Located in the protected marine reserve of Bazaruto Archipelago National Park, just off the coast of Mozambique, andBeyond on Benguerra Island is the ultimate island holiday.
Year round sunshine, warm lapping ocean, diving dolphins, rare dugongs and turtles against the backdrop music of rustling palm trees. Staying at this luxury coastal escape is idyllic, and everyday life here is beautiful, calm and easy. It’s away from the world. What world, you may wonder. Because everything you need is right here.
A five-minute helicopter flip from Vilanculos and you are on Benguerra Island and relaxing at your luxury beach accommodation.
Wondering how you will spend your time at this beachfront accommodation? Days often start with coffee at the landmark dhow beach bar, and they mostly wind down here too as you watch the sun sink into the ocean. But what happens in between is also thoroughly enchanting.
Imagine stepping out of your cabana or casinha onto the beach and enjoying a swim in tepid, turquoise waters. Or you could go scuba diving or horse-riding on the beach and even take a swim with your horse. These island horses love the ocean because it’s part of their home environment. The snorkelling is excellent too, and all you need to do is walk into the ocean to do so.
Plus, there are excursions around the island where you can see daily life in action, or you may choose to escape everyone with a castaway picnic on a remote, white sandy beach. Of course, there’s always the option to nothing at all and kick back at your suite and lounge in and around your pool.
Water sports? Massage? You set the pace
What are the accommodation options at andBeyond Benguerra? Cabanas, a favourite of honeymooners and couples, are cosy, quaint and ideal for romantic getaways; casinhas have an added lounge area. Both have romantic baths in the open-plan bedroom, as well as private plunge pools, and are set in gardens with waving palm trees.
For a family holiday, the casa familia is ideal with three bedrooms and plenty of private space. But no matter where you choose to stay, you step out of your luxury accommodation and onto the beach directly.
With so many activities on offer, there’s something to suit every pace, whether water sports, an afternoon massage, or simply a quiet moment with a book in the shade. This is where slow travel and spontaneous discovery meet.
There’s a hint of Portuguese heritage in the décor, with splashes of blue and patterns reminiscent of the traditional tiles. But cuisine has a definite Portuguese twist and there is plenty of fresh seafood on the menu. If you prefer a hamburger or simply spaghetti bolognaise, that’s also there. Whatever you choose, the food is phenomenal and the staff will delight you. They’re local, happy and proud of this beautiful island they call home – and you can too for a while.
Reviewed by Keri Harvey
Edited by Dawn Kennedy