Although just across the bay from Mozambique’s capital, Santa Maria remains a remote rural area. We’ll take you on a comfortable boat trip across Maputo Bay to our doorstep on the beach. Alternatively, you can drive your 4×4 vehicle through the Maputo Special Reserve.

From the beach, our ramp leads up through the indigenous garden into the heart of our double-storey home. A large, open-plan lounge with comfortable sofas and a full self-catering kitchen make up the spacious living area, from which a service counter and tall glass sliders open out onto a large, covered deck with breath-taking views of the sea.

From there, steps lead down to a sparkling pool and deck beneath an ancient Milkwood tree. The wind-protected deck at the back of the house has a peaceful view of the garden, pond and dune forest.

There are four spacious, light and airy bedrooms – all with magnificent sea views, and beautifully styled in cool, summery hues.

Downstairs, the Kingfisher (king-size bed) and Bush Baby (twin single beds and a queen-size bed) rooms lead off the lounge area, with a full bathroom next to them. The guest toilet is beside the lounge, underneath the stairs.

Upstairs, you’ll find an office area with twin beds adjoining the Fish Eagle master bedroom en suite, with a bath, shower, toilet and bidet.