About 40 minutes along a rough red dirt road from Vilanculos (you need a 4×4 or a staff pickup to get here), Villas do Indico is a gorgeous hideaway, set in spacious green grounds, and bordering the ocean. While other resorts tap into luxury or fine food, Villas do Indico knows a thing or two about harnessing the strengths of nature. The resort could be dubbed eco chic; picture sun-dappled grounds decorated with driftwood outdoor furniture and cosy, fairly-produced Mozambican chairs.

We loved the coves that are sprinkled throughout the grounds. Perfect for chilling out, they range from beanbags in cool fabric, to white string hammocks, soft sun-loungers, and tented gazebos. With wooden beams and clay sculptures, the place looks like something out of a magazine; albeit one that shuns pretension in favor of getting in touch with nature. Best of all is the calm vibe that permeates everything from a dinner at the open-decked restaurant to a swim in the large pool.

The casas work that eco chic vibe to perfection. They have tall roofs, private balconies, (also with beautiful furniture), billowing mosquito nets, and lamps in all shapes and sizes. If only the generator power was a little more reliable…but still, who cares when you’re getting in touch with nature? The bathrooms are a work of art, with curved shower coves that let in the sun. The restaurant is run by a charming chef who knows a thing or two about good, home-cooked food. The menu isn’t the most inventive we’ve come across, but it includes favorites like samosas, fresh fish, Mozambican shrimp, and greek salads. There’s also a cute lounge area, travel-themed bookcase, and magazine rack.

Wildlife-watching expeditions happen regularly, and you can reserve a spot on turtle-spotting trips, or whale shark-themed outings. The usual Vilanculos horseback riding, diving, or snorkelling trips can also be arranged. The resort works with an excellent and knowledgeable 4×4 driver who is enthusiastic about taking guests on excursions into the nearby countryside. Pickups can easily be arranged from the airport or other Vilanculos hotels.