights or more). The light aircraft or helicopter transfer from Vilanculos are additional. Flights from the UK from £739 (including £185 tax) with South Afican Airways