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As winter hangs around it is easy to forget the sheer blast of heat that greets visitors to the tropical island of Zanzibar. From the minute you climb off the plane you\u2019re bathed in a warm, tropical embrace.<\/p>\n
This is one part of the world where hours of solid sunlight are pretty much guaranteed. But sunshine alone is not quite enough: it\u2019s the beachfront accommodation that will make \u2013 or break \u2013 the experience. Here is a personal selection of some of the leading resorts in this underrated Indian Ocean gem.<\/p>\n
The Z Hotel, Zanzibar<\/strong><\/p>\n Travertine floors from Turkey, bathroom suites from Italy and cotton sheets from Egypt – The Z Hotel is one of the most beautifully appointed hotels to grace the northern Nungwi Beach. This is the least tidal and most laid-back of all Zanzibar\u2019s beaches and the perfect place for relaxing Zanzibar holidays<\/a>. If the sand doesn\u2019t suit there\u2019s a spa to relax as well as an infinity pool with massage jets, a bar, and views of the sea. Bliss on a beach.<\/p>\n Kilindi, Zanzibar<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Abba lives on at the Kilindi: the fairy-tale building designed and built for Benny Andersson has now been developed into a most unusual, 15-suite luxury property. From outside the buildings do look a little like a Swedish confection \u2013 think the Brothers Grimm with fairytale domes \u2013 but actually reflect the latest water-recycling techniques, topping up pools and showers with Zanzibar\u2019s tropical rainfall. Inside the individual villas are palatial, with stone floors cooled by natural breezes and private gardens, each with two pools. Most unusually, for such a small and intimate property, accommodation is all inclusive, meaning you can relax knowing everything is paid for, but there\u2019s no sense of communal living here: each pavilion is utterly private, and the all inclusive service is provided by your own personal butler.<\/p>\n Serena Inn, Stone Town, Zanzibar<\/strong><\/p>\n Not everyone wants a remote beachfront setting. If sand isn\u2019t your thing the Serena Inn provides the perfect compromise: luxury and tranquillity in the midst of a lively setting, with culture on every side. Surrounded by Sultan\u2019s palaces and the winding alleys of historic Stone Town, the Serena Inn is a haven of peace in the midst of one of East Africa\u2019s oldest and most atmospheric cities. From the swimming pool, views are of dhows sailing by and football games on the beach, and step outside the hotel door and be instantly immersed in the minarets, shops and restaurants of Zanzibar\u2019s capital city. This was where Europe\u2019s first explorers planned their expeditions into Africa, and is a great place for today\u2019s traveller to combine culture and comfort.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Chumbe Island Coral Park, Zanzibar<\/strong><\/p>\n Get away from it all on Chumbe Island. Ten miles out to sea from Zanzibar\u2019s capital, Stone Town, this is barefoot luxury with an eco-tourist twist, light on the environment and staffed \u2013 exclusively \u2013 by locals. Forget intrusive fishing boats: even diving is not allowed on one of Africa\u2019s most pristine coral reefs, ideally explored at the gentle pace of a flapping snorkel. Passionate snorkellers might want to stay several days, but the island is quite small and two or three nights here are an intense experience of ultimate calm.<\/p>\n Diamonds Dream of Zanzibar\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n All inclusive options are a minority on Zanzibar, but if you\u2019d like to keep a lid on your holiday costs Diamonds Dream of Zanzibar is an excellent choice. A range of accommodation from rooms, suites and villas mean there\u2019s accommodation for every budget and facilities are excellent. There\u2019s a spa, water sports centre with PADI dive school and a good selection of restaurants and bars.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n