The argument of “beach vs. bush” is one of long standing amongst holiday-makers indulged enough to have experienced both. There are most certainly steadfast favourites, but an outstanding number of beach bums would take a shade-break to peek at an uninhabited island’s fauna and flora; while camouflaged bird-watchers would shed protective layers and set down the binoculars if the pearly-white beach was but a stride away. This ideal combination can be found on two of Mozambique’s breathtaking islands at Azura Retreats. Azura at Gabriel’s is magnificently sprawled on Benguerra Island, one of five islands in the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park; and Azura at Quilalea – a year-old development, and an island all of its own.
Benguerra Island boasts varied topography, comprised of thick forest, savannah, freshwater lakes and wetland ecosystems. A diverse population of wildlife and vegetation is born of these intermingling ecosystems; truly a nature-lover’s delight. The endless turquoise waters spread lavishly outwards, providing an ocean of excellence where snorkelers can spot as many as 1200 recorded fish species. On this island dwells Azura’s first boutique eco-lodge, epitomising shore-side paradise of the grandest kind. Fifteen villas have been uniquely hand-built by local craftsmen, and equipped with glistening infinity pools sunk into private decks. Just footsteps from the beach, these luxurious suites have been designed with seclusion in mind, so a trip to the water needn’t be a shared experience. The motivation to leave one’s personal beach boudoir is credited almost entirely to the kitchen. Chefs produce plates of sizeable, fresh prawns marinated in peri-peri and sizzled to tantalising perfection before being presented to your anticipatory taste buds. Afterwards, accept an invitation to admire the sunset whilst sailing the calm in a traditional dhow, or venture to any of the solitary beaches to watch the visiting dolphins or pick up pansy shells.
As if a holiday destination couldn’t be more serene, Azura has amplified their offer with the recent introduction of an exclusive private beach resort on Quilalea Island, one of the southernmost in the Quirimbas Archipelago. The island lies in a protected marine reserve, preserving an underwater world, tough to trump and dared not to be missed. Four pristine beaches invite visitors to explore the coastline exclusively and in a fashion as leisurely as can be imagined. Azura’s superb property is the island’s only habitation, comfortably nestled into the indigenous flora of delicate frangipanis and massive baobab trees, exotic birds and tropical fish. The decadent consumption of Quilalea’s guests is always accompanied by changing scenery, as each meal is savoured in a different location on the island. Collapse into tempted slumber in beautifully crafted villa suites, wrapped in coral-stone walls and roofed by makuti thatch, while glassless windows allow a soothing sea-breeze to refresh the tired mind.
Here is where the Great Debate can amicably be put to rest, as beach and bush find an even playing field. Doorsteps are as sandy as the beaches they lead so graciously onto, while a swift turn of the heel will lead the explorer through green groves, to the resting place of ancient baobab trees, and the vibration of excitable birds overhead. Sun lizards and land lovers unite; Azura Retreats has the best of both on offer, providing an irresistible island experience to remember in Mozambique’s renowned archipelagos.
