Mnemba Island - Private Island off North-East Coast ZanzibarMnemba Island is privately owned and known to be one of the worlds most romantic beach hideaways, boasting stunning white coral sand beaches and some of the best dive sites in Africa. This ‘barefoot luxury’ lodge is located off the north-eastern coast of Zanzibar and can be reached by car through the tropical forests of mainland Zanzibar, followed by a short boat ride. The lodge is exquisite but modest, with rustic but truly elegant decor and the impeccable service that can be observed in all of the &Beyond properties in Tanzania. The islands rich forests are home to a variety of birds, butterflies and rare antelope, and its’ shores provide refuge for female sea turtles seeking to lay their eggs. Offshore, the surrounding sea and lagoon are inhabited by a wide range of exotic underwater species, including a resident pod of bottlenose dolphins. With only 12 bandas (Swahili for hut), this exclusive lodge provides a tropical private island escape, allowing guests to bask in the magnificent nature of this untouched paradise while having their every need tended to.
|
Highlights
|
The LodgeThe lodge is built around the concept of remaining in harmony with the surrounding eco-system and includes natural materials throughout, such as, white-washed stone and woven palm leaf walls, thatched roofs, and wood carved furniture. There is a stylish elegance within the main areas, which are comprised of an open-sided lounge and dining area, and small curio shop. The outstanding cuisine is a fusion of exotic spices, fresh seafood and local produce, offering the flexibility to cater to all tastes and dietary needs. Personal butler service ensures guests receive an exceptionally high standard of individually tailored service at all times. Guests are also treated to romantic candlelit dinners directly on the beach and private beach picnics upon arrangement.
|
AccommodationThe 12 spacious bandas, including 2 linked bandas that form a family suite, are thoughtfully positioned along the edge of the tropical forest overlooking the beach. They are rustic and open plan, constructed from local wood and hand woven palm leaves with mkeka floor matting throughout. The rooms provide large comfortable beds, wooden furniture, WIFI and a short path which leads to a generous wood panelled ensuite bathroom with twin wash basins and a rainfall shower. Outside, the bandas boast a spacious open-sided lounge with cozy cream sofas, wood carved table and chairs and a number of board games for guests to enjoy. Overall the rooms are simply but tastefully decorated with splashes of colour and adorned with intricately hand carved wooden furnishings, for which Zanzibar is famous. All bandas offer a high degree of seclusion and a private sand pathway to the beach.
|
Activities and AdventuresGuests can venture to a number of diving and snorkelling sites, including the house reef located just 20m off shore, accompanied by the skilled instructors from their onsite PADI dive center. Dhow boat cruises and fishing trips can be arranged, or guests can simply relax and enjoy a massage in the comfort of their banda, or stroll across the island observing diverse flora and fauna. Although Mnemba Island itself exudes tranquility, the islands’ close proximity to mainland Zanzibar means that it’s bio-diverse waters attract snorkelers and divers from other areas, however, they are not allowed on shore.
|