Retreats with Swimming Pools
Cocokinondo, Galu Beach, Diani
A magnificent modernist beach house and one of the most luxurious and high-tech private properties in East Africa, Cocokinondo is a spectacular seven-bedroom home with a 20-metre swimming pool, direct access to miles of gorgeous empty white-sand beach, an all-weather tennis court and every possible other amenity and convenience
Mwangati House, Kilifi
Mwangati House is a gorgeous 6-bedroom beach house in one of the most enviable positions in Kilifi. Spacious and family-friendly, with a generous and inviting swimming pool and pool house, a lush and shady 2-acre plot and an excellent team of staff to look after you, it's the perfect place for a luxurious and carefree break at the coast.
Dodo’s Tower, Lake Oloiden, Naivasha
Unique and exquisite Dodo’s Tower is set on a magical and secluded 500-acre private estate teeming with wildlife. A stay here is an enchanting experience and combines elegant and atmospheric accommodation with glorious scenery, wonderful birds-eye views and exceptional cuisine and service.
Lazy Days, Diani Beach
Splendid and spacious Lazy Days offers the comfort, charm and seclusion of a luxurious private house with all the benefits and amenities of a chic boutique hotel, including a delicious and comprehensive full-board or all-inclusive menu – the perfect recipe for an exclusive, carefree and indulgent break at the beach.
Lolldaiga House, Laikipia
A gorgeous, spacious, secluded and off-the-beaten-track safari retreat, exclusive-use Lolldaiga House is beautifully designed, decorated and furnished and enjoys glorious views and excellent game viewing in one of Kenya’s loveliest and least visited private wildlife conservancies.
Laragai House, Borana Conservancy, Laikipia
Opulent and exclusive Laragai House combines grandeur, space and comfort to memorable effect and is the perfect place for a very special break in the bush with family and friends. Enjoy all kinds of adventurous safari activities or simply relax, indulge and recharge at this exceptionally welcoming and well-appointed private retreat.
260 Beach House, Vipingo
A lovely, large, light and luxurious private home set on an unusually quiet, unspoilt and idyllic stretch of coastline between Kilifi and Mombasa, 260 Beach House is spacious, secluded and the perfect place for a self-contained and untrammelled break at the beach.
Deloraine, Nakuru
One of Kenya’s grandest and most historic houses, elegant and welcoming Deloraine dates back over 100 years and is now available for exclusive-use, fully-catered, owner-hosted stays. The perfect place for gatherings of family and friends, the extensive and beautiful grounds and wealth of fun outdoor activities make it a wonderful destination for children of all ages.
Cozy Point Villa, Malindi
A cool and stylish villa with a warm and personal welcome, Cozy Point is quietly and privately situated in Malindi’s best area. The charming and professional owner-managers and team of attentive staff go out of their way ensure that every stay here is as happy, comfortable and carefree as possible.
Nyumba Kiru, Manda Beach, Lamu
A luxurious, expansive and imaginatively-designed beach retreat with direct access to the lovely empty sands of Ras Kitau, there’s plenty of space at Nyumba Kiru for larger groups to spread out and socialise around the swimming pool and in numerous living, lounging and dining areas.
Manda Bay, Manda Island
An idyllic and intimate boutique beach lodge set on the quiet and unspoilt northwestern tip of Manda Island, Manda Bay makes the perfect away-from-it-all retreat and is also known for its excellent ocean fishing and wealth of water sports.
Hippo Point Manor House, Lake Oloiden, Naivasha
Hippo Point is an escapist’s dream - an exquisite and historic Tudor-style manor house in a sublime and secluded lakeside setting. A stay here is a transporting experience and combines elegant, romantic accommodation and welcoming service with gorgeous scenery and abundant wildlife.
Kinondo Kwetu, Galu Beach, Diani
Hidden gem and home-away-from-home, Kinondo Kwetu is a sophisticated and welcoming Swedish-owned and managed boutique lodge tucked away on the secluded southern sands of Galu Beach. Utterly relaxing and sybaritic, it offers water sports and activities galore for more energetic guests.
Sosian Lodge, Laikipia
A small and traditional lodge of great charm and authenticity, set on a 24,000-acre private ranch and conservancy with a wide range of fun and adventurous outdoor activities. Accommodation is available on a generous full-board basis or for exclusive-use ‘self-catering’ stays for up to 16 guests.
Wazi Dubu House, Kizingoni Beach, Lamu
Luxurious and laid-back Wazi Dubu enjoys an idyllic and secluded position on Lamu's lovely Kizingoni Beach and is the perfect private retreat for larger families or groups of friends. Relax and experience beautiful breezy accommodation, a 12-metre swimming pool, the services of an exceptional team of staff and the use of your own private speedboat with captain.
Enasoit, Laikipia
One of Kenya’s most luxurious private safari destinations, Enasoit only ever welcomes one small group of guests at a time. It combines beautifully-appointed accommodation with exceptional game viewing and a range of fun and adventurous activities in beautiful Laikipia landscapes.
Makena’s Hills, Gallmann Mukutan Conservancy, Laikipia
There are few more magical, remote and exhilarating places to stay in Kenya than Makena’s Hills. Enjoy sophisticated accommodation, breathtaking views and pristine, empty landscapes at this small and exclusive lodge perched high on the edge of the Great Rift Valley in North West Laikipia
Ekorian’s Mugie Camp, Mugie Conservancy, Laikipia
Ekorian's Mugie Camp provides our favourite kind of safari experience - small-scale, authentic, uncrowded and family-friendly. The only camp in the 22,000-acre Mugie Conservancy, it offers a warm and personal welcome, attractive accommodation, excellent guiding and a wide range of fun and adventurous activities.
Mdoroni, Kilifi – Behewa House
Airy and atmospheric Behewa House is built around a cooling central courtyard and looks out to sea across the mouth of Kilifi Creek. Usually combined with neighbouring Pehoni House, with which it shares colourful gardens with ancient baobabs, lovely swimming pool and private beach access, the two houses together are perfect for larger family groups.
Mdoroni, Kilifi – Pehoni House
An elegant, comfortable and calm four bedroom house in an enviable position overlooking the mouth of Kilifi Creek. Usually combined with neighbouring Behewa House, with which it shares colourful gardens with ancient baobabs, a lovely swimming pool and private beach access, the two houses together are perfect for larger family groups.
The Dhow House, Kilifi
A really attractive and spacious clifftop home, peacefully situated within Kilifi Plantation between Kilifi and Takaungu, the Dhow House is a lovely private place to stay, relax and recharge. Enjoy cooling ocean breezes, a stunning infinity pool and a private tunnel down to your own deserted beach.
Olerai House, North Lake, Naivasha
One of Naivasha and Kenya’s best kept secrets – an intimate, welcoming and characterful boutique lodge set within the magical Olerai Sanctuary – 300 beautiful rewilded lakeside acres teeming with wildlife. It’s hard to imagine a more relaxing or authentic near-to-Nairobi retreat.
Nderit House, Kilifi
An elegant, sophisticated and imposing family home, recently extended, refurbished and redecorated to the highest standards, Nderit House sits in a breezy clifftop position overlooking the entrance to Kilifi Creek – it is the perfect place for a luxurious and relaxing break at the coast.
The Oaseas, Shale Bay, Malindi
A lovely, unique and imaginatively-designed private home, The Oaseas sits beside 5 miles of unspoilt sandy beach on beautiful Shale Bay. Peace, seclusion and relaxation are guaranteed here - with all the attractions of Malindi less than 30 minutes away.
Villa Ballu, Kilifi
A really inviting and deservedly popular beach house, Villa Ballu combines smart, spacious and airy accommodation with attractive tropical gardens, a lovely swimming pool and direct private access to the uncrowded white sands of Kilifi’s Bofa Beach.
Marula Cottage, Galu Beach, Diani
A stylish and well-equipped contemporary beach bungalow with plunge pool and air-conditioned bedrooms just steps away from beautiful and quiet Galu Beach, Marula Cottage is the perfect laid-back beach retreat for one or two couples or a small family.
Marula House, Galu Beach, Diani
A lovely bright and stylish new house with swimming pool set back from the uncrowded white sands of Galu Beach, Marula House has air-conditioned bedrooms, spacious and flexible accommodation and makes the ideal beach retreat for families with children.
Olmaroroi House, Rift Valley, Ngong
A magnificent new private retreat looking out across the Rift Valley, Olmaroroi House makes the perfect near-to-Nairobi getaway for anyone longing for space, peace and luxury. Relax and enjoy dramatic landscapes, panoramic views, stylish and expansive accommodation and a spectacular swimming pool.
The Olerai Studio, North Lake, Naivasha
A delightful, colourful and spacious 2-bedroom cottage set within the beautiful 300-acre Olerai Sanctuary on the northern shore of Lake Naivasha, this former artist's studio is surrounded by nature and wildlife and makes the perfect private escape from the city for a couple or family.
The Dairy, North Lake, Naivasha
A bright, welcoming and very roomy 3-bedroom home-from-home recently and lovingly converted from the original dairy on the beautiful lakeside Olerai Sanctuary. The Dairy is filled with hospitality, comfort and charm and the extensive grounds are home to a huge wealth and variety of animal and birdlife.
Beach House, Shela Village, Lamu
This magnificent 5-bedroom private home sits in a commanding position above Shela beach, enjoys wonderful ocean views from its beautiful gardens, roof terraces and dramatic infinity pool and makes the perfect luxurious holiday retreat for up to a dozen fortunate guests
Kilamawingu House, Shela Village, Lamu
An exceptionally charming, spacious and beautifully-furnished family house with swimming pool, set in lovely gardens close to the seafront in Shela village, Kilamawingu is one of the most characterful, luxurious and well-appointed places to stay on the island.
The Little River Camp at El Karama Lodge, Laikipia
A luxurious and intimate new addition to Laikipia's acclaimed El Karama Lodge, the Little River Camp consists of two spacious riverside cottages with their own private living and dining room. It makes a perfect bush retreat for one or two couples or a small family.
House in the Wild, Maasai Mara
An intimate and welcoming boutique lodge tucked away within the 1000-acre private Naretoi Estate on the edge of the Maasai Mara Reserve, House in the Wild sits on the banks of the Mara River within the award-winning Enonkishu Conservancy, which provides excellent game viewing and an abundance of safari and community activities.
The Moon Houses, Shela Village, Lamu
A delightful collection of neighbouring and interconnecting houses set close to the seafront in Shela Village. All are historic and charming, furnished with local antiques and built in traditional Swahili style. Each can be rented individually – or together with one or more of the adjoining properties.
Coral House, Kilifi
Coral House features five air-conditioned bedrooms, a courtyard pool, spectacular ocean views and direct access to Kilifi’s lovely and deserted Bofa Beach. Ideal for a pleasurable and relaxing break at the coast, Coral House can be rented together with neighbouring Toriana House to accommodate up to 30 guests in carefree comfort.
Toriana, Kilifi
One of the largest and most luxurious private houses on the Kenya coast, Toriana is built in grand Swahili Arabic style and set in four acres of lovely oceanfront grounds overlooking Kilifi’s beautiful and unspoilt Bofa Beach. Toriana is the perfect coastal escape for large families, groups of friends or professional retreats.
Kuni Jogoo House, Kizingoni Beach, Lamu
A really stylish, spacious and secluded retreat overlooking the beautiful deserted sands of Lamu’s Kizingoni Beach, Kuni Jogoo is the perfect place for a luxurious and carefree getaway with family and friends. Enjoy the 9-metre pool, lovely ocean views and the use of speedboat with captain.
Lucita Farm Cottage 2, Lake Naivasha
The larger of two lovely new guest cottages set in beautiful shady gardens on the southern shore of Lake Naivasha which come complete with swimming pool and floodlit tennis court. Comfortable, private, furnished with taste and style and perfect for a self-contained and relaxing escape from Nairobi.
Azhari Beach Suite, Diani
A unique and luxurious cottage for two set in lovely tropical gardens just steps from the Indian ocean and one of Africa’s most beautiful beaches, Azhari is the ideal private romantic retreat for couples and honeymooners. Relax and enjoy stunning sea views, a private plunge pool and refreshing jungle shower.
Watamu Treehouse, Watamu
A haven of hospitality and healthy living and the perfect place for a happy and harmonious break at the beach, Watamu’s unique and celebrated Treehouse sits amid ancient coastal forest and enjoys direct access to the beautiful empty sands and warm waters of Turtle Bay and the Marine Park.
Matalai Cottage, Watamu
A stylish and unusually well-equipped new beach house with three air-conditioned double bedrooms, a plunge pool upstairs and a swimming pool downstairs, Matalai Cottage sits above Turtle Bay and Watamu Marine Park and enjoys gorgeous Indian Ocean views.
Ahana Villa, Galu Beach, Diani
A palatial new home which sits in a commanding position overlooking beautiful Galu Beach, Ahana Villa blends Swahili, Indian and Arabian architecture to incredible effect. The house is beautifully finished and luxuriously equipped and boasts a spectacular 25-metre swimming pool.
El Karama Lodge, Laikipia
The hidden gem of Laikipia – El Karama is an award-winning, intimate, family-friendly wildlife lodge with exceptional game viewing and swimming pool. Guests have access to 14,000 acres of private bush land with a huge variety and quantity of birds, mammals, trees and plants.
Acacia House and Mara House, Maasai Mara
Two luxurious private houses with swimming pool in the heart of the bush, Acacia House and Mara House offer a very exclusive safari experience well away from the crowds. Generous all-inclusive rates include game drives with vehicle and qualified guide and all kinds of other safari activities.
Ibambe House, Watamu
A stunning new beachfront villa with five spacious bedrooms and lovely large freeform pool set in tropical gardens above Turtle Bay and the Watamu Marine Park. Ibambe House is luxurious, welcoming, well-appointed and the perfect place for a carefree family break at the coast.
Diani House, Diani Beach
A highly-recommended boutique guest house on one of the most beautiful stretches of beach in the whole of Africa. Attentive hosts, excellent staff, delicious cooking and charming colonial-style accommodation make Diani House a memorable and relaxing home-from-home at the coast.
Samawati House, Msambweni
A traditional Arabesque house with swimming pool in a stunning and secluded beachfront setting, Samawati House sits on a part of Kenya’s southern coast largely untouched by tourism – and makes a the perfect, peaceful, away-from-it-all family retreat.
Lucita Farm Cottage 1, Lake Naivasha
The smaller of two lovely new guest cottages set in beautiful shady gardens on the southern shore of Lake Naivasha which come complete with swimming pool and floodlit tennis court. Comfortable, private, furnished with taste and style and perfect for a self-contained and relaxing escape from Nairobi.
Kamili Cottage, Kilifi
A delightful, very private and peaceful holiday home ideal for couples or small families, Kamili Cottage sits in 1.5 acres of lush tropical gardens to the south of Kilifi Creek. Enjoy the inviting swimming pool, air-conditioned bedrooms and direct access to a secluded sandy beach cove.
The Cabanas at Kizingoni Beach, Lamu
Remote, romantic and highly relaxing – a collection of new 1 and 2 bedroom beach cottages with pool specially designed for couples and honeymooners, the Cabanas share the same exceptional standards of comfort and hospitality as the Kizingoni Beach houses.
Shwari House, Watamu
One of the loveliest and most luxurious private homes on the Kenyan coast, Shwari House sits in a commanding position above Turtle Bay Beach with wonderful Indian Ocean views. A really spacious, sophisticated and relaxing house, there are few better places for a blissful and carefree break at the beach.
The Private House at Takaungu, Kilifi
A special, characterful and affordable house in one of the quietest and most unspoilt spots on the Kenyan coast with a freshwater pool and direct access to a near-private beach. Wonderful ocean views, delightful staff, peace and seclusion make this a really memorable coastal retreat.
Tomuru Villa, Watamu
A highly-recommended beachfront house with direct access to beautiful Turtle Bay and Watamu Marine Park, Tomuru Villa has four double bedrooms, a lovely swimming pool and makes the perfect seaside retreat for one or two families or a group of friends.
The Old Boma, Mikindani, Tanzania
One of Tanzania’s best kept secrets, and one of the most unusual and charming places to stay on the entire East African coast. The Old Boma, a magnificent German fort dating from 1895, has been handsomely restored to create a smart 9-bedroom hotel in a remote, fascinating and little-visited location.
Betty’s Suite, Shela Village, Lamu
Betty’s Suite is a perfect and highly romantic 1-bedroom retreat for couples and honeymooners. Just steps away from Shela’s seafront and beach, it enjoys lovely views across the Lamu channel from its own private roof terrace and elevated infinity pool.
Neem House, Malindi
A huge Swahili mansion in a breezy elevated position close to the ocean, Neem House is packed with history, character and charm. It sits in shady gardens with swimming pool just 350 metres from Malindi’s beautiful sandy beaches and is the perfect coastal getaway for large family groups.
Ol Popongi Camp, Kedong, Naivasha
A beautiful and well-equipped private tented camp with swimming pool, Ol Popongi is a lovely and highly relaxing destination in itself - as well as the ideal base from which to explore and enjoy all the attractions of Lake Naivasha, Mount Longonot and Hell’s Gate National Park.
Mukima House, Nanyuki, Laikipia
A beautifully-restored 75-year old mansion in its own 360-acre private conservancy, magnificent Mukima House is the perfect setting for a house party or wedding, the ideal base from which to experience some of Kenya’s most spectacular scenery and wildlife, and a wonderfully luxurious and relaxing destination in its own right.
Forodhani House, Shela Village, Lamu
A spectacular 5-bedroom house in one of the best positions on the island, Forodhani sits close to Peponi Hotel at the very start of the island’s wonderful 8-mile beach. Stylish, sought-after and with wonderful sea views, it is one of the loveliest places to stay on the Kenyan coast.
