Matemwe Retreat

Just a short walk north of the main lodge and right opposite the famous, Mnemba Atoll, the new Matemwe Retreat boasts 3 secluded and indulgent villas set on a stretch of private beach. The beauty of the Retreat’s enviable location is coupled with its unique architectural style which includes a wide range of ‘hand made’ details. Each villa houses an air-conditioned bedroom on the ground floor which opens on to an expansive terrace with a cocktail bar and dining areas. Your ensuite bathroom comes complete with double basins, an indoor shower and a large romantic bathtub overlooking the ocean. Bask on a sun lounger on your private roof terrace… and cool off in your plunge pool before retreating to the comfort of your shady deck.

The service is highly personalised – breakfast is laid-out on your verandah each morning – and the manager or chef make every effort to discuss your lunch and dinner preferences with you every day. Drinks are served in your villa or on the beach – and when in need of some pampering, you can always indulge in a relaxing massage in the comfort of your roof terrace, overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Lovingly built by local craftsmen using local materials where possible, the Retreat at Matemwe has been developed to provide a private sanctuary – laid-back and casually elegant. With stone walls, makuti (palm-thatch) roofs, coconut-wood furniture, solar water and floor matting made by Stone Town's Association of the Blind, it is clear that Matemwe's Swedish owners are staying true to their eco-principles.

Sail out to the local reef and discover the colourful underworld of the Mnemba Atoll - or simply snorkel straight from the beach. Kayaks are available to explore the crystal clear waters and visits to neighbouring villages can also be arranged.

The perfect honeymoon beach escape, Matemwe Retreat has set a new benchmark for 'island chic' in Zanzibar.

PRICES Prices from £182 per person per night twin share including all meals. Flights from the UK from £510 (including £120 tax) with Kenya Airways