I woke to a thundering stormy day in Santo full of excitement for the next step of my Vanuatu travels. I was meant to travel to Ratua Island Resort and Spa – a place I’d heard so much about.
Ratua is a private island a half hour boat ride South of Santo – making it a truly secluded resort. I’d seen photos of some of their incredible accommodation, 200-year-old Indonesian wood huts that looked like they’d simply sprung from the ground beneath them on the idyllic Ratua Island. It was my must-visit island on my trip to Vanuatu, and I was counting down the days until I would arrive!
The sky was filled with black cloud when we set on our boat journey – ominous that a thunderstorm wouldn’t be far behind. Through the veil of rain as we approached, I could make out a clutch of the incredible wooden villas I’d read so much about – as well as some gorgeous buildings that from afar looked like they were simply floating on water.
We were shown to our room, and despite all the reading I had done about the accommodation – nothing could quite prepare me for how truly breathtaking it is. A soft white linen fabric mosquito net framed our king-sized bed, which overlooked the stunning turquoise sea that lay before it. I knew I would have no troubles getting to sleep while I was here, with the rhythmic sounds of the water lapping on our own private beach. We even had our own suspended platform above the ocean with two sunbeds, so we could relax and unwind a mere couple of steps away from our bedroom.
The bathroom was adjacent in its own separate wooden hut – perfect for that extra sense of privacy for when you rinse the coconut oil off you after a relaxing massage at the overwater spa – something that’s bound to enhance your holiday relaxation ten fold!
As the island is so untouched, the reef that was literally right at our doorstep was like something I’d never seen before. The bright colours of coral, thousands of fish of every size and colour as well as the occasional HUGE turtle – it was a truly surreal experience.
You can see the reefs by snorkelling, canoeing, stand up paddle boarding or on a banana boat – there’s something for everyone.
For those looking for something slightly more adventurous, there were options to explore a nearby blue hole, go on a fishing trip guided by expert local fishermen, or to go riding around the island on one of the numerous horses that leisurely roam on the ranch. The standout activity for me was swimming with the horses – something completely unique to Ratua!
Ratua Island Resort and Spa is definitely a must-see destination in Vanuatu. It’s perfect for honeymooners wanting their own little slice of paradise, but is similarly perfect for a whole family getaway to celebrate any occasion. You’ll never be short on things to do on Ratua, that is if you even manage to break yourself away from your stunning villa!
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