Of the few luxury resorts I’ve stayed at in Mozambique, White Pearl Resort in Ponta Mamoli is definitely at the top of my list.

The resort is situated on a relatively untouched stretch of beach, to which it has exclusive access. The common guest areas epitomize “beachside chic,” and are decorated in shades of white and aqua. Cocoon chairs and oversized day beds are spread across the deck, while suites are completely private, with private decks and plunge pools.

The resort’s beach bar offers dining with traditional Mozambican flair — I thoroughly enjoyed the peri-peri chicken and giant prawns, which were soaked in lemon and garlic. Lunch is kept casual, but dinner, which comes included in the half-board rate, is more of a classy affair, with a Mozambican dish on the menu every night. My favourite dish was “Piexe Grelhado,” grilled herb-crusted barracuda cutlet served with crushed potatoes and a paprika, lemon and tomato sauce.

The breakfast menu is non existent — I was able to ask for anything my heart desired, which on that day, happened to be cinnamon and sugar pancakes. In addition to that, I was also served a three-tiered stand for my first course, with muesli, yoghurt and pastries.

The resort offers numerous beach activities, including a PADI-accredited dive centre, where guests can dive on one of the world’s top pinnacle reefs. Unfortunately, during my visit, the sea was too rough to take a boat out. Instead, I went horse riding along the beach. Even though it was only my second time riding, the guides made me feel completely at ease.