The Residence

While not a white sand beach as on the east cost of the island, it is still a workable beach and has the big benefits of being totally private as well as west facing for the sunset. As always, low tide makes it fairly unusable, but with a private pool to each villa and a huge main swimming pool this should not prove to be a problem.

The south‑western coastline offers calm, warm water suited to snorkelling among reef fish, starfish and small coral patches, while boat excursions toward deeper reefs can reveal turtles, dolphins, reef sharks and rays. Kayaking and paddle‑boarding are often possible in sheltered conditions, and divers can explore offshore coral slopes where larger oceanic species occasionally pass. Nearby mangroves also attract herons and kingfishers, adding gentle wildlife interest to romantic coastal activities.

On a practical note, the resort’s expansive layout means longer walks between facilities, and the tidal range limits direct swimming for extended periods each day.

With such a vast area (around 32 hectares), they have done a good job all in all. Obviously the main issue is trying to get as many beach front villas without making them feel crowded together….this they have managed pretty well by planting between the two. Each of the ocean front villas also has access to their own beach loungers.

With a hotel of this size, there is also always going to be a few issues with getting around. They have side stepped it to a degree by offering a bicycle to everyone and so there are small, Chinese style, movements of guests at around supper and lunch times! They do also offer a golf cart type transport for those that are slightly less mobile. The main areas of the hotel work well, with the spa and entrance behind the pool and the restaurant and bar off to the right of this.

Do see our new The Residence Picture Gallery further down this page.

Vast rooms that are laid out as Ocean front and garden view in essence. They are all basically the same, with a big lounge area, the master bedroom, outdoor pool and sun lounger area and indoor and outdoor showers. We struggled a little with the logic of having such a vast lounge area as there is not a whole load in there apart from the tv, but it does add to the feeling of space and, for the family villas, it is the perfect communal area. Using many imported fabrics and woods (from Indonesia and Malasia) they have been completed to a very high standard.

Do see Best Safaris & Holidays on this page.

Please call us in the UK on the usual +44 1525 840 149 or email info@theafricaspecialists.com to check availability, best prices and what adventures you have in mind. We can plan and arrange it all for you and have been for over 20 years!