Matemwe Lodge
Matemwe is perched on an outcrop overlooking a shallow coral fringed lagoon on the quieter north-east coast of Zanzibar.
Here the tides govern the rhythm of the day. At high tide billowing fishing dhows stream across the lagoon; the lodge a daily stop for the fishermen who sell fresh crab, lobster and fish to Matemwe for lunches and dinners. At low tide the sea goes right out making the lagoon too shallow for swimming but it does reveal a fascinating reef which you can explore for hours.
Built from local materials and surrounded by beautiful lush gardens, each of the 12 spacious suites has a private veranda with a hammock and sofa and expansive views of the Indian Ocean with its constantly changing hues of blue. Here you can watch the fishermen head out every morning at dawn or listen to the songs of the village women as they harvest seaweed. The large bathrooms have both a deep bathtub and walk-in shower and all beds are enclosed by mosquito nets.
The open-air restaurant sits just above the sea and has a tranquil lounge area with beautiful views of the palm fringed beach and gently rocking dhows. Seafood is the specialty of the house, with all produce bought daily from the local markets, a delicious mix of African and European flavours. Matemwe has a multi-level swimming pool surrounded with lounge chairs overlooking the ocean a freshly mixed cocktails served at the poolside bar.
A number of activities and experiences are on offer including world class diving, kitesurfing, kayaking, sailing and fishing. As with many sea-based activities, the timing of some of these activities are governed by the tides and water levels.
+44 (0) 1608 638777
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