Sava Dunes (previously known as Blue Footprints Lodge)  stands out in that it is one of the very few lodges in the popular tourist area of Inhambane where guests can enjoy a truly secluded and peaceful stay – that’s because it lies in a simply beautiful and isolated spot between the popular and more developed stretches of beach at Barra and Tofo which are known for their many bars, backpackers and self-catering lodges. As such it’s a great choice for honeymooners and couples looking for a deserted stretch of beach and a more romantic atmosphere.

This intimate lodge with its 5 stylish Ocean View Cottages & 1 Garden View Family Chalet, on admirably eco-principles (think all power being solar generated and water being sourced from a borehole). Much of the appeal of Sava Dunes boils down to one overriding factor – VIEWS, VIEWS, VIEWS! Whether you’re lying in your comfy bed, enjoying a shower, relaxing on the pool deck or having breakfast, Sava Dunes has been designed in such a way that the one thing that constantly catches your eye are the superb ocean views! (with dolphins and whales during their annual migration being common sights to be enjoyed)

The five spacious cottages are nestled in amongst the sand dunes overlooking the beach below and are connected by a wooden boardwalk leading from the main lodge building. The rooms are all standalone (around 10 metres gap between them) which means that they are nice and private. Inside they’re neatly designed with attractive open-plan bathrooms including a spacious shower - many guests comment favourably on the large and comfy bed draped by a romantic mosquito net. Being an eco-lodge powered by solar panels, there is no air-con (nor other power hungry mod-cons like hair dryers – you can recharge your various gadgets though) but the rooms are designed and positioned in such a way to catch the cooling sea breezes, so the lack of air-con isn’t an issue. To top things off you can enjoy the gorgeous 180 degree sea views whilst chilling with a book in the hammock on your veranda (or whilst enjoying your room’s outdoor shower!)

Whereas your room is all about privacy, the lodge’s public areas are a warm and welcoming place where you can relax in a lounger around the pool or one of the comfy sofas in the living room whilst chatting with fellow guests. There’s a very relaxed vibe here courtesy of the combination of chilled music, warm hospitality, hot sun and long, cold drinks! This area is also where you’re going to enjoy the lodge’s scrumptious breakfasts and delicious dinners – guests consistently rave about the quality of the food and the unfailingly friendly and personal service at the lodge! Dinner is a three-course affair with 2 choices of starter, 2 main course options to choose from beforehand and a home-made dessert – prepare yourself for seriously delicious steaks as well as the freshest seafood with seared tuna and peri-peri prawns just 2 of the highlights!

One of the real bonuses of staying at Sava Dunes is the seclusion it offers without being completely isolating. Choose to spend your days hanging around the lodge and it’ll almost feel like you're on your own private island – but if you do want to hop along the beach to somewhere busier like Barra or Tofo, you can take a lovely long walk along the deserted beach which stretches for miles (it’s about a 45 minute walk to Barra and double that to Tofo and you’re likely to encounter just ghost crabs and the odd fisherman along the way) or simply ask the lodge for a transfer. This gives you the chance to try out one of the beach bars or have lunch in one of the local restaurants. The Inhambane area is renowned for the quality of the scuba diving, and ocean safaris by boat in search of whale sharks, whales, mantas and dolphins are extremely popular too – this can all be easily arranged by the operators in Barra.

Chances are though that you’re likely to spend most of your time at the lodge. And who could possibly blame you? After all, with its gorgeous views over the stunning beach, lovely clean and bright rooms, warm and personal hosting, the atmosphere of peace and seclusion not to mention the great dining, a stay at Sava Dunes almost feels like finally cracking an invite to your best mate’s legendary beach house…only better!