Villa Marape

Description

Where the waters are those transparent, mellow blankets of blue and the trees are occupied by monkeys giddily scrambling for coconuts and mangoes. The beaches are an endless runway of vanilla and the image you have of yourself denotes a tranquil tale of eternal bliss, as you succumb to the sun’s warm rays, under a hat, with a drink in hand, a book in the other and a willing participation in barefoot luxury.

Very few places, if any, come close to the idyllic attributes of the archipelago islands of Mozambique. A place where the rustic marries the regal with honour and integrity, and then elopes with your heart for the rest of your days.

Settled on the tip of the San Sebastian peninsula, just off the vibrant mainland town of Vilankulo House Marape languidly rests upon the southern shoreline of the Vilankulos Coastal Wildlife Sanctuary, where some of the richest biodiversity in Mozambique exists. Five exquisitely chic individual villas, with their indoor and outdoor luxury bathing facilities – dart off down meandering wooden walkways with wrought iron railings, sitting in the canopy of the trees, overlooking the ocean. The main fabric of the property comprises of an open living and lounging space with a gorgeous bar, long, spacious decks with daybeds and recliners, a swimming pool and a dining area – where all of the indulging of the fresh tropical fruit, sizzling seafood and fine Xima, peri peri, pão and spicy mango achar feasting takes place. The interiors have been cleverly considered and stylishly executed by the owners who have a discerning eye for textiles, colours, local earthenware, cabinetry and craft. Its rough, raw stone, polished concrete and thatch hold the spaces together with authenticity.

An Island to yourself with the hideaway being so secluded on the peninsula you get the feeling you have paradise all to yourself. You’ll spend your days with your bevy of family and friends, lounging around the comfy recliners, under the trees, listening to the birds and the soothing sea waves as they drift in and out. A slow game of cards or scrabble or backgammon is on the go, as the occasional Eland saunters along the beach, dodging the cute crabs that are burrowing their way through the sand.

The odd dip in the pool then back to all of those books you’re ploughing through or perhaps finally preparing that memoir for print. A place like Marape holds those hidden chapters that are willing to surface when inspiration presents itself.

You’ll spend hours in the water, on little boats, swimming with the turtles and rays and dolphin. Occasionally you’ll head out to the deep sea and go fishing, or remain in the shallows for some snorkelling and canoeing. Savouring every simple moment of what epitomises an idyllic elopement to pure and utter paradise.

Marape is so remote and secluded you feel as if you have an island all to yourself. Its positioning and being ensconced in nature induces a holistic notion to holidaying.
You don’t feel like you ever have to leave the resort, though it’s always exciting and inspiring when you do. But pack a bag full of books and some art material, sewing tapestries and knitting needles and get creative. Allow the inspiration to flow.
The staff of Marape are wonderful people who cater to your basic housekeeping and meals. Serving delightful, fresh local cuisine, sourced from the mainland’s market places and the ocean. The rest is self service.
Swimming with the ocean wildlife and exploring the coastline by boat, or just those glorious long walks along the beach.
The sunsets are breathtaking and the night skies with their endless displays of shooting stars add that extra dollop of romance to the whole experience.