Matemwe Lodge

Positioned in the Michamvi Peninsula, the southeast corner of Zanzibar, Xanadu Villas offer an intimate retreat for those looking to luxuriate in style. The powder white sand of Bwejuu beach is also just moments from the property.

In total, there are seven individual villas surrounding a makuti-thatched central pool, complete with lush tropical gardens and palm trees. Uuniquely, each villa comes with its own private butler, reachable by radio who can assist with your every need. The domed villas also include a private plunge pool and decor that nods to Zanzibar’s Arab history and influence on this spice island. Expect copper trays and lamps, African art, comfy sofas and spacious circular rooms with high ceilings. Each villa is set just metres away from the beach and the warm currents of the Indian Ocean.

The property itself features a swimming pool and bar at its heart, which is lit up by lantern at night. It’s here you can cosy up on a two-person hammock and watch the stars. The on-site restaurant offers exceptional cuisine, specialising in seafood and local delicacies. The area around Michamvi Peninsula is well known for its windsurfing conditions  and watersports. So guests can experience kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and snorkelling with ease. However, for anyone looking to wind down, the on-site spa offers pampering treatments using locally sourced products.

Situated in the north of Zanzibar at Kendwa with direct access to a private beach, Zuri Zanzibar is a brand new luxurious seaside property. One of the things setting it apart from other resorts is the fact that its pristine beach isn’t tidal, so guests can swim all day in the stunning azure sea.

There are 55 stand-alone bungalows, suites and villas designed to blend seamlessly with the spectacularly landscaped spice gardens, offering plenty of private areas to fully relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Zuri, on the whole, focuses on sustainability, individuality and authenticity.

Three restaurants and four bars mean dining and socialising is varied. You can even spice things up with a beach barbecue, or opt for a more intimate dinner on the shore. And if you’re inspired by the delicious food served at Zuri, there are cooking classes available so you can recreate the experience once you get home. Guests can also make use of the wellness area, gym and yoga centre, or pamper themselves with relaxing treatments at the spa.

Zuri is perfectly placed for exploring Kendwa and Nungwi, and there are a variety of other restaurants within walking distance along the beach.

By the Indian Ocean’s clear turquoise waters on the north-west coast of Zanzibar, Kilindi Zanzibar sits amidst acres of lush, tropical gardens on a secluded powder-white sand beachfront.

15 domed pavilions, each with a private plunge pool, are intimate individual retreats mixing Arabic architecture and Scandinavian minimalism (after all, the property was original designed for Benny Andersson of ABBA).

Large glassless windows look out to the ocean and passing dhows, letting in a cool breeze and the sounds of weaver birds flitting through the greenery. They also feature extraordinary rainfall shower rooms and beds look up to the stars through stained-glass skylights.

In the main pavilion a large infinity pool sits next to the bar and an alfresco dining terrace. The beach also makes for an unforgettable setting for dinner. A dedicated personal butler will help arrange meals and organise excursions and activities around the island.