Quilálea

Nestling in a corner of Mozambique’s Quirimbas Archipelago, Quilálea is a 35-hectare private island of unparalleled natural beauty, completely removed from civilisation. A diverse marine sanctuary fringed with unspoilt beaches and surrounded by the warm Indian Ocean, the only residents on Quilálea are its guests, staff and wildlife - life surely doesn’t get much more intimate than this!

Quilálea has only nine striking villas meticulously handcrafted from traditional Muani natural stone and Makuti palm thatch. Large windows allow the sea breeze to waft through the entire villa whilst private decks and showers boast commanding views of the azure ocean. Indigenous teak furnishings and beds draped in netting complete the romantic African-Arabian ambience.

Delight in the flavours and spices of Mozambican cuisine served either in the open-terraced restaurant, alfresco on the beach or in the privacy of your villa.

Voted ‘Best Dive Spot’ by Harpers & Queen 2003, the reef and coral banks around Quilálea are a paradise for divers and snorkellers. Sport fishing and deep-sea angling outside the protected sanctuary can be arranged and equipment is provided for your use. Soak up the sun by the swimming pool or on the beach, or explore the waters around the island by traditional dhow or canoe - the Quilálea experience involves doing as little or as much as you desire!

Quilálea is best accessed via a flight from Johannesburg or Maputo to Pemba, where an awaiting 25-minute air charter to the neighbouring Quirimbas Island connects with a 20 minute boat transfer.

PRICES Prices from £210 per person per night twin share including all meals, snorkelling, dhow sailing and the return boat transfer. The air charter is additional. Prices inclusive of diving are also available. Flights from the UK from £739 (including £185 tax) with South Afican Airways