Che Che Vule

The house is a dream, roofed in traditional makuti palm fronds and very private, with a well-furnished central lounge area. Outside, you pass through flowing white cotton drapes to get to the garden, where there's an open-air dining and barbecue area, a plant-surrounded pool and a jetty that offers private access to the beach and a small overlooking the ocean. If you need a little peace, there are plenty of secluded areas to settle back with a book.

Four spacious bedrooms, three with en-suite bathrooms, are scrupulously clean and furnished in simple island style. The beds, made of chunky logs, are large and comfortable, with generous mosquito nets and lovely linen. Two top-floor suites and a family room are reached via a wooden staircase lined with conch shells. These rooms open on to large, thatch-roofed balconies that overlook the gardens and ocean. Downstairs is a light and pleasant double bedroom with garden views. The house is fully serviced.

Zanzibar has a lot to offer in terms of activities, and Matemwe with its prime location near Mnemba Atoll means that there is plenty to keep you busy. Walk along the beach at low tide to explore the intricacies of the shoreline, go diving or snorkelling (you can be picked up directly from the beach) or take a sunset dhow cruise around this corner of the island. Don't miss day trips to Jozani Forest, the spice tour or Stone Town.