Each executive villa, thoughtfully decorated in the local Swahili style but with a hearty contemporary twist, sleeps up to six guests and comes with its own staff of chef, waiter and housekeeper. Boasting three double bedrooms (each with ensuite bathroom) on the first floor and a huge roof terrace, the villas also consist of a large kitchen and open plan living/dining areas on the ground floor.
The spacious lounge area boasts designer details such as intricately carved wooden furnishings, plush couches with tribal print cushions, a beautiful variety of African objets d'art, a huge flat screen television and arabesque lamps. The L-shaped terrace that curves around the lounge and dining area is the ideal spot for alfresco meals or simple relaxation. The roof terrace commands views over the lush gardens, with a collection of comfy day beds and massive sun loungers, while the suspended sails provide shade on those incredibly hot days.
The winding staircase from the lounge to the first floor leads you to a landing with work desk, telephone, computer (WIFI is also available, free of charge) and printer. The spacious master bedroom is quite girly and features a carved, Lamu-style four poster bed, draped in luxurious sari-like linen with matching cushions in jewel shades and shimmering shantung material. A small lounge area looks towards a huge, flat screen television and DVD player, while the carved, white mirror frames suspended above the vanities polish off the room's feminine feel. A walk-in closet leads to the bathroom (a tad small for a master bedroom) where a raised Jacuzzi with rain shower is the star attraction. The attention to detail is noticeable straightaway; from the flowers, to the hand towels folded into shirts, or the face towels folded into tiny sailing boats, to the toiletries found in cobalt blue retro potion bottles, and even the toilet paper roll folded into an origami-like piece of art every day. The two remaining bedrooms are decorated in slightly different yet harmonious styles but each is comfortable and immaculate.
Meanwhile, the presidential villa known as the 'Casa Bella' has attracted many a celebrity but is also a popular spot for weddings. With five sumptuous ocean-view bedrooms surrounding a central grand hall, the villa is entered via elaborate Lamu doors, where guests cross a glass walkway that overlooks a lovely Koi pond. The villa boasts not only ocean views but its own infinity swimming pool, spa, gym, games room and huge kitchen. Guests have at their disposal a private chef, housekeeper, security staff and a team of waiters, as well as exclusive use of a Toyota VX Land Cruiser (within the Diani area), complete with private chauffeur.
Amy Adejokun
Section editor
