Santorini Mozambique

OVERVIEW:

Santorini Mozambique is a privately owned and run Greek villa-style property, open year-round. The main villa can be booked for exclusive use, and three additional private villas are ideal for families. It’s easy to access and in close proximity to the Bazaruto Archipelago. The atmosphere is informal and low key, and there are spectacular ocean views. A wide range of water- and land-based activities allows guests to choose their own pace, with horse-riding a particularly memorable experience along the powder-white beaches of Vilanculos. Rates include all meals, a selection of alcoholic and soft drinks, return transfers from Vilankulo Airport, and a laundry service. For bookings of three nights or more, a complimentary private snorkelling trip to Magaruque Island is included, on one of Santorini’s boats. This includes a picnic lunch, refreshments, and an optional stop at Pansy Island.

ACCESS & LOCATION:

Santorini Mozambique is located 10 km north of the small coastal village of Vilanculos in south-eastern Mozambique. This area is known as the ‘gateway’ to the Bazaruto Archipelago, and its magnificent islands – covered mostly by marine national park – are accessible by boat from the hotel. Guests arrive at Vilanculos Airport, where Santorini has a private airport lounge for guest use only. From there, it’s a short 25–30-minute car transfer.

ACCOMMODATION & FACILITIES AT SANTORINI MOZAMBIQUE:

There are five guest suites within Santorini Mozambique’s main villa, in addition to the one-bedroom Villa na Colina, two-bedroom The Chapel, and four-bedroom Villa da Praia. Each of the five villa suites is named after an island within the Bazaruto Archipelago – Santa Carolina, Banque, Magaruque, Benguerra, and Bazaruto. Individually and exquisitely styled, all feature a king-size bed with mosquito netting, air conditioning, a ceiling fan, built-in cupboards containing kikoi gowns, beach sarongs, and a beach bag for guest use. The en-suite facilities typically comprise a separate toilet, double vanity unit, and shower – and Magaruque also has a bathtub. All villa suites boast beautiful views. The one-bedroom Villa na Colina is a hillside unit, with a private courtyard and heated pool tucked away amongst palm trees with ocean views in the distance. The Chapel, positioned a short distance from the villa, has two en-suite bedrooms, an open-plan living space with lounge, dining area, and bar, plus a rim-flow pool! It’s an excellent option for a small group of friends or family members, or a honeymoon couple who would appreciate extra privacy. Finally, Villa da Praia offers four en-suite bedrooms, each with a private patio or terrace, luxurious living/dining areas, and a rim-flow pool. This villa is perfect for families and larger groups, and includes a dedicated private host.

The communal living and dining areas at Santorini Mozambique are based in and around the property’s main villa, with an open-plan design accommodating numerous relaxation areas. These include a lounge featuring comfortable seating amidst coffee and occasional tables, a selection of reading material, a telescope, striking wall artwork, and a corner bar. There’s a TV room and even a sunset sala for magical evenings watching the sun descend into the ocean. The villa’s dining space incorporates a long table inviting everyone to eat together, although private meals can be arranged on request. The pool courtyard contains an inviting swimming pool, a pizza oven, gas barbecue, and breathtaking views! Just a stone’s throw from the villa, there’s The Pansy Shell, a gift shop stocked with clothes, accessories, souvenir items, and essentials, and up in the hills surrounding the property, there’s Spa Na Colina, where anyone in need of a spot of pampering can enjoy a wonderful range of revitalising treatments inspired by the treasures of the ocean – bliss!

ACTIVITIES AT SANTORINI MOZAMBIQUE:

Santorini Mozambique offers an exciting variety of activities:

• Boat charters

  – The property owns a luxurious Supercat 38 Sport named Aphrodite. Manned by a knowledgeable and experienced skipper, this vessel can be used for whale watching, snorkelling, sport fishing, and exploring the inner reefs and islands. Half-day and full-day excursions are available.

• Scuba diving

  – Dives are arranged through a local PADI centre. The Bazaruto Archipelago is one of the Indian Ocean’s biggest marine conservation areas, and its reefs contain an absolute treasure trove of sea life. Species you can expect to see include tropical fish, green turtles, dolphins, humpback whales, and whale sharks! And there are plenty of dive sites too.

• Bill fishing

  – Why not hop on board Santorini’s Big Blue fishing boat and enjoy a fishing trip or two? The year’s highlights feature marlin from September to January and sailfish from April to August. Please note that only catch and release is allowed.

• Horse safaris

  – All riders are welcome to saddle up and explore Vilanculos on horseback. The standard 1 hour 30-minute ride involves the area’s pristine sands, dune bush, mangrove shore, and cliff-top views. More experienced riders can head out on even longer adventures!

• Kite surfing

  – This activity is also available for all levels. A local company offers one-, two-, or three-day courses and a boat-supported lesson! The Bazaruto region is considered a kite surfer’s paradise due to its flat waters and consistent winds.

• Dhow safaris

  – Transportation choice for sailors, settlers, and merchants alike, the traditional dhow offers a magical method of getting to know the Bazaruto islands. Sunset safaris can be organised too!

• Scenic helicopter flights

  – For breathtaking vistas over the archipelago, guests can take to the skies in a luxury helicopter and even do a little island hopping if desired.