NESTLED among lush tropical gardens and mountainous terrains along the Coral Coast lies an ideal, simple and hidden destination isolated enough to give you a peaceful getaway.
Just a two-hour drive from Nadi and 30 minutes from Pacific Harbour, Crusoe’s Retreat is a holiday destination which is sure to give you a warm Fijian experience.
The resort is situated about 5km off from the Queens highway in Serua, which is a 15 minutes’ drive along a narrow gravel road leading to the resort.
But what truly amazes one travelling to Crusoe’s is the pristine scenic view overlooking azure Coral Coast waters and the green bush area, even before you get to the resort.
While the establishment has been around for decades, the resort features 28 Fijian-inspired bure complementing the rustic setting along a palm-fringed sandy secluded beach.
According to the resort’s general manager Adi Narayan, the isolated location from the highway, made them a unique resort, away from the hustle and bustle.
“This is something you don’t find in resorts. Our location is unique yet simple to give you a true Fijian experience,” he said.
“This is what they need, a peaceful quiet holiday where the only noise you get to often hear is the sounds of the ocean.”
Set on a 10-acre piece of land, the resort is neighbour to Namaqumaqua Village, a walking distance availing guests the opportunity to visit and tour the villages and experience first-hand the life in an iTaukei village setting.
“The villagers also offer at their own little eatery real Fijian cuisine where guests can experience the Fijian cuisine,” Mr Narayan said.
The village also features a small school where guests are able to meet the local children as well as participate in their Sunday services.
“Here, you enjoy the sound of the waves, the mind is soothed and purified with the breath of fresh air,” he said.
And if you’re someone that seeks a pure, fun yet adventure-filled holiday, this just might be a suitable with its complimentary activities and scenic sites.
“We have our kava ceremonies too on Fridays which is something unique and jells with our Fijian night on Fridays,” Mr Narayan said.
“We have theme nights, Thursday is our lovo night, Sunday barbecue with music and Mongolian nights and this is just some of the things we do on a different level, but adding a personal touch.”
And whether you are visiting for a romantic Fiji Honeymoon or just a good old Fijian adventure, the resort also offers water sport activities and an ideal view for a Fijian beach wedding or honeymoon.
“Our market is not the younger generation, such as the age bracket in their mid-20s, we mostly target the 30 to 40-year-old bracket and the honeymooners,” Mr Narayan said.
“Recently, we had an 80th wedding anniversary here, and that was something special for us.”
Crusoe’s Retreat, owned by New Zealand businessman Colin Neal, was recently awarded the Trip Advisor 2017 Travellers’ Choice, identified as one of the top bargain hotels along the Coral Coast.
“The success here is mainly attributed to the staff that has enabled us to get this award and credit goes to the staff,” he said.
“I am honoured to receive the award on behalf of the staff and the management, which goes to show that we are doing what is required to promote not only Crusoe’s Retreat, but Fijian tourism as a whole.”
The resort, Mr Narayan said, was also proud of its 40 staff, most of who are from the neighbouring village.
“We have our village next door where most of our staff come from, and that is the second thing about this resort, is the staff, who will surely give our guests a Fijian experience,” he said.
The resort also features two bars, a spa, restaurant, and a unique foot-shaped swimming pool.
