Beyond 5 Star, this private island (pronounced ‘Lau-tha-la’ by the way), is a resort for affluent castaways. The first guitar strum of the welcome song will miraculously melt any worries away. Owned by Dietrich Mateschitz, co-founder of energy drink company Red Bull, Laucala Island is nestled off the west coast of Vanua Levu in Fiji and accessible only by plane (either private or with the island’s aircraft).
In addition to picture postcard perfect beaches and array of swimming pool options the wealth of leisure diversions are staggering. Water activities include snorkelling and diving including a PADI accredited diving base.
One of the few truly top luxury island paradises that welcome children with open arms, with so many activities they’ll love.
Five exclusive restaurants and bars are overseen by Australian-born Chef, Anthony Healy offering a superb choice of Western, Asian and local cuisines, complemented by a wide selection of fine wines. Anthony has served as Executive Chef at Lizard Island Resort Australia, and worked at Hayman Island, La Cote Saint Jacques in France and Les Trois Garçons, London and recently I was lucky to meet Anthony and sample his exquisite canapés at a resent soiree hosted by Laucala.
The island also has a sustainable approach to cuisine with Laucala being an impressive 90% self-sustainable. Most of the produce featured on its menus are grown on the island or harvested from the surrounding sea. There’s a 97-hectare farm devoted to Wagyu and Limousin cattle, wild goats, quails, chickens, pigs, sheep and beehives while a hydroponic garden produces a vast array of exotic vegetables and also a herb garden. Fish are caught and served same day.
