Elite Traveler HRS 2017-2018

CONTACT Christoph Ganster, managing director, c.ganster@laucala.com, +679 888 0077

STAY Hilltop Estate Size 12,000 sq ft Nightly rate $45,000

Each of the 25 villas showcases a different aspect of the island. While 11 Plantation Villas lie within a coconut grove alongside a beach, four Plateau Villas sit on the slopes of Nawi Mountain, seven Seagrass Villas line the beach, the Peninsula Villa is set into a cliff and the Overwater Villa is positioned in an emerald lagoon. The Hilltop Estate, though, is set on the island’s highest point, affording views across the forested landscape and out to sea. Comprising two spacious residences, a panoramic pool-landscape and exclusive services such as a private cook, chauffeur and nanny, this estate provides unrivaled privacy. RELAX Combining Fijian wellness traditions and using organic ingredients from the island, the spa here embraces the Laucala spirit. Looking towards the ocean, the spa complex and its serene garden comprise relaxation areas, outdoor tubs, wet rooms with steam facilities, and manicure and pedicure rooms. Local herbs, spices, flowers and fruits make up four signature scents, which are used in each treatment, from hot-stone therapy to body scrubs and mineral-crystal therapy. Guests can choose a scent they like or create their own essential oil. Signature treatment The Laucala Bombo massage uses Fijian techniques in which the therapist uses their knees and feet as well as hands and elbows to regain rhythm through the body. EXPLORE Both the environment and local culture are celebrated here through the island’s integration of a cultural village, on-land activities such as horseback riding and golf, and water sports enabling you to explore above the water as well as beneath its surface. The coral reef here teems with marine life, so it’s worth setting out with a snorkel or on a dive trip from Laucala’s Padi-certified dive center. DINE Laucala offers a spectrum of culinary experiences. Plantation House hosts gastronomic meals with wine pairing, Seagrass Lounge and Restaurant provides alfresco Asian and Fijian cuisine, the Beach Bar hosts barbecues and the Pool Bar serves Mediterranean cuisine by the lagoon-style swimming pool. The Rock Lounge offers Asian- inspired small plates and cocktails with a view over Seagrass Bay. AWARDS Australasia’s Leading Private Island, World Luxury Hotel Awards, 2017 Gold List, Condé Nast Traveler US, 2017 Top Honeymoon Resort in South Pacific, Brides Magazine US, 2017

A lagoon pool on the paradise island

Laucala Island FIJI, SOUTH PACIFIC

Situated in the Vanua Levu archipelago of northern Fiji, Laucala is one of three small islands that lie off the coast of Taveuni. Privately owned, the island is home to just 25 Fijian-style villas which sit amid coconut trees and on the volcanic slopes leading down to the island’s white sand shores. Sustainability is of utmost importance here, with pockets of coconut plantations, organic farmland and gardens amid the swaths of verdant rainforest, providing the restaurant and spa with fresh produce, coconut oil and orchids. Within this setting of unspoiled natural beauty, the resort emanates luxury through its stylish yet distinctly Fijian villas, with infinity-edge pools, collection of inviting restaurants and bars, and the sublime island spa.

Laucala Island Vanua Levu Group Fiji laucala.com

Channel James Bond by making use of the island’s DeepFlight Super Falcon submarine and fleet of boats

The stunning bathroom view