Azura

Described by Tatler as 'Robinson Crusoe with bells on', Azura is 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 and pure pampering and privacy are the keynotes here. Located on Benguerra Island, renowned for its miles of deserted beaches and clear turquoise waters, Azura boasts 16 gloriously stylish villas, enhanced by their beautifully carved beams, polished wooden floors and traditional artwork set beneath a locally crafted thatched roof.

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, a large bathroom with panoramic views, a beachside sala, an expansive sundeck – and a dedicated Mozambican butler to look after your needs. Azura also boasts a Presidential Villa and the stunning Villa Amizade – a two bedroom villa with a private 10 metre pool (perfect for families or a couple requiring more of a private residence feel). Villa Amizade was recently voted by Conde Nast as one of the 'Best Beach Villas in the World'.

Azura’s top chef combines local ingredients with contemporary style, with an emphasis on fresh fish and seafood – 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. Azura has both a Watersports Centre and a Dive Centre. Landrover excursions and island walks with a beach picnic are all part of the experience… and when revitalisation beckons, retreat to the uniquely African Azura Spa where you can indulge in a variety of signature treatments.

Azura is accessible via a 2 hour scheduled flight from Johannesburg (or Kruger Mpumalanga airport) to Vilanculos in southern Mozambique followed by a 15 minute helicopter flight.