As you arrive at the front entrance to Villa Koudesoley and amble your way down the steps, into the magnificent open-plan living space, the views of the Indian Ocean and the island of Coin de Mire draw you out immediately, demanding your attention and declaring its beauty. There’ll be little else for you to do for that moment, other than settle yourself in your stride and drift out with the spectacular sight of blue.
Occupying a secluded stretch of sand, directly on the beach of Cap Malheureux, this hideaway – with its avant-garde attire and ample entertaining spaces – invokes a giddy holiday temperament that’s eager to surface. The property is set on one vast level of living, dining, entertaining and reclining spaces, long verandahs that meet a dreamy swimming pool, blending in with the tones of the water below. A tropical garden of bougainvillea hedges and palms, a built-in beach with sun loungers, and languid outdoor seating scattered beneath the trees. Five beautiful bedrooms – three of which are ensuite – flank the living areas, with a separate ensuite that has its own little terrace upstairs. A TV/family room and two kitchens – a scullery space and long cooking area – seclude themselves from the main living rooms, allowing for all of the entertaining to take place around the living areas, whilst the chefs work their magic behind the scenes.
Aside from a lot of feasting around the tables, watching the sun glide through the skies throughout the hours of the day, the sails drift with the tides and the palms dance with the breeze, you’ll be teasing that giddy temperament with plenty of holiday activities that this flamboyant region has to offer. After an early morning swim in the sea, you’ll enjoy that first brew of the day on the terrace, watching the ocean life drift by. You’ll venture into the town of Grand Baie for a spot of grocery or boutique shopping, then return home to the bungalow for another dip in the water. Maybe a snorkel or a sail, a paddle or stroll along the beach. Pack a picnic and head off on a boat to one of the neighbouring islands.
If you’re really serious about the boat you can hire a catamaran and his captain for some island hopping and swimming in the pristine waters of Coin de Meir and Gabriel Isle. You’ll spend the early evenings on the terrace with a round of delicious cocktails and riveting conversations. If you’re lucky enough to be at Villa Koudesoley during the full moon you’ll get to witness the spectacular sight of it rising above the water. You’ll either head into town for dinner, to one of the lovely local restaurants, or perhaps enjoy the culinary delights of a private chef, as you gather around the long table on the verandah. The night is long and the skies are starry, you and your favourite people are tapping into that giddy nature and embracing island life. It’s as tranquil and eternal as every holiday beside the sea should be.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie