RAS NUNGWI

On the northernmost peninsula of Zanzibar Island, Ras Nungwi Beach Hotel overlooks a sparkling expanse of iridescent Indian Ocean. The lush gardens drop down onto one of the finest and most unspoilt beaches on the island, which in turn is fringed by a wide and thriving coral reef. Infused with the laid-back, exotic yet ultimately natural spirit of Zanzibar, this is the place to relax and enjoy all that this extraordinary part of the world has to offer.

THE LODGE

The hotel makes use of ancient local building traditions to create a contemporary architectural space from natural materials. All main structures are open-air, makuti-thatched ceilings arch high overhead, allowing all to luxuriate in the space, light and atmosphere that this unique location affords.

ACCOMMODATIONS

All 32 rooms are tastefully furnished with hand-crafted four poster beds and indigenous decor, and all have balconies, air conditioning, ceiling fans, hair-dryers, electronic safes, and en-suite facilities with deluxe bathroom amenities. Mosquito nets over all beds ensure a peaceful night's sleep. Lodge rooms have a garden view and both types of chalet room have a sea view.

CUISINE

Where better to enjoy gourmet evenings under the stars tahn on the fabled island of spice. The chefs relish in the task of preparing elegant and appetising menus from an abundance of local ingredients, including fresh coconut and aromatic spices, the finest array of seafood and plenty of heavenly tropical fruit. An impressive wine list is available to complement the dinner of your choosing.

BEACH

The unspoilt beach at Ras Nungwi is arguably the best on Zanzibar, and the nearby coral reef yields a beautiful lagoon. Low tides reveal sparkling white coral sand bars, and rock pools teeming with marine life. The main beach area allows easy access to the hotel's swimming pool, beach bar, watersports center and masseuse. Beach attendants are on hand to provide you with towels, sun-loungers and refreshments from the bar.

DIVING

Zanzibar's best diving can be enjoyed at the northern tip of the island. Ras Nungwi's professional Gold Palm 5 Star PADI dive operation caters to all experience levels. Full equipment and tank-filling facilities are available in-house. The diving offers an overwhelming number of amazing tropical fish at the lagoon around Ras Nungwi. The majestic whale shark migrates past the resort twice a year and humpback whales can be seen breaching right outside the hotel. Dolphins are permanent residents, playfully accompanying guests on boat trips to the dive sites. Depths of most reefs range from 12 meters to 40 meters with a year-round water temperature of 27 degrees Celsius and excellent visibility.

FISHING

Located in close proximity to some of Africa's best deep sea fishing grounds, the waters between Zanzibar and Pemba are home to excellent game fishing year round.

WATERSPORTS

Snorkeling, water-skiing, windsurfing, traditional sailind dhow cruises, and sea kayaking are available at the hotel's on-site watersports center.

PEPONI SPA

Set in tropical gardens, the hotel's spa offers an array of rejuvenating, pampering, and holistic treatments to calm the mind, body, and soul.