Fundu Lagoon, Pemba Island

Located on the south western side of Pemba Island (close to Zanzibar), and only accessible by boat, Fundu Lagoon is a stylish beach retreat where romance meets chic simplicity. Revered by dive enthusiasts and adored by beach and nature lovers, this ‘sand-between-your-toes’ idyll is discreetly hidden amidst the jungle-clad hills.

Sixteen tented bungalows are set under makuti (thatch) roofs and raised on wooden platforms with spectacular views of the ocean. While a few rooms, known as ‘Beachside’ are within a stone’s throw of the water, the remaining ‘Hillside’ (Ocean View) rooms catch the cool sea breeze from further up the hill. A relaxing sun deck leads to your secluded canvas ‘treehouse’ – complete with a kingsize bed, overhead fan and minibar. Pull back your tent flaps and spend lazy afternoons watching the sun glisten on the sea from the comfort of your bed. A generous supply of Fundu’s organically blended shampoo and gel infusions capture the unique identity of this soulful establishment.

Two of the rooms are Suites (the Beach Suite and Jungle Suite), both of which have their own private ‘chill-out’ deck and plunge pool, whilst another two are the Superior Suites – Fundu’s newest and ultimate room category – comprising a stylish bedroom and living area, an extensive outside deck and a much larger plunge pool.

Fundu is renowned for its rustic Robinson Crusoe charm which blends in with the beautiful natural surroundings. Sandy pathways lead past thatched sitting areas to the long palm-fringed beach which comes alive at low tide when streams of brightly dressed local women collect shells along the beach – transforming the coastline into a fashion parade of a very authentic nature!

The jewel of Pemba, neighbouring Mesali Island, with its pristine beach and superb snorkelling and diving, is always a highlight. Dhow sunset cruises, canoe safaris through the mangroves and sailing trips with the local fishermen can be arranged – and there is also a dive centre, a stunning infinity pool and a relaxing Spa which uses Fundu Lagoon’s own blended infusions. Most activities are included in your stay – but additional excursions such as diving, game-fishing and dolphin safaris can easily be arranged.

There are three bars – and meals are served in the open-sided, palm-thatched restaurant with views of the woods and sea.

Getting to Fundu is all part of the experience and involves a light aircraft flight from Zanzibar to Pemba’s Karume airport where you will be met by resort staff and transferred by road (approximately 35 minutes) to the Mkoani port near Chake Chake. Here you will hop into a waiting speedboat which will whisk you to the resort in the calm inlet of Wambaa in approximately 20 minutes.

PRICES Prices from £176 per person per night twin share for an Ocean View or Beachside room including all meals, local drinks, canoe safaris and a dhow sunset cruise. The flight from Zanzibar and road transfer are additional. Closed 16 April to 14 June. Flights from the UK from £510 (including £120 tax) with Kenya Airways