Made up of just over 30 coral islands just off the coast of northern Mozambique, the Quirimbas Archipelago is off the tourist track and therefore beautifully pristine and the sea rich with marine life. Pretty coral shells cover the white sandy beaches and the forest almost falls into the water. The fauna and flora untouched, butterflies and exotic birds rule the landscape, making it a true nature-lover paradise. With a handful of luxury lodges pampering to every need, this is true barefoot chic. If you are looking for serenity, this is the place with only the sound of the occasional fishermen to be heard in the water. One to see before the rest of the world discovers this dreamy secret.
TASTE
The lodges at Ibo Island, Vamizi and Azura offer the freshest seafood and dining is located in different spots on beaches and islands to create a beautiful setting for cocktails dinner every night.
EXPERIENCE
The ultimate hideaway, the islands are perfect for lounging and relaxing in the sun all day. However, with the sea teaming with marine life, some of the world's best snorkelling and diving can be found and are an absolute must-do. Napoleon wrasse, morays, puffer fish, nudibranchs and bumphead parrotfish ensure that the Quirimbas is most certainly one of the world's top diving destinations. Dhow or catamaran sailing is another must-do to see and experience the perfect desert islands. With very few islands permanently inhabited, take a picnic and decide where you wish to play Robinson Crusoe. Beautiful islands to stay on or visit include Ibo Island Lodge, which has a wonderful historic town where you can take tours; Quilálea, a tiny island with no historical structures but is tropical island dreamy with the magnificent snorkelling right outside the Azura hotel; Vamizi, has a seven miles long icing-sugar coloured beach and another jet-set luxury lodge experience with the backdrop of the lush forest. Paddling, humpback whale watching, even coral-spawning observation is on the cards at this beautiful lodge.
READ
This is a book-lovers heaven so dig out the list you've been adding writers to and enjoy! Our must-haves include: Where the Crawdads Sing - Delia Owens; The Mister - E L James, Shoe Dog - Phil Knight, War Doctor - David Nott; The Runaways - Fatima Bhutto; Losing Earth - Nathaniel Rich; Last Days in Old Europe - Richard Bassett; Milkman - Anna Burns
LISTEN
The sound of the sound of the waves lapping the shore is heavenly, but for those who love to fall asleep to music under the sun here are a few of our beach chill favourites: I dare you - The XX; Calvin Harris + friends - Heatstroke; Time on her side - Future Islands; Passionfruit - Drake; Sunset Love - Petit Biscuit; Take Me Away - Wild Belle; Drew Barrymore - SZA; West Coast - Lana Del Ray
