Colina Verde
Set on the remote Machangulo Peninsula in southern Mozambique Colina Verde is a luxury private residence offering a wonderful escape from modern day life in a beautiful, secluded part of Africa. Family owned and run by husband and wife Lucy Campbell Jones and Graham Pollard, the house was built as a family home and is situated on the top of a remote sand dune with commanding views over the coastal dune forest, ocean, mangrove and inland freshwater lakes. It is a perfect spot for a group of friends or an extended family. Children of all ages are welcome although the open pool and heights may make it more appropriate for children of eight years and above.
Accommodation & Facilities
The villa is taken on an exclusive basis and can accommodate up to 18 guests. Each of the seven en-suite bedrooms is individually decorated and all have views over the ocean. Some have open fireplaces, others come with copper baths and all are beautifully furnished with comfortable beds and cozy seating areas. There are two rooms on the north wing and five rooms on the south wing. The Hippo Room has two double beds downstairs and two single beds upstairs and the Monkey Room has one double bed downstairs and bunk beds upstairs. Both are ideal for families and situated in the south wing. All the beds have mosquito nets and although the double beds cannot be made into twin beds, two single duvets can be provided to avoid any night time blanket wars.
At the heart of the house is a heated swimming pool which is quite deep but has steps and a hot tub and there is a shaded bar area. There is a games room with pool table, a gym, tennis court and massage room. The outside decks have fabulous 360 degree views, perfect for an early evening drink or morning coffee. The house is fully staffed with a chef and experienced host couple.
Eating & Sleeping
All meals tend to be served family style with platters down the centre of the table but as an exclusive use property this is flexible and can be adjusted to the group’s needs. Very big parties tend to have a group lunch and then slightly earlier evening meals for children so they eat before their parents. The chef provides healthy selections and adds in children’s favourites such as homemade fish fingers, chicken strips, homemade pizzas and pastas.
There is no formal childcare provision although the house staff can keep an eye on children depending on the number of children and their ages. Separate accommodation is available for nannies if families would like to bring their own.
Wildlife & Activities
Among activities on offer are sand boarding, snorkelling, picnics, visits to the local village and into the Maputo Special Reserve where you can spot crocodiles, hippos and plentiful birdlife. Deep sea and salt water fly fishing can be arranged at an extra cost as can a variety of spa treatments.
Specifically for children …
As a family destination all activities are suitable for children from five years upwards. On offer is:
• Snorkelling
• Trips to the elephant reserve
• Kayaking
• Fat bikes
• Fishing
• Board games
• Ping pong
• Pool table
• Gym
There are life jackets for all sizes as well as goggles and booties for the little ones to snorkel. There is Wifi although it is limited to one area of the house and it is for parents to decide if the children are allowed the password.