Forodhani House

Built with sweeping 270° sea-views and in the traditional Swahili style, the house is all carved teak doors, hand-painted friezes and white washed walls. Decorated with traditional woven carpets and dark wood tables and chairs, the main lounge is a simple and elegant space, and Arabian arches frame stunning views of the ocean and sun-bleached terrace outside. There's also a private pool stretching out alongside the garden, bursting with palm trees, ylang ylang, frangipani and colourful bougainvillea.

Comfort and style is emphasized against a clean white palette in each of the five en-suite bedrooms. Spread along the multiple terraces of the house, each has exposed roof beams, beautiful woven carpets and four poster beds draped in light mosquito netting and lush cotton bedding. Glorious private terraces are perfect for admiring the daily life of the archipelago and long lazy siestas...

With the beach right on the door step, there are plenty of water based activities to keep everyone busy and sailing, kitesurfing, fishing and diving can easily be arranged. For a real treat, take out a traditional dhow and explore the surrounding islands or a couple of G&Ts at sunset. Across the waters, turtle nests and hatchlings can be spotted, as well as dolphins and whale sharks in season.