The global luxury hotel brand, the Banyan Tree Group, is coming to Southern Africa – more specifically, to Mozambique.
The group has announced plans to open a new ultra-luxury resort in the second quarter of 2022, on the private island of Ilha Caldeira, 11km off the coast of Mozambique. According to a press release, this will be the only internationally branded five-star resort in Mozambique, and it is setting out to be the ideal island destination for honeymooners, multi-generational families, and everyone in between.
The hotel group is to partner with Jack Truter, a South African modern-day ‘Robinson Crusoe’, who has been given provisional rights by the government to build the resort on the island, bringing it the successful Banyan Tree model. Forty private pool villas with uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean will allow guests to connect with unexplored lush tropical surroundings and white sandy beaches.
This previously uninhabited island is in the Primeiras and Segundas Archipelago, which is Africa’s largest marine reserve as well as home to Mozambique’s intact living corals, green and hawksbill sea turtles. True to Banyan Tree’s commitment to the environment, the resort will be 100% solar-powered, and all water on the island is desalinated.
The group says Banyan Tree Ilha Caldeira will be committed to this ethos of sustainability and connection as is evident in its three pillars – environment, community, and responsibility – ensuring that the resort operates in an ethical manner regarding biodiversity of the area, the needs of local cultures, and their leadership role in the region. Guests can expect a locally infused experience in a most exceptional sanctuary-like setting.
Activities will range from whale watching and kayaking to scuba diving and exploring islands within the archipelago, including exploration of the wreck of the Dutch MS Brastagi, which sank in 1947.
Dining choices will be diverse and, in true Banyan Tree style, there will be a focus on creating seasonal dishes, regionally sourced and locally curated, plus a well-being menu. The lounge and cocktail bar will serve up classic drinks with a local twist while also offering tantalising Petiscos tasters.
Not only will there be a Banyan Tree Spa but also access to a beauty salon, a yoga pavilion as well as a fitness and wellness centre.
As it is a family destination, the resort will offer a kids’ club too. Guests can also enjoy the Marine Conservation Centre, which includes a diving school.
