Fantasy fulfilled

Stay in a tree house in tropical Fiji

There is a magical little island in the Pacific I can almost guarantee you have never heard of. It has an idyllic resort, with tree houses in the jungle, overlooking sapphire waters. It is also home to an enormous secret cove, Horseshoe Bay, which is so beautiful it has been named one of the top 1000 places to see in the world.

If you are looking for a luxurious holiday away from the crowds, come with me on a journey to Fiji’s remote Matangi Private Island Resort.

The place

Getting to this slice of paradise is quite the adventure. Most of us have heard of Fiji’s main islands of Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. But let me introduce you to the country’s third-largest, Taveuni.

It is known as Fiji’s Garden Island because of its Jurassic-like hinterland, and it is a spectacular 90-minute flight from Nadi. Once there, you will be whisked from the airport to a boat, where you will be taken to a 97-hectare private island sitting off Taveuni.

Fiji has 332 islands – and you know right away you have picked a pretty special one to visit.

The island has been in family ownership since 1878, and it was farmed as a coconut plantation until 1986. It was then transformed into a spectacular retreat.

The space

There are just 12 rooms, with three different types to pick from. But take it from me, if you don’t book one of the tree houses, you will regret it when you arrive. These magnificent rooms are surrounded by lush forest, and have a grand four-poster bed, sun deck, Jacuzzi and outdoor ‘‘lava rock’’ shower.

You also have ocean views from your deck.

The facilities

The island has everything that you would expect from a luxury hotel, such as an impressive pool and luxury loungers dotted among the coconut trees.

You can kayak and paddleboard, but the standout highlight is the overwater spa, where you

can indulge in a couple’s massage before having a drink out on the deck.

The food

The hotel has an excellent Vale-Ni-Kana restaurant next to the beach, emphasising local delicacies, such as fresh fish, coconut and tapioca. Menus include lobster, tuna and Fijian creme brulee.

Worth stepping out for

The island is home to Horseshoe Bay, a magnificent cove named in the popular book, 1000 Places to See Before You Die. The bay is reached by boat, and a couple can book the entire place to themselves.

You will be dropped off with a picnic at the main beach, which is home to a hut and hammocks. From there explore and snorkel.

The highlight

The tree houses and service. Both are some of the best you will find in the Pacific.

The lowlight

Don’t make the mistake we did and only stay for

one night. It is quite a trip to get there, so make sure to enjoy a few days.

Tip

If your budget is under pressure, book one night in the tree house, and more in the cheaper bures. The resort offers a number of specials for longer stays.

The verdict

This is the perfect place to celebrate something significant such as a honeymoon or anniversary.

The writer travelled to Fiji before the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, courtesy of Tourism Fiji and Fiji Airways. This story was produced as a part of an editorial partnership with Tourism Fiji.