Mbweni Ruins Hotel - Zanzibar

This is a great place for bird and nature lovers and for those who prefer a tranquil setting a few kilometres from the hustle and bustle of Stone Town. Mbweni Ruins Hotel is situated in a botanical garden, overlooking a golden stretch of beach dotted with mangroves. Butterflies dance, birds twitter and fireflies dart through the lush greenery fragrant with the scent of hibiscus, frangipani and oleander.

Paths wind through the well-maintained gardens to the swimming pool, which overlooks the beach. The informal dining deck and bar also have lovely views over the ocean. This is the ideal spot to sip a sundowner while you watch the dhows and fishing outriggers glide by.

A nature trail takes you to see more than 650 plant species and 150 varieties of palms from around the world. One of these is the endemic Pemba Palm (Dypsis pembana). You can also take a stroll to the ruins of St Mary's School for Girls, which was built in the 1870s. The school provided education to the daughters of freed slaves and to girls who were released from the inhumane slave dhows. 

Most of the 13 en-suite rooms are spacious, comfortable and decorated in typical Zanzibar style. They are air-conditioned and have verandas overlooking the lush gardens and sea. These gardens are alive with birdsong. Each of the rooms have been given different tree names, reflecting the diversity of trees and plants found in the beautiful gardens. If you're on honeymoon or want something extra-special, book the Baobab Suite. This romantic room has a king-size, four-poster bed, a private rooftop terrace and awesome views of the sea, gardens and ruins.

Location: Mbweni Ruins Hotel is situated on the west coast of Zanzibar, 7km from Stone Town.

General facilities:
. Raintree Restaurant
. Sundowner bar
. Large swimming pool near the beach

Room facilities:
. Air-conditioning
. Tea- and coffee-making facilities
. Mosquito nets
. En-suite bathroom
. Balcony
. Honeymoon suite

Activities:
. Explore the Mbweni Ruins
. Stroll in the botanical gardens, identifying plants and birds
. Staff can assist in organizing day trips to Stone Town, the spice plantations and dhow rides to Prison, Bawe and Chumbe islands.

Services:
. A courtesy bus to Stone Town leaves five times a day.