As you arrive at the front entrance to Villa Koudesoley and amble your way down the steps, into the magnificent open-plan living space, the views of the Indian Ocean and the island of Coin de Mire draw you out immediately, demanding your attention and declaring its beauty. There’ll be little else for you to do for that moment, other than settle yourself in your stride and drift out with the spectacular sight of blue.
Occupying a secluded stretch of sand, directly on the beach of Cap Malheureux, this hideaway – with its avant-garde attire and ample entertaining spaces – invokes a giddy holiday temperament that’s eager to surface. The property is set on one vast level of living, dining, entertaining and reclining spaces, long verandahs that meet a dreamy swimming pool, blending in with the tones of the water below. A tropical garden of bougainvillea hedges and palms, a built-in beach with sun loungers, and languid outdoor seating scattered beneath the trees. Five beautiful bedrooms – three of which are ensuite – flank the living areas, with a separate ensuite that has its own little terrace upstairs. A TV/family room and two kitchens – a scullery space and long cooking area – seclude themselves from the main living rooms, allowing for all of the entertaining to take place around the living areas, whilst the chefs work their magic behind the scenes.
Aside from a lot of feasting around the tables, watching the sun glide through the skies throughout the hours of the day, the sails drift with the tides and the palms dance with the breeze, you’ll be teasing that giddy temperament with plenty of holiday activities that this flamboyant region has to offer. After an early morning swim in the sea, you’ll enjoy that first brew of the day on the terrace, watching the ocean life drift by. You’ll venture into the town of Grand Baie for a spot of grocery or boutique shopping, then return home to the bungalow for another dip in the water. Maybe a snorkel or a sail, a paddle or stroll along the beach. Pack a picnic and head off on a boat to one of the neighbouring islands. If you’re really serious about the boat you can hire a catamaran and his captain for some island hopping and swimming in the pristine waters of Coin de Meir and Gabriel Isle. You’ll spend the early evenings on the terrace with a round of delicious cocktails and riveting conversations. If you’re lucky enough to be at Villa Koudesoley during the full moon you’ll get to witness the spectacular sight of it rising above the water. You’ll either head into town for dinner, to one of the lovely local restaurants, or perhaps enjoy the culinary delights of a private chef, as you gather around the long table on the verandah. The night is long and the skies are starry, you and your favourite people are tapping into that giddy nature and embracing island life. It’s as tranquil and eternal as every holiday beside the sea should be.
What we love!
- Enjoying your own, secluded beach in the garden, then walking down some private steps onto the ‘real’ beach and into the water.
- There are plenty of blissful pockets around the property to relax and read. Whether it be one of the glorious bedrooms, on the loungers beside the pool or in the garden. The property is designed around friend and family gatherings.
What you need to know…
- For day excursions of the area, you can hire a boat with a skipper or catamarans and other water sports from the village of Grand Baie. It’s a special place for tranquility in nature, yet just a short drive to the village, to the supermarkets, restaurants, and cafés. As well as all of the essential supplies, just a 5-10 minute drive away.
- The region is a haven for all golf enthusiasts, boasting a number of prestigious courses all within short driving distance from the property.
- There is daily housekeeping available and the lovely ladies who maintain the property are excellent cooks too, serving delicious local dishes.
- For a good breakfast in Grand Baie, head to Blooms – a South African owner dishing up delicious brunches.
- Visit the notable landmark – Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice de Cap Malhereux – the Catholic Church with a red roof.
- Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport is just over an hour’s drive away from the property.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie