Anantara Bazaruto 

A resort-style island escape in Mozambique’s jewel-like Bazaruto Archipelago.

Set along remote, endless sands and dramatic dunes, the Anantara is the only hotel on the Barazuto archipelago’s largest island. It shares its home with a friendly local community who will happily chat to you about their day’s fishing. And thanks to the resort’s west coast location, at the end of each day you can watch the sun set over the African mainland.

The dazzling mineral-rich waters play host to an extraordinary array of marine life. Spot starfish and hermit crabs in the shallows, while further out you can hope to see turtles, manta rays, four types of dolphin and the rare dugong, as well as humpback whales (mid-June to mid-October) and whale sharks (December to March). The snorkelling and diving opportunities are incredible. Like all of Mozambique’s southern beaches, the beach is tidal, but there’s plenty to do during the times when swimming isn’t an option – the soaring sand dunes provide the opportunity to go horseriding and try out sandboarding.

Food here is delicious, with giant prawns and crayfish, and Thai and Malay-inspired curries. Three restaurants include characterful Golfinho, with original walls from Portuguese trading days; the Tartaruga beach deck specialising in grilled meat and seafood specialities; and Clube Naval for light lunches and pizzas by the pool. Dining by design offers romantic dinners set up for you on the beach or in the privacy of your own villa. The resort cleverly caters for adults and families, with a quiet adults-only beachfront pool as well as a family-friendly pool. The Anantara Spa is a highlight, with a gloriously romantic setting. It’s open until 10pm – sunset massages in a private spot amongst the dunes and a bottle of Champagne in the Jacuzzi at sundown both come recommended.

Large thatched villas are dotted along the hillside and the beachfront. Beach Villas have beautiful sunset views. Huge Deluxe Seaview Pool Villas sit high up on the dunes, a short golf buggy ride from the beach. With a private plunge pool and two bedrooms, they’re a great option for families and friends travelling together.