THE RESIDENCE ZANZIBAR

An exclusive Tanzanian hideaway

Bathed by the vast Indian Ocean, with its white sand beaches, eclectic culture and gorgeous natural setting, the archipelago of Zanzibar, off the east coast of Africa, is the perfect place to get away from it all. And what better place to stay than The Residence Zanzibar - a complex of 66 luxury villas combining the ultimate in modern comfort with plenty of local character? Join us in exploring its myriad delights.

By Marine Pasquier

Make yourself at home

The Residence Zanzibar is set in 32 hectares of verdant wooded grounds, in which five-star luxury blends smoothly with unspoilt natural beauty. Built around the concept of spacious, elegantly decorated private villas that reflect the island’s African, Omani and European heritage, the complex is romantic as well as opulent. Wickerwork combines with palm leaves and teak to create a warm, friendly atmosphere. The villas are equipped to the highest modern standards, offering everything you need to make your stay truly relaxing, including a private pool with a restful view of the tropical garden, which can be visited on foot or by bicycle. Surrounded by greenery and crystal-clear waters, the resort is deliberately designed to feel like a place outside of time, where it’s easy to let go and disconnect. Alternatively, you can find out more about Zanzibar’s abundant flora and fauna at the resort’s educational farm and bird refuge a short walk or cycle-ride away. Flavours from around the world

Food-wise, heady aromas and flavours make for a thrilling gastronomic experience. The Dining Room provides an introduction to Zanzibari cuisine, combining fresh ingredients with meat to create light, mouthwatering Omani and Africaninfluenced dishes that reflect the local culture. For more adventurous diners, The Pavilion Restaurant offers a taste journey from the Mediterranean to the Middle East, incorporating flavours from all the countries in between. Set in a garden a few minutes from the hotel, The Pavilion Restaurant’s decor is a blend of contemporary with touches of Middle Eastern culture and traditional music, making a meal there a delight for all the senses. The Residence Zanzibar is also an ideal venue for meetings and private functions, which can be held in the sophisticated ambience of the library, which boasts a picturesque candlelit terrace as well as an elegantly decor and modern technical facilities.

Secrets of beauty and well-being

For a moment of total relaxation, head for the Spa, the hotel’s star attraction. Equipped with no fewer than six spacious treatment pavilions, a sauna and a steam room, all nestling in 2 hectares of tree-shaded gardens that blend seamlessly into the natural landscape, this haven of calm transports you into a world of total well-being. The Spa offers a wide range of beauty procedures to rejuvenate your mind and body, devised in collaboration with the UK brand ila (meaning “Mother Earth” in Sanskrit) and based on organic plants and minerals known for their healing powers.

Total immersion

Whether you’re looking for a quiet getaway for two or a fun holiday in the sun for all the family, Zanzibar offers a dazzling choice of activities, ensuring that everyone enjoys their island experience to the full. From the jetty, you can sign up for all kinds of water sports: underwater diving, dhow sailing or kayaking on the sparking water, kitesurfing, big game fishing and so on. For those who just want to laze around, the infinity pool is the perfect place.

The name Zanzibar may conjure up exotic images of sunsoaked beaches and turquoise water, but the archipelago also offers ocean safaris, a walking tour of island spice and herb farms, ancient buildings and rambles through tropical forests that are home to giant tortoises and red colobus monkeys. With its astonishing multicultural atmosphere, rustic charm and hospitable culture, Zanzibar is a unique, unforgettable experience.

THE RESIDENCE ZANZIBAR BY CENIZARO MCHAMGAMLE, KIZIMKAZI ZANZIBAR, TANZANIA FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, EMAIL INFO-ZANZIBAR@THERESIDENCE.COM OR SEE @THERESIDENCEZANZIBAR