Relais & Chateaux Adds Vanuatu's Ratua Private Island

Ratua Private Island is the first Relais & Chateaux property in the South Pacific and joins the ranks of an enviable list chosen after a rigorous selection process involving inspections of more than 100 establishments. Each and every one, whether historic or contemporary, located in the city or the countryside, is unique in its charm, elegance, excellence of service, and quality of hospitality. These small properties with an average of 30 rooms are often family enterprises, and they all bear the mark of the soul of the innkeeper which impresses on them their own character and personality. Ratua Island is no exception.

In Europe and the US, Relais & Châteaux has a long tradition of being known as the best way to locate the most outstanding cuisine and the most charming and unique hotels when travelling, from converted castles to snow-decked chalets, overwater bungalows and plush beach villas. This phenomenon is growing among Australians and New Zealanders as Relais makes its mark in this part of the world. There are now 13 restaurant and hotel members in the Australasia-South Pacific region, including Ratua Island in Vanuatu.

Ratua Island belongs to a French nature-lover who fell in love with the area when sailing around the Pacific and made a personal commitment to preserve the island and support the local community. Located 30 minutes by boat from Espiritu Santo or a 1hr direct flight from Port Vila to the island’s private runway, guests can enjoy peace and quiet, space, privacy and pure romance in luxurious Pacific-style accommodation. There are 146 acres to explore by electric buggy, bicycle, trek, horseback or boat. Most of the amenities are centrally located just a short walk from the Yacht Club, including an overwater Spa. Three villages offer 15 individual villas handcrafted from 200-year-old teak wood with Indo-Oceania inspiration. Each are uniquely furnished and accommodate two to four guests who can enjoy their own beach and perfect privacy.

The foundation of Ratua’s dining experience is the organic Kitchen Garden, where the culinary staff sources organic fruits and vegetables to supplement the island’s fresh meat and poultry and daily fish from local anglers. A wine cave houses the best of Australia and New Zealand wines – not to mention Champagne and exclusive French wine from the owner’s vineyard.

Ratua’s weather is ideal for easy exploration of surrounding lagoons, beaches, and reefs – where sea tortoises, bright coral gardens and colourful fish abound. Beyond Ratua’s shores, guests can discover the infinite wealth of the area’s exceptional nature and unique local culture through a range of discovery tours – from active volcanoes, waterfalls and caves, to sailing, blue hole swimming, wreck diving, deep sea fishing and Vanuatu cultural excursions.

To read more about the hotel, please see Luxury Travel Magazine's Hotel Profile for: Ratua Private Island