Ratua Private Island

Once we’ve said that Ratua Private Island is, in fact, a private island — and in Vanuatu, no less — then we’ve said about ninety per cent of what needs to be said. But we’ll continue on, for the benefit of those who haven’t already skipped ahead to “book now.” Somehow, it gets better.

Ratua’s fifteen villas aren’t merely traditionally styled, they’re authentic 200-year-old Indonesian homes, transported to Vanuatu and rebuilt for the benefit of Ratua’s guests, with electricity added, bathrooms modernized and everything else left mercifully as-is. None is more than a few yards from the beach, and for parties up to ten there’s a “village” of five villas clustered together. Space is plentiful, and however rustic they may look, they’re well appointed.

Suffice it to say the design never distracts from the natural setting. Here the landscape and wildlife are given the right of way, and divers will find the sea life is unparalleled. Horseback tours and fishing expeditions can be arranged, as can guided nature walks and even a shipwreck dive — more or less standard tropical island fare, but at Ratua most of the activities are enriched by an emphasis on the culture and traditions of Vanuatu. It’s the sort of thing that could easily go wrong in less capable hands, but here comes off quite well, lending an extra dimension to a beach holiday.

The hotel’s main lodge building is named the Yacht Club, but thankfully it’s not quite what it sounds like. The restaurant, bar and lounge radiate around a central deck, which forms the social center of the resort. Meanwhile the beach barbecue is an alternative dining venue, and an experience that’s not to be missed, especially on nights when the island band is playing. And last but by no means least is the spa, which must be seen to be believed — its twin treatment rooms stand on stilts, overwater style, for the most immersive experience you can have without actually being immersed.

Text courtesy of Tablet Hotels