Quilalea, at just 1.2 km long and .5 km wide, is one of the smaller islands in the multi-island Quirimbas archipelago in Mozambique’s northern reaches. Here 1000-year-old baobab trees soar above the thick jungle canopy, giant monitor lizards creep amongst the greenery, and miles of warm, shallow water teem with sea turtles and tropical fish that gently nibble at bright coral reefs.

This natural bounty is the key to the appeal of the swank Azura resort, the only one on the island. With no TV, phone or internet in the rooms (and only limited connectivity in the bar area), the idea is to shut out the “real world” and tune into your surroundings. Guests have privacy, peace and quiet while indulging in their Robinson Crusoe fantasies or watersports obsessions.

Sportfishing, scuba diving, kayaking and mangrove tours are all on the agenda for those who want explore the underwater world, and snorkeling is available at the reef just off the main beach and bar area. These activities are highly dependent on the wind and tides, but even if your sport of choice is not available, there’s always something else you can do. Less-active pursuits include wandering the 2km-long nature trail where one can admire the birdlife, hermit crab colonies and cliff-top views. During my visit we got to witness the staff moving a freshly-laid batch of turtle eggs from a vulnerable spot close to the waterline to a safer spot higher up the beach.

It’s also easy to spend an afternoon strolling along the beach, watching sand crabs skitter amongst the colorful coral rubble as dhows lazily float by. Even better, just plant yourself on the sun lounger by the newly-renovated pool or in the cozy library and read a book (or two) from cover to cover, as I did on my recent stay. You’ll rarely encounter another human, as the resort can only accommodate a maximum of about 20 people at a time.

Azura has just eight spacious, airy rooms – plus an extra-large villa – with chic island-rustic design and all mod cons to satisfy even the most demanding guest: hairdryers, mini-fridges, mosquito repellent, air conditioning and even woven beach bags. The indoor-outdoor showers are wonderfully indulgent, as are the extra-wide king-size beds which the staff adorn with local flowers and leaves during evening turn-down service.

Though the resort does not boast a famous chef nor a signature dish, the food is outstanding, and naturally seafood features heavily on the menu. Meals are occasionally served in the beachside restaurant, but more often on the sand or in the jungle under the baobabs. It’s a dining experience you won’t forget. And if you have special dietary needs, the chefs are happy to oblige.

Managers Leon and Claudia make every guest feel personally welcomed and comfortable, and though some of the other staff speak only limited English, they are overwhelmingly friendly and helpful. Azura Quilalea is truly a magical little paradise where everything is taken care of and all you have to do is eat, sleep and explore whenever the mood strikes you.