Vomo Island Resort, Fiji review: Euro beach club vibes with a rare resort food offering
Resort Review Excerpt – Shaney Hudson – Freelance Travel Writer – Traveller.com.au
CHECK-IN
Set on a 91-hectare private island, Vomo Island Resort features 28 resort villas, complemented by a selection of private residences, popular with multi-generational families and groups. Located between Yasawa and Mamanuca Island chains, it’s an easy, 15-minute helicopter ride from Nadi Airport, or a 45-minute boat transfer from Vuda Point Marina. Dominating the island is a sheer volcanic cliff, while at the opposite end of the island is Vomo Lailai or Little Vomo, a small uninhabited, volcanic rocky outcrop connected by a reef that is a haven for nesting birds; the optimal place to watch the sun go down.
THE LOOK
Refreshingly, Vomo takes a subtle and unobtrusive approach to its shoreline – the villas and main pool are set back from the beach and the natural landscape has been preserved, giving the impression that you’re entering an uncluttered private oasis. The reception, main dining area and pool are in the centre of the island, while facing Little Vomo is an adults-only area with an infinity pool, bar and oceanside restaurant. The adults-only section is defined not just by the lack of children, there’s also a distinctive European beach club vibe with daybeds and driftwood sculptures. The slick design is a sharp juxtaposition to the more relaxed tropical decor in the main dining area.
THE ROOM
I’m staying in a Beachfront Family Retreat designed for three adults or a family of four. The retreat has an outdoor bath and shower, with a large curtain you can pull across for privacy, as well as an outdoor seating area. Inside, villas are spacious and oversized; and filled with the little things that make a good room a great one. These include ample hooks, plugs and racks, a kettle for tea drinkers, freshly baked biscuits in a jar that are replenished every day, free laundry daily, and complimentary non-alcoholic drinks in the mini-bar. Pleasingly, toiletries are stored in refillable, environmentally friendly ceramic bottles. Typically, I smash one across the floor on my first night, which is quickly replaced.
FOOD + DRINK
It’s rare to find a resort in the South Pacific that nails every meal, but Vomo is the rare exception with each meal elevated by the detail, variety and quality. The added bonus is some produce is also grown on site. Highlights from the two restaurants include fresh sushi delivered to the island by local fisherman and the local avocado on toast with a hibiscus reduction at breakfast. I’m keen to come back for the traditional “lovo” held each week (a traditional Fijian feast cooked in an underground oven). Most impressive is the attention paid to those with food allergies: I’m presented with a personal printed menu at each meal catering to my dietary requirements – a godsend for someone used to living off grilled fish and salad at most resorts.
OUT + ABOUT
Vomo’s main attractions aren’t so much about stepping out as they are about climbing up or diving under. Landlubbers can hike to the top of the headland, take a medicinal plant tour, do a lap around the island during low tide or simply stroll to the luxury spa. However, Vomo’s best feature is the spectacular reef; excellent snorkelling is available right from the beach by boat (don’t miss snorkelling with reef sharks). Vomo also works with the Mamanuca Environment Society and the beach is a regular nesting site for turtles; on our visit we are able to see three young turtles being rehabilitated on site by staff.
