Matemwe Retreat is located on the northern coast of Zanzibar, on a beautiful stretch of private beach opposite the Mnemba Atoll. It shares this location with its sister camp, the rather more simple Matemwe Bungalows, but the two are far enough apart to ensure a good deal of privacy.
With only four luxury beach villas, Matemwe is among the most intimate, private lodges on Zanzibar. There are no public areas at the lodge at all. Instead, the villas are entirely self-contained, each with its own lounge, roof terrace, private garden, verandah, plunge pool, and dining area. Those looking for a more sociable atmosphere can always wander down to the restaurant and pool at nearby Matemwe Bungalows (a 10 minute walk), but Matemwe Retreat has really been designed with those desiring total privacy in mind.
Matemwe Retreat has a superb location, next to a beautiful beach and excellent reefs, making it a good spot for water sports and diving. Matemwe Retreat also provides an in-room spa service: you can be pampered with a massage or beauty treatment in the comfort of your room, overlooking the Indian Ocean. Private dinners, served in your own villa garden or on the rooftop terrace, are a delight.
Accommodation
Matemwe Retreat consists of four separate beachside villas, each with its own unique character and personal touches. The ground floor of each villa (150m² including verandahs) features a private cocktail bar, an air-conditioned bedroom, a bathroom with double basins, shower, and large romantic bathtub overlooking the Indian Ocean. Each villa also boasts a romantic private roof terrace with plunge pool, and complete with sun and shade decks.
Dining
Breakfast is served on the private verandah of your room. The chef will visit you each day to discuss your lunch and dinner preferences, to let you know of the catch of the day, and to ask where you want to dine, privately in your room or with others at Matemwe's main lodge.
There's no bar. Drinks are served either in your room or on the beach. All drinks are included with the exception of premium brands.
Facilities
- Daily maid and private butler service
- Spa treatments
- Swimming pool at nearby Matemwe Bungalows
Activities
- Diving
- Snorkelling right from the beach
- Kayaking
- Reef walks
- Dhow sailing trips
- Village visits
- Biking
- Spice tour
- Stone Town day tour
Child Policy
Children under the age of 12 are not accepted at Matemwe Retreat. Nearby Matemwe Bungalows has a more relaxed child policy.
Environmental Policy
The Retreat is built, and largely staffed by, local labourers and craftsmen. Almost all of the materials used in its construction are locally sourced, including the stone, coconut wood and thatch used in the villas. The furnishings and furniture, too, have been sourced locally.
