Halcyon beach idyll for laid back beachlife
A seaside holiday home that harnesses the raw and rugged beauty of the Mozambican coast, Villa Ponta is an idyllic landing pad for slow family holidays.
If the gentle pace of an Indian Ocean holiday calls you, there’s little doubt that Villa Ponta – perched beachside and rising above a dense tropical garden – will be the place for it. Attuned to the unique spirit of Mozambican culture, Villa Ponta has a rare sense of place that lingers with holiday makers long after they’ve left. The result is a yearning to return. Located just beyond the bustle of town on a secluded fishing bay, the house is rooted to the ebb and flow of local fishing rituals. Simultaneously, it claims unspoiled views of the pristine Bazaruto Archipelago marine reserve, where renowned islands like Bazaruto and Benguerra lie in wait of a day’s exploration. Only 6km from Vilanculos, a morning exploring the markets and roadside craft stalls of this little-developed town is a must. Villa Ponta is geared to comfortably accommodate up to eight of your favourite people over four bedrooms. Built by design-loving owners over 25 years ago, the home’s combination of timber and thatch sits comfortably within its natural surrounds while lofty proportions in the open plan living and dining area lend the house a sense of scale. A large deck, complete with generous wicker armchairs overlooks the lush tropical garden, opening up to a seemingly infinite backdrop of azure waters and traversing boats. It’s here, in the lulling embrace of a hammock or feet up on the daybed with a good book, that you will discover absolute tranquility.
Whether down at the beach with the kids, poolside for a cooling dip followed by a fish braai, or in the stillness of dawn at the little lookout point, Villa Ponta brings richness to ordinary experiences. It’s a property with a profound sense of comfort and a laidback, familial ambience. You’ll be looked after by two of the most cherished staff members, both warm individuals who uphold the magic of this beach house and have done so for decades.
Set sail in your very own dhow
Villa Ponta is an understated gem of a vacation home that connects you to a world of rich experiences. Head out for the day on a snorkelling or diving excursion along the protected reefs of the archipelago, stroll along the water’s edge in a mangrove-lined fishing bay or immerse yourself in the warm and gentle waters of the Indian Ocean. Savour the sunset from the Red Cliffs, journey into town to select the ingredients for your next communal feast or marvel at the stars from a deckchair in the garden.
What we love!
- Observing from the viewing point as the fishermen begin their days at the crack of dawn, setting sail for an honest day at sea. This simple luxury brings about an authentic connection to the time-honoured traditions of this beautiful region. The location of this unique property and allows you to witness such sights while having your own direct access to the beach in just minutes.
- The flexibility that the home’s living and lounging spaces offer for groups. Sneak off for a day nap (book on chest), a lazy hammock session or a dip in the pool, or hang out with the group around the braai, up on the deck with a glass of something cold or linger at the dinner table with a boardgame from the bookshelf.
- The obvious, but not themed African bent to the interiors, owing to the owner’s history of travel and their love of collecting. Ethiopian chairs, wicker seating, Zimbabwean tribal chests, artisanal tables, and diverse collectables add soul and authenticity to the place.
What you need to know…
- The property is located 6kms north of Vilanculos, just a short drive from the airport. It’s the ideal spot to pivot from, should you wish to go out exploring the beautiful Bazaruto Archipelago, the Bazaruto National Park, and all of the lovely islands including Santa Carolina (Paradise Island), Benguerra, Magaruque and Bangue.
- Villa Ponta is serviced daily, under the hospitable hands of Johnny and Sergio. Johnny has been a valued part of the family for over two decades, servicing the guests’ requests, sourcing local ingredients from town, skippering the dhow and bringing his incredible grace and friendliness to the experience of guests daily.
- Originally named, Ponta Duvini, Portuguese for house on the point – overlooking a 2km stretch of bay, with a cluster of red cliffs and dunes that are perfect for climbing and watching the sunset.
- There’s a little island unofficially named Dead Man’s Island that’s only 20 minutes away by dhow. It disappears completely at high tide and returns during low tide – about 100m x 20m of pristine and often solitary beauty. This poses a wonderful excursion for the whole family to frolic about on the island when the tide is in sync.
- Explore the extensive ruins of a famous art deco hotel on Paradise Island. About an hour by boat, it’s called Paradise for good reason. Bring your snorkel and flippers along; you won’t regret it.
- For a truly authentic experience, Villa Ponta owns a traditional dhow which is moored in the bay in front of the house. It is available to rent, with Johnny as a skipper. There is also a deep-sea boat called Tabasco, which is equipped with two 135hp 4-stroke motors. You can rent her for a day through the manager.
- A charcoal BBQ is available at the pool as no open fires are allowed in this region. Should you wish to have a private chef in the kitchen during your stay, this will need to be arranged prior to your arrival. They can then head to the local markets, source fresh prawns or seafood ingredients and prepare your meals.
- The property also has a generator for backup power during occasional power cuts.
- If Villa Ponta is not available for your dates, browse our full collection of exclusive-use holiday houses in Mozambique.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie