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 Tyvola’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.…
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!
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 fella and I hope to come again soon! By the way the The views and the proximity to town and the beach were amazing as well… Just added to how incredible the visit was!
Tavola Villa is truly indescribable. From the moment you step foot through the stunning wood doors, you are greeted with the most unreal view of the ocean. Morning sunrises in the hammocks to cocktails by the infinity pool, taking a walk on the lush grounds to find fruits from the many fruit trees, outdoor showers, massages and a private chef all made this trip so memorable and one-of-a-kind. Jack, Usenia, Mere and Chris all help make the stay absolutely perfect and are such wonderful people. The house is not only stunning but immaculately clean and filled with any amenity you could ever need. If you get the chance to, you absolutely must stay at Tavola. I can’t wait to return one day!
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!
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!…
This is our second visit to Tavola, with COVID still surging around the world we managed to return at the special time of the New Year, joining our host Monica and her family, who were visiting from USA. 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!…
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 geat base for diving a JMC resort or for travelling further afield. We were introduced to OceanVentues 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 snorkelling 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 or anniversary trip so special.…
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 infinity pool is steps away. I enjoyed swimming in the pool in the late afternoon or early evening, lounging in a hammock and spending many late evenings on the trampoline marvelling 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. …
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 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.…
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