Banana House

Cool, Swahili-white walls and ornate archways shade a selection of hammocks and day beds that are perfect for lounging away an afternoon, the ocean shimmering in the distance. At the Wellness Centre itself, there's an airy yoga hall on the ground floor and a rooftop spa for manicures, scrubs and blissful massages. Cool off between sessions in the saltwater pool, or top up your tan on a sun-lounger amongst the jasmine, and at the end of the day, sit down to dinner under the stars - all food is homemade, delicious and 100% local.

The original Banana House has three bedrooms on the ground floor, sharing two bathrooms, and can be interlinked to make a family suite. On the first floor, four en-suite bedrooms with showers lead off from the terrace, and the top floor consists entirely of a penthouse suite, with a huge romantic double bedroom, and a private dining area with sun terrace and loungers. Five similar rooms are next door in the yoga retreat. Book one room, a floor, or all of them for your own private retreat.

Banana House offers twice daily yoga sessions and regular in-house courses on meditation and wellness by experienced therapists and instructors. The house is two minutes’ walk to the lively seafront and markets, and about five minutes from the stunning Shela Beach and Peponi Hotel. Dhow cruises, sundowner trips, snorkelling, and tours of the historic Lamu Town and further afield can be arranged, and once you've got your zen back, try a festive beach party or a night sleeping under the stars on Manda Island for something different.