It’s apparent that the owners of Saudade – also owners of the neighbouring Vilanculos beach retreat, Villa Coco – know a thing or two about creating an utterly sublime sanctuary beside the sea that is listed in our hot list.
From the romance of the thatch on the roof to the weaving threads of wicker in the furniture. The reed in the rugs, the screed across the surfaces and the built-in dreamy beds and bathtubs, the outdoor showers and ample seating areas.
Statements on their expertise are made in the layers and layers of texture that authentically declare this hideaway’s intent. That is, to welcome you and your favourite beach companions to loosen your strides, lighten your thoughts and let the blues of the sensational view carry the tempo.
Accommodating as many as sixteen of your family in its six mammoth suites – including a really cool bunk room for the younger ones – Saudade is the perfect spot beside the Indian Ocean, ensconced in the bliss of Mozambique, to host memorable family gatherings, small weddings or milestone celebrations.
Being located next door to its sister villa, this beach hideaway could also lend itself as one of those large retreats for all to gather alongside one another. Having access to the beach and all of its activities. Being catered to around the clock by the truly exceptional staff that tend to your every need. Including the incredible meals and wonderful island excursions by boat. All you have to do is show up on the shoreline right in front, climb aboard and sail off for a day’s adventures around the Archipelago Islands. Lunch picnics prepared and snorkel kit packed. Fishing rods ready to cast out for that catch of the day.
Relax in the lap of luxury
Of course, it’s likely that you’ll spend much of your time on the grounds of the villa. Lapping up those tranquil moments in the exposed living, dining and entertaining spaces. Some areas sheltered with their retractable shutters and sliding enclaves, others immersed in the outdoor elements. Overlooking that beautiful ocean with its speckled islands in sight. There’s a pétanque court and plenty of rolling lawn for some cartwheeling down to the beach. And then there’s that swimming pool. A circular body of water that beckons you in to wade about for hours on end, witnessing the colours of the ocean and the horizon evolve with the day.
The meaning of Saudade comes from the Portuguese sentiment to evoke a feeling of nostalgia. Although everything about this beautiful beach villa is relatively new and finely fitted with finesse, there is a an age-old presence here, that conjures up feelings of long ago. A Robinson Crusoe-esque era of island life. An authentic connection to the Mozambican coastline, its local treasures and wonderful people that inhabit the area. You might be ensconced in luxury around the clock, but you’ll definitely find yourselves slipping into a slow Saudade serenade from time to time, too.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie
Edited by Dawn Kennedy