The Retreat - what to expect.
Hidden Cove Eco Retreat is ; small, waterfront, child free eco-luxury tented resort for couples. It has been designed with privacy, comfort and luxury in mind on sustainable principles and is located on Espiritu Santo, the largest island in Vanuatu.
LOCATION
- The island of Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu is three hours flight from Brisbane and 50 minutes flight from Port Vila. Air Vanuatu has direct flights every Tuesday. The island is not over commercialised, very lush and beautiful and is famous for its Blue Holes, SS President Coolidge dive wreck and Champagne Beach. Activities include swimming, snorkeling, diving, fishing, hiking and canyoning, horseriding, bikeriding, kayaking to name a few.
- Hidden Cove is located 15 kilometers from Luganville on the Champagn Coast looking out towards the islands of Aese and Marvea.
PRIVACY
- Unsigned and not open to the public
- The Luxury tents are set within walled gardens on large decks, well spaced apart.
- Only two tents are on 6 hectares of waterfront land ( third being built)
- No children allowed
- The on site managers and staff, while on hand to provide round the clock personalised service and security, are discreet and respectful of your privacy at all times.
WATERFRONT
- The tents are positioned on the rocky coastline of East coast of Santo on the water.
- There is direct access to the water from both tents
- Several hidden coves ( small sandy inlets ) are on the property
- Beautiful coral reefs are directly in front of the accommodation
- The predominant sound at the accommodation is the sound of the sea
- April - September is the dry and windy season. October to March, Cyclone season, the sea is flat, quiet and clear.
ECO- LUXURY
Definition “Excellence in hospitality service and authentic experience combined with environmental and social sustainability”.
Luxury is used in the sense of the original Latin word “Luxus”- beautiful or precious that would stimulate admiration and appreciation (rather than the luxury of gold plated taps)
The luxury ambiance and facilities include;
o French inspired furnishings
o Romantic queen four poster bed
o High quality mattress, pillows and bed linens and towels
o Plunge pool
o French tub for two
o Marble appointed bathroom
o Ceiling fans
o DVD and book library
o Large private decks
o Organic body wash, shampoo
Our sustainability practices include;
o We run on solar power
No air conditioning -Fans and positioning of tents under trees with sea breezes cool the tents
o Body wash, shampoos, conditioner, bath salts are made from local organic, cold pressed coconut oil
o Cleaning products are made from tea tree oil, vinegar, pure coconut soap
o Linen is not changed every day but towells are aired in the sun daily and replaced on a need basis.
o Water is pumped to high holding tanks and gravity fed (no noisy pumps)
o Washing powder (organic) is made on site
o Plant based insect spray is used
o We do not use electric kettles, toasters but provide alternatives.
o Eco toilet – normal looking flushing toilet
o LED and sensor lighting
o Re-cycle and compost to minimise land fill waste
o Use of renewable building materials sourced locally wherever possible – bamboo, coffee stick, coral rock.
For the most part you will not notice any difference from traditional " on the grid" accommodation.
FOOD
We do not have a restaurant – you will experience personised food service within your villa
- Breakfast is included in the tariff and is based on fresh fruit, homemade Greek yoghurt, coconut water based smoothie, and pastry – different every day and served at a time that suits you.
- We cater for Celiac, Lactose intolerant, Vegan, Vegetarian, Paleo
- Restaurant quality food is served in the privacy of your villa
- Private chef service available and pre made room service meals available
- BBQ in each tent
- Kitchenette for your convenience if you wish to self-cater
- All food is sourced from local, fresh ingredients. We make our own pasta, sauces, sorbets, ice creams, yoghurt, jams, soft cheeses, breakfast friands
SERVICES INCLUDE;
We are committed to personalise your holiday experience to suit your needs.
- Airport transfers
- Shopping tour
- Daily housekeeping
- Washing service
- In house chef service by appointment
- Masseur by appointment – Rose is a local lady who uses only organic coconut oil.
- Preprogrammed telephone with tours, restaurants, taxis for your use
- Use of electric bikes
- Use of Ocean kayaks
- Use of snorkeling equipment
- Assistance for booking tours, restaurant etc.
- 24 hour on site manager for security and assistance
LUXURY TENTS
Follow link above for details and videos of our luxury tents.
GENERAL
- Malaria is not a problem in Luganville and surrounds - no need to take Malaria profilactics unless intending to visit outer islands.
- Money can easily be changed on arrival at an ATM
We look forward to demonstrating that a luxury holiday experience can be compatible with environmental sustainability and thank you for choosing a holiday experience that does not negatively impact the host country.