Welcome home, to your private villa and tropical paradise that reignites the soul.
Take a moment to read these special memories shared by our thoughtful guests.
Read Reviews for Fiji 5 Star Villas on TripAdvisor Hotels. Ready to visit us? Reserve your holiday at Tavola Villa.
Hannah
Hosting my retreat at Tavola was an unforgettable experience—pure magic in every way. The villa, nestled in a lush tropical jungle, is a serene paradise where every detail exudes luxury. From the breathtaking views to the elegant architecture, sumptuous bedding and spa-like bathroom, Tavola offers a perfect blend of comfort and beauty.
Monica and her incredible team ensured every aspect of our stay was flawless. She worked with me to create a custom itinerary that highlighted the best of Savusavu’s culture and natural beauty.
Her thoughtful attention to detail, from selecting private chefs to accommodating dietary needs, made every meal an exquisite experience. The presentation, ambiance, and flavors were nothing short of perfection, and the large group accommodations were impeccable.
The warmth and hospitality of Monica, Jack, Russi, Mere, and Lia were extraordinary. They treated us like family, effortlessly managing our requests and pivoting plans with grace. The Kava ceremony on our first evening was a magical introduction to Fiji, setting the tone for the week.
Tavola elevated our retreat to new heights. The memories of this serene paradise and the care we received will stay with us forever. We cannot wait to return!
Coire
Lulu
Juniper
Deanna
Natalie
Tara
Sarah
My husband and I stayed in this gorgeous property for five nights. We enjoyed every minute of the beautiful views, and infinity, pool, and open concept. Jack, the property assistant, took us on a fishing tour, a sandbar, and a local village. The snorkeling was exceptional. People amazing! I would recommend this to anyone.
Robyn
We enjoyed the most wonderful week with our three adult children and their partners at Tavola Villa. The Villa is very comfortable with the most beautiful view of the water, a perfect place to watch the world go by. Jack, Rusi, Mere and Lia looked after us so well with Jack taking the kids out fishing and snorkelling and Mere and Lia quietly cleaning up after us.
The town of Savusavu is an easy 5.5km walk, full of friendly people, restaurants and supermarkets. Be mindful that when returning to the Villa with a load of groceries, you will need a ride in a 4WD as the hill up to the Villa is a challenge. Nawi Island, a stone's throw from Savusavu is worth a visit also, which is a small boat ride (3 mins if that) which has a great restaurant/bar overlooking the marina which we enjoyed.
At the end of the 8 days, we all felt so relaxed and recharged and thank the Tavola team for making it so special for us.
Isaac
Absolutely stunning location, and service to match! This was the high point of our trip -just an incredibly serene getaway and an amazingly comfortable stay. Do yourself a favor and book this villa for as long as you can, you won't regret it!
Glenn
Tavola is a hidden gem in Savusavu that we are so glad we discovered. The property is expansive and absolutely beautiful and the view of the Savusavu Bay is spectacular. We thoroughly enjoyed relaxing around the pool and the peace and quiet of this magical place. The Tavola team are so lovely and go out of their way to ensure you have a wonderful stay. Highly recommend a holiday at Tavola.
Kit
I mean honestly - there are few places better on earth or people more glorious than Monica. If this is the one trip you book for the year - DO IT. Tavola, their amazing staff, the unbelievable private chef dinners, the excursions, the sea views from every room, the service, the hammocks. I've never felt more cared for or inspired in my life. Savusavu is the island to visit, and no one does it better than the team at Tavola. If you're looking for peace, quiet, elegance and epic awe, this is the place for you. Also, the helicopter pad at the top of the property is made for a glorious music event - calling that in for this space as well!
Julia
Tavola is the perfect spot to relax, adventure, and find inspiration. We woke each morning to sweeping ocean views and enjoyed the most gorgeous sunsets from the pool with a drink in hand. My personal favorite was being able to grab snorkeling gear that Tavola has on property, and make the quick walk to empty beaches for epic snorkeling. Around the corner I would walk to the Jean-Michel Cousteau Dive Shop for some of the most incredible scuba diving. The Tavola family makes you feel at home in the most beautiful and pristine environment. I couldn't recommend it enough!
Marco
The property is unbelievable set on a hill overlooking the ocean and the Savusavu Bay. To access the ocean is a beautiful and short walk through the jungle. The coral and fish right in front of the property are the most amazing I’ve ever seen snorkeling. Fresh fruit on the property including pineapples, papayas, passionfruit and mangos are picked daily for you to enjoy. The pool and suites having amazing views as well. I loved how remote and real Savusavu is - it is not touristy at all. Everyone is so nice and you always feel safe. Definitely get off of the main island and visit Vanua Levu and stay at Tavola.
Patricia
We spent three weeks in Tavola in June 2023 and we only regret we did not stay much longer. It is simply superb. The location, the house, the staff... everything was perfect. I will start mentioning Savusavu, a lovely and very vivid fijian village. Although quite little, it has everything you need, with a remarkable variety of nice restaurants/bars. The inhabitants are extremely friendly just like all Fijians.
The Tavola family is absolutely gorgeus. Extremely friendly, polite and caring. Always doing their best to give you what you want and what you need being. Monica was always so caring and an attentive host from the distance. We always felt extremely cared. They are the highlight of Tavola, even though the house is simply amazing.
We went three weeks because we had in mind tele-working a bit, but it was quite hard. I have never been in such a relaxing place. There were always better things to do like laying on a hammock. The views at the deck are amazing at any time, sea views during the day or star gazing at night.
The kids really enjoyed kayaking to split rock for snorkeling, everyday we saw something different.
We had the best time ever.
Barbara
Outstanding stay and highly recommend. Five star experience in every way. The home is beautiful and extraordinary and we couldn't get enough of the view. Chef was excellent, amazing food and presentation. Staff was fantastic and helpful and epitome of being kind which is so representative of Fiji culture. Jack was excellent with managing the property and everything for us. You must do the fishing trip they offer - amazing, amazing, amazing.
Bob
The property was great and accommodated our family of ten very well for over 2 weeks. There were large decks with adjoining swimming pool that provided lots of spaces for sitting out and enjoying the sun. From the decks there were fantastic views during the day of Savusavu Bay and at night of the stars. The interior of the main house also had lots of space for cooking, eating and relaxing. Our host, Monica, was very helpful in arranging tours, finding restaurants, car rentals and, on our last night, procuring a band for entertainment. Her loyal staff was always ready to help in any way they could. Our family which included our grandkids, children and their spouses felt that Tavola and Vanua Levu provided the best holiday ever.
Jean
Just returned from 7 glorious days at Tavola Villa. This “casually elegant” paradise overlooking Savusavu Bay is an oasis of tranquility surrounded by a host of nearby active adventures.
Picked up by Monica from the small one-room airport, we were whisked directly to a massage that she had suggested and planned—a perfect way to get the kinks out from the plane flight and to start a fabulous holiday! There are several options if you enjoy snorkeling or diving. Monica and her team can arrange a trip to Nateway Bay, the largest (and largely untouched) bay in the South Pacific and home to pods of spinner dolphins. You can drive to nearby coastal areas. Or you can drop into the warm ocean not 5 minutes from the resort using the Tavola’s kayaks and snorkel gear. I did both of the latter and was soon exploring large expanses of coral reef and walls with brightly colored fish. There’s also a beautiful waterfall hike where after a relatively leisurely trek, you can soak any remaining tensions away in the waterhole below it. If you are still wanting more water adventures, head to the Salt Lake for easy floating, and to check out the nearby mangroves. The Tavola team can also arrange fishing directly from Tavola with the Villa’s own Captain Jack or with other nearby charters. The Savusavu waters are full of Walu, Yellowfin Tuna, Mahi-Mahi and other species.
In terms of dining, there are several options to fit your desires and daily activity plan. I loved the included fresh breakfast every morning, indulging in homemade yogurt and granola, eggs and bacon, avocado toast [from the biggest avocado I have ever seen fresh from the Tavola garden!], recently-picked fruit and French-pressed coffee. For lunch and dinner, you can eat out in town [about a 10-minute drive], use the Tavola kitchen to whip up your own, or have a private-chef cooked meal. I enjoyed several meals from local restaurants and shops and, as Monica was in residence, dined on a number of delectable dinners she whipped up for us! And if you love to cook but hate to do dishes—you are in luck—Tavola’s team does all the kitchen clean-up!
The Tavola team is incredibly warm and thoughtful. Always with a friendly smile and helping hand, they keep all the rooms and shared spaces clean and ready to enjoy, including the infinity pool, sports gear and 8 acres of beautiful grounds. They are also always ready to assist in any way to make your stay as enjoyable as it could be.
With the two double-room bures and one single-room [each with amazing views!!!], Tavola is a perfect Fijian escape for up to 10 people who want their own private resort! I think it will be perfect for bringing my adult sons and girlfriends for a family holiday…or my group of friends who love to snorkel and dive while living in luxury! Can’t wait to go back!
Paula
Monica and staff have created an amazing and magical private paradise on the hillside of Savasavu overlooking the pristine waters of Savusavu Bay. The Tavola Villa has a modern flare yet warm and inviting with island wood, flora and fauna. Open the windows for a picturesque view and ocean breeze. You are picked up from the small airport and taken to the Villa. Transportation /driver is provided to get you around the island. Greeted with a glass of bubbly, the stress of life melted away. We settled in and knew the next 6 days would be incredible. Having the entire Villa and property to ourselves spoiled us. The food was delicious and prepared with such love. We loved the outdoor shower. Massages can be arranged as well. If you love to SCUBA dive, less than 0.5 mile is Jean Michel Cousteau Dive Shop which provides world class service and diving. We very much enjoyed our float through the mangrove river into Salt Lake and treated with a picnic lunch. You can do as little or as much as you want. One of our most relaxing things to do was hang out at the vanishing edge of the pool with a cocktail in hand taking in the ocean views. Monica can help you plan the perfect get-a-way. As a business woman, I also thought this property would be a great escape for a leadership team for annual strategic planning and vision creation. Bula, Bula!
Katie
We stayed 5 nights for our honeymoon and it was better than we even hoped! We hung out with the kingfishers and mynas while relaxing in the hammocks and looking out to the ocean. This was the private, secluded, and relaxing retreat we had hoped for! And, if we ever felt like being more active, we had many options available: hiking and ocean kayaking were our favorite activities. The staff are also extremely nice.
Fatima
I spent 5 nights at Tavola and I had an immensely relaxing and rejuvenating stay at this very special villa in Savusavu. The villa is incredibly beautiful with so many stunning vantage points over the bay. I stayed in the master bedroom and enjoyed the outdoor shower, the luxurious bathtub, falling asleep with the fans spinning overhead and waking up with views of the sunrise over the beautiful bay.
All of the activities were fantastic - kayaking, boating and snorkelling with Jack; the massages at the villa; the private chef; diving at the Cousteau resort; the jungle hikes and waterfall swims; relaxing in the hammocks; swimming the pool. It was so rejuvenating to spend time in the abundance of nature in and around Tavola.
Monica was a gracious and generous host, who helped with all aspects of booking my trip and activities, and made the process so easy, seamless and personalised. I really appreciate the individualised approach to my stay at the villa, it made the experience very special. It was truly such a treat. The staff were delightful and the meals were delicious, and I am so appreciative for such a wonderful stay.
James
We were fortunate enough to experience Tavola for my 50th birthday - and it was truly an indulgence in Paradise. Monica was amazing with communicating before we arrived and her staff ensured our 5 nights were memorable. Jack's insight into local sights and culture was exceptional and the snorkeling trip to Split Rock was a highlight. The property has everything you want/need and the sunset from the helipad never failed to amaze us all. Thanks a million for your hospitality Tavola - we will never forget the experience!
Kel
Originally planned as five nights at Tavola Villa ended up as a full week! Magic! Each change in plans made our stay more perfect. The facility and grounds beg you to stay longer and relax more. The staff is so welcoming we wanted to stay longer with our new 'family'.
We loved to watch the weather come in over Savusavu Bay from the vantage point of our hammocks. At night we marveled at the glittering stars of the southern night sky, and each dawn the view over the bay was breathtaking.
One can hardly imagine a place like this to stop and “recharge” your mind and soul.
Thank you.
Rebecca
We didn’t know what to expect of our first trip to Fiji, but what we found at Tavola blew any paradise dreams out of the water. The villa is opulently understated—beautifully designed, posh, comfortable, with every convenience.
The property surrounds an infinity pool that is the perfect size and shape for relaxation, reflection, and rejuvenation. The pool overlooks a gigantic tree that feels like it’s full of wisdom, and beyond that, water stretches nearly to the horizon, ringed by layers of mountains. It’s the most idyllic view I’ve ever seen, and we spent time admiring it every day, especially as the sun set over the mountain peaks.
The staff were wonderful, kind and welcoming and full of laughter. They kept us so well, and maintained the villa impeccably. It’s not easy to keep things clean in the jungle, especially with little toads hopping around (they poop a lot), and ants eager to finish any leftovers, but they manage it and make it seem effortless.
We took advantage of many of Tavola’s add-ons, enjoying delicious massages on-site, babysitters for a few hours of privacy from our kiddo, and a stocked wine cellar. We indulged in ordering Feast Boxes, scrumptious meals prepared by an expert chef and delivered fresh into the fridge. Chef Amy kept us reveling in local but familiar flavors, fresh produce and herbs, intricate sauces and savory snacks.
The whole trip, from tip to toe, was heaven. We will be back, and I can’t recommend anything more highly.
Daniel
More than a mere vacation at another fancy resort, Tavola is a sanctuary of tranquility, augmented by the luxurious comforts and care of an amazing staff. If you really want to "get away from it all" in the spirit of mindfulness, rejuvenation, and profound shifting of perspective -- amidst the edenic uplift of this more remote part of the Fiji islands -- this is the only place to go!
Grace
My friends and I stayed at this villa for a girls trip and it was absolutely fantastic! It was most of our first times in Fiji and as you can imagine it’s a little scary coming to a new country for vacation but Monica made sure that everything was set up perfectly for us. The food, Covid tests, and every other combination that you can think of! I absolutely would recommend staring at this villa and I hope to come again soon! By the way the views and the proximity to town and the beach were amazing as well… Just added to how incredible the visit was!
Meghan
Carrie
Tavola Villa is an absolute dream come true! Waking up to the sound of the wind whistling through the bamboo shoots and enjoying a perfect view of Savusavu Bay is unparalleled. We began each day sprawled out in the cozy hammocks watching the sunrise with a fresh coffee, and capped off each night with a dip in the stunning infinity pool while watching the sunset. From the snorkeling tours to the kayaking trips to the locally sourced fresh meals waiting in the fridge for us, Tavola met and exceeded all of our desires!
We want to extend a big vinaka to the incredible Tavola staff! Thank you for all of your assistance throughout our stay, we hope to be back very soon!
Becky and Brent
After two years without a vacation and locked in Australia, cancelled Christmas plans to be with family and general burnout/COVID-malaise, stakes were extremely high when we booked a last-minute New Year retreat to Tavola.
The property far surpassed expectations, from the beautifully-presented double bure that provided a private sitting-room retreat as well as a comfy, spacious bedroom (plenty of storage) and nicely appointed bathroom, to the common areas and infinity pool of the main villa, this place has style.
But beyond the facilities, what really blew us away was Monica's hospitality, which her adult children (also visiting for the holidays) have clearly inherited. Having missed our own family Christmas, their effortless adoption of us into theirs was an unexpected and appreciated bonus. Simultaneously feeling totally at home yet pampered at a luxury retreat, our experience as guests was excellent. Monica's seemingly-relaxed preparation of three delicious meals a day, on our timetable and showcasing the freshest local produce, meant we slipped into obscene levels of relaxation, on par with the property's resident furry friends.
Whilst extreme laziness and the Omicron outbreak meant we didn't explore too far afield, there were plenty of activities on offer for visitors to Tavola and we can't wait to come back. Vinaka vakalevu!
Julie and David
Tavola is set within lush gardens, elevated from the road, a peaceful and private retreat with amazing views of Savusavu Bay, where you can become bewitched watching the ever changing weather across the bay. As soon as we arrived we felt at peace, welcomed and at home. Monica was once again the perfect host. The home cooking is wholesome and delicious and Monica makes the most of the abundance of locally sourced ingredients.
Tavola is perfectly located and there is plenty to do, even if you decide to stay within the beautiful grounds of the villa. The comfortable lounge area has plenty of books and DVD's, just in case the weather takes a turn! Outside there are comfortable hammocks to lounge in, a sparkling infinity pool to cool down in, and well-stocked gardens to saunter through. It's a pleasure to climb to the highest point of the property and sip a sundowner whilst overlooking the villa and the bay.
Just over the road it's possible to step into the sea and snorkel. There are some amazing corals and fishes to see, right there on your doorstep! Monica will even lend you snorkeling gear if you didn't pack your own.
A little further afield you will find Savusavu town, with plenty of cafes and restaurants, the harbour, the botanic gardens, an artisan chocolate factory, waterfalls, hot springs... there's definitely no shortage of things to do.
Big thanks again to Monica and family!
Julie and David
A visit to Fiji's second island is a must if you plan to visit Fiji. Savusavu is a laid back town on Savusavu Bay, which hosts the popular marina for "yachties" from around the world.
To make your visit to Savusavu complete, we recommend Tavola Villas, which is run by Monica and her Fijian team, and not forgetting Jaco and Luna the dogs and Prahna the cat.
The house is architecturally designed using local timbers and the location gets the best out of the cooling trade winds. The property also has an infinity pool, an outdoor dining area and hammocks to chill in and read.
We have lived in Fiji for some time and we can honestly say the food on offer only uses the freshest local ingredients. The food is freshly prepared with care and provides a perfect balance.
Nothing was too much trouble and we were made to feel part of the family and within a few minutes we felt we belonged. Monica and the team will do whatever they can to meet their guests requirements and can provide transport if asked.
This is a great base for diving a JMC resort or for traveling further afield. We were introduced to OceanVentures Fiji on the largest bay in the South Pacific, at Natewa Bay, which is about 40 minutes drive. Sara and Matthew offered a fantastic day and directed us to some of the best snorkeling in Fiji in the most unspoilt area you can ever imagine. Please see our review of this trip.
Thank you to Monica and the team for making our anniversary trip so special.
Eden
As Covid19 shut down the world, I found myself in Fiji. For 5 weeks I stayed at Tavola Villa. The villa has an amazing view overlooking Savusavu Bay. The property is on Vanua Levu, the second largest island in Fiji. The villa is incredible, and all the rooms are inviting and facing the sunset.
I stayed in one of the guest bungalows for 3 weeks. It’s cozy and comfortable with one side being a bedroom and the other side being a private lounge. I loved waking up as the morning light brightened. And sometimes you wake up and the first thing you see is a rainbow, which is magical.
I stayed in the master suite for 2 weeks. It’s on the main level, so the verandah is just out your door, and the private infinity pool is steps away. I enjoyed swimming in the private pool in the late afternoon or early evening, lounging in a hammock and spending many late evenings on the trampoline marveling at the stars.
While at Tavola, I became a certified diver with Cousteau Resort, which is just down the road. Once certified, I went to several dive sites, all spectacular. I saw turtles, sharks, mantas, groupers, soft corals, clown fish, eels, cabbage coral and barracudas. And I even ventured into caves, with my GoPro in one hand and my flashlight in the other. The diving in Vanua Levu is not to be missed!
In addition to diving, I regularly went snorkeling and kayaking. It’s a quick walk through the jungle canopy to get to the beach at the edge of the property. I really enjoyed taking a kayak out, tethering it to a buoy and then snorkeling from that spot. On my last swim, I invited Jaco and Luna, the villa dogs to join me. I so enjoyed their company and certainly wish I could take them home!
Monica is an amazing host and very bright. She takes time to speak with the guests and is helpful in 1001 different ways.
I am so happy that I could stay at Tavola, especially in this unique time of a global pandemic. I traveled throughout Fiji, and Tavola is prettier than Fiji itself. It’s an incredibly special private villa nestled in the heart of an abundant Pacific Island paradise. Tavola feels like home, and it’s truly hard to leave.
Kit
I had the greatest pleasure (and honor) to stay with Monica and her dear family for a full 10 days and emerged quite literally a new version of myself, more focused on the present moment and all its glory. The property is literally perfect - aesthetically pleasing from every vantage point, brilliantly architected and expertly layered with the details that make a house a home. In lieu of writing a novel about my stay (which I may well do!), here are the highlights and what's not to be missed:
-- Enjoy a massage on the back deck of your bure before slipping into the private infinity pool at sunset
-- Savor each morsel of the meals. Monica's a brilliant chef who expertly marries local ingredients and spices to make meals that leave you feeling vibrant.
-- Spend time in every hammock. Bring extra books.
-- Meditate on your back porch.
-- See the sunset or sunrise from the top of the property - it's stunning
-- Enjoy the ocean view from your shower
-- Get out and explore! Go on a jungle trek, see a waterfall, visit the secret castaway beach, and check out the town which couldn't be a more well-preserved enclave of local charm. Monica and team are an encyclopedia of where to explore.
-- Pay attention to the music that surrounds you. Even this detail is expertly crafted.
Zach
The perfect place to get away from it all. For my not nearly long enough stay, I was treated like family by the owner and staff, and was able to forget about everything and relax. There were also plenty of activities to fill the time we get like moving. The snorkeling and fishing were fantastic. From the gorgeous views to the delicious fresh food, it was bliss. I can’t recommend it enough. If you do go, make sure to take advantage of the delicious passion fruit and golden turmeric tea.
Sonia
Tavola was the perfect place to holiday with our four teenage boys. Monica and her team made our stay so special. It was such a treat to stay in such beautiful surroundings - incredible views across the water and tranquil gardens. The views were breath taking from the master bedroom and it was so nice to wake each morning looking across the ocean. The private infinity pool was well used by the whole family but particularly the boys who spent many hours swimming and just hanging out with each other. I can not talk enough about Monica and her wonderful team. They were all so helpful, warm and friendly. Monica was a great source of knowledge as to what activities and sights we could see and experience. There were so many things that you could do at Tavola, you were spoiled for choice - kayaking, snorkeling, early morning fishing, or just relaxing. Monica prepared our wonderful meals which was such a treat. We were so thankful that we could spend our family holiday at Tavola with Monica and her team. It was the right blend of fun and relaxation in a very luxurious and incredible setting. We hope to return again some day.
Andre
Tavola Villa is an intimate experience like no other. Located in beautiful Savusavu Bay, the private property provides no shortage of breathtaking, panoramic views, with an absolute favorite of mine being the incredible sunsets. The Fiji private pool villa is elegantly designed and constructed with Vesi (an indigenous Fijian timber); the spaces feel open, inviting, and bright.
Without a doubt the best part of my stay was the intimate, family experience. From the moment I arrived, I felt like a family member, not a guest. From delicious meals eaten together, to explorations out to town and beyond, I've never felt so at home while travelling. One of my favorite memories was going out to get my PADI Open Water Diving certification at nearby Jean-Michel Cousteau resort. The Tavola team generously helped me organize the process, and went above and beyond to ensure that my experience was nothing short of amazing, even joining me for a dive!
As a resort, Tavola provides guests with luxury, comfort, and a chance to enjoy the beautiful stillness of island life, well worth the money. However, the intimate, family experience they've managed to cultivate is priceless: you won't find a place like this anywhere else.
Jody
'A Tavola' means 'family table', and what we experienced was the most magnificent setting for our 'family table' - beyond what we could have ever dreamed or imagined. We came to Tavola desperate to restore, reset, talk, dream and listen; and that is exactly what we did! The property is stunningly beautiful, and is designed in a way which allows for an effortless flow of the days and nights to unfold around you. Whether we were sitting for hours at night around the outdoor dining table, or talking over breakfast, as it seemlessly slipped into lunch, around the kitchen table - we felt the peace, tranquility and soul of Tavola engulf us. We would often jump out of our seats to try and capture a rainbow or sunset or the way the light danced on the water in Savusavu Bay. Every room, every space at Tavola, exemplified the same feeling of rest and ease, that wrapped around us like a comforting blanket and housed memories that will stay with us for a lifetime. The rhythm of our days at Tavola, was what dreams are made of! We sat, we dined, we swam in the breathtaking infinity pool, we stood on top of the mountain, we snorkelled, kayaked, chased waterfalls, visited villages, laid in hammocks, slept, went out on the boat, laughed, talked, cried, sang, and laughed some more. Our time at Tavola has left an indelible mark on us all, and we are richer for the time spent there. This is truly one of those places, that you can't quite believe you have had the honor and privilege of being part of. The Tavola family became our family, and like a sweet, summer breeze, they added a dimension to our stay that has to be experienced to understand the profound beauty.
Gary and Georgette
My trip was a wonderful experience. Monica Laurence, the resort owner, is a gracious hostess. We had our own bungalow in her boutique hotel called Tavola. She oversees and/or makes every meal herself, with local foods (including fruits from the property such as papaya, banana, mango, passion fruit, etc.). The staff were friendly and efficient. All in all, the accommodations and food were excellent. Max capacity at Tavola is about 12-15 people, so it is an intimate and very much unique cultural experience which large resorts do not provide. The resort provided activities, which included kayaking, snorkeling, hiking to some special waterfalls, visiting a cocoa and micro agriculture farm, and bocce ball.
Simon
Our host Monica was accommodating, knowledgable, and a total pleasure. The entire property is beautifully maintained and the rooms are updated with Fijian style decor and architecture.. Not to mention they spotlessly clean! The indoor/outdoor living areas and hammock spots are perfect for relaxing in. If you don't feel like relaxing, the pool, nearby boat house, and beach offer plenty of adventure and fun. Tavola was an incredible place to stay. The staff are friendly and genuinely warm people. The location was just far enough from civilization for that perfect “Getaway” feel. At only $6.60 FJD (Approximately $3 USD) for a cab into town, and a 30 minute kayak ride to the Cousteau Resort, the location was still very convenient for the essentials. I would definitely recommend Tavola to anyone looking to stay near Savusavu!
Jessie
Tavola Villa was a gorgeous location and home to spend 10 days with close family and friends to celebrate my birthday. The property is picturesque with amazing views of Savusavu Bay, privately enclosed by luscious green vegetation and beautiful gardens. We had four young children and six adults with plenty of separate living and sleeping spaces for down time and personal privacy.
Unlike a resort, we had the benefit of being able to relax freely around the home (as we would in our own) and enjoy each other's company without the distraction of other guests, as well as the stunning infinity pool, views, lounge areas and gardens - that a higher end resort would offer. With a mix of tasty local and western menus, no meal or dessert was ever the same. Delicious, light and healthy. And if you're keen... a morning or afternoon fishing trip with Captain Jack will see you contribute a Tuna or Skip Jack to your evening meal. Thanks, Jack, for your determination to find us the right fishing spot – it sure was worth it!
Monica and her staff were very attentive and willing to assist in any matter to help make our holiday as fun, enjoyable and care-free as possible, even helping with the kids when the adults wanted some 'adult time' or a day trip out.
I was delighted and very appreciative of the effort that went into the preparations for my birthday celebration(s). Monica and her team organised a fun afternoon treasure hunt across the expansive property that kids, and adults alike enjoyed, followed by a traditional lovo dinner that evening. I was gifted with a very precious and handmade lei and head-piece, made by Ima. A very special and thoughtful gift that I will treasure - thank you Ima and the team once again!
We can highly recommend this property to large groups seeking a unique setting, privacy and the benefit of a close proximity to town, villages, waterfalls, diving and the beach! The perfect location for an amazing get-a-way! Thank you Monica, Viv, Ashia, Ima, Mere, Tristian and Jack!
Nicole
If you need somewhere to unplug, relax and simply enjoy the surroundings, this place is it. When I first walked through the doors of Tavola Villa, I could not believe the scenery. The views here are breathtaking and off the beaten track, this place allows you to literally sit back, relax and unwind.
Fishing, diving, waterfalls and hiking the countryside are also on your doorstep and a visit to the local markets is a must. I'm already looking forward to my return, and to tell you the truth, I am craving the gorgeous chocolate cake served poolside in the afternoon. This time I might like to have it in a shady hammock as I indulge in a great new book! I loved my evening strolls at sunset, the perfect way to close a peaceful day before enjoying dinner with a chilled wine.
Looking forward to making this an annual pilgrimage!
Henry
Tavola Villa is the most relaxed yet fun time I’ve had on a holiday! Which is why we chose Tavola Villa again. You know you’ve arrived in paradise when you see the beautiful gardens, stunning views with breathtaking sunsets. Fishing with Captain Jack didn’t disappoint with a mixed bag of Yellowfin Tuna, GT’s and Wahloo which was excellently prepared and cooked by our chef. The abundance of tropical fruits on the property made breakfast fresh and healthy getting you ready for the day. Whether it’s chilling by the pool overlooking Savusavu Bay watching the yachts go by, a trip to local waterfalls including a short hike with a refreshing swim, or experiencing the Savusavu markets and town.
We went out snorkelling off the beach area with kayaks from the boatshed which was great fun and to the lighthouse in the longboat where we saw reef sharks and lots of fish and coral. As soon as I leave Tavola, I find myself already planning my return! I simply feel great when I’m there.
Tyson
Early in the New Year I was lucky to stay at Tavola Villa with some great friends.
Savusavu is like old Fiji with a very relaxed pace so with no schedule we got up on our own time. We started our day with a morning smoothie made with freshly picked passionfruit, bananas and papaya from the tropical gardens that surround the villas. The outdoor dining table by the pool is a great spot for breakfast and you get an amazing 180 degree view of Savusavu Bay. You could sit there for hours watching local dive and fishing boats, the ferry from Viti Levu, and in summer a number of visiting yachts use Savusavu Bay as safe harbour as well.
When things got a bit hot we would jump in the pool to cool off, if we wanted more to do we could grab a couple of Kayaks from Tavola's boatshed to explore the bay and go for a snorkel. We were also taken out on the Villa's longboat for a fishing trip to the outer reef. Plenty of other activities are around Savusavu as well, such as waterfalls to visit and some local shopping but we didn't stray too far from the villa as it was a short trip.
The main lounge is stunning but we were enjoying the outdoors too much to spend much time in there. The villas are really comfortable with a large bi-folding door that opens almost the whole length of the wall giving it a great indoor/outdoor feel. The beds are super comfortable and the bathroom has the nice open Fiji feel with a massive rainfall style shower.
The staff were all so friendly and we are looking forward to booking another trip.
Ben
Thrilled to experience the beauty, tranquility and adventures of Savusavu in Fiji earlier this month staying at the gorgeous Tavola Villa.
There my son and I experienced so many magical memories in our relaxing two week vacation and we are already keen to return again.
Perched up on the side of a hill, Tavola Villa is surrounded by manicured gardens, palm trees, tropical fruit trees, interesting birds and a spectacular 180 degree view over the Savusavu Bay with a palm tree lined beach easily accessible below out the front of the property.
In addition to the views from our quiet bedrooms, our favourite place to take it all in was on the deck in front of the lounge and dining areas surrounding the fabulous infinity pool. The infinity pool was perfectly positioned for a quick dunk to cool off after reading in the hammock or taking a leisurely swim while looking out over the trees, the colourful tropical plants and the scenic bay below.
Whether eating a sumptuous breakfast on the deck with hand made jams and juices, or dining next to the pool at night when the sky would turn on the most breathtaking sunsets, we were often surprised and delighted with the magic of Fiji in this stunning location.
To the credit of Tavola Villa owners and staff, we were also pleasantly surprised with the exotic flavours and variety of food, often including freshly picked passionfruit, bananas, pineapples and papaya straight off the trees on the property.
The property overlooks the most beautiful bay in the middle of a mountainous and lush green tropical island, together with amazing coral reefs that were calling out to us daily to come and enjoy snorkelling, kayaking or optionally diving, as just a few of the fun water sports on offer.
In addition to the range of water sports, we also chose to explore a bit more of the island one day with a fun hike to a waterfall where my son and I spent the afternoon relaxing and swimming in the freshwater pool in the middle of a tropical jungle.
Each day we were excited to start our day in the tropical paradise of Tavola Villa with thanks also to the owners and attentive staff who were very friendly and took care of our every need. They appeared at just the right time to discuss our next delicious meal, or help plan our next local adventure with a boatshed full of water sports equipment and a powerboat too to take us out to our coral reef adventures.
Not sure I need to mention this but the coral reefs in Fiji and the abundant marine life needs to be seen to be believed!
Thank you for an incredibly relaxing holiday filled with amazing experiences and priceless memories!
Until our next visit to paradise in Savusavu, Fiji ...
Ben
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