Samawati, meaning ‘heavenly place’ in the local Digo tongue, is indeed an idyllic place. This charming Lamu-style house looks out over the Indian Ocean and evokes a feeling of great space and freedom through luxurious outdoor living.

Samawati is set amid nine acres of gardens, planted with palms and indigenous trees, slightly elevated one looks out over two hundred metres of beachfront over the Indian Ocean. For those looking to enjoy a little time in the African sun - on one of the last unspoilt beaches of Kenya’s coastline, shared by only a handful of other private homes – this is the perfect villa, off the beaten track, where one can really relax in peace and unspoilt seclusion.

The accommodation is provided in four spacious and airy bedrooms, most of which have their own bathrooms and the Majilis – a beautiful open area strewn with divans – an indoor sitting room, sun terrace and shady pergola all arranged around a central courtyard. The whole house has been designed to make the most of the spectacular views of garden and ocean and furniture, doors and windows are hand carved in Swahili-Arab style, left open at night to usher in the fabulous coastal sunrise.

Samawati House is let on a self-catering basis and staffed with a fabulous cook, house servant, gardener and night watchman. It is great fun to shop for fresh fruit and vegetables in Msambweni village and the local fishermen bring their fresh catches to the back door daily – where Garissa (our cook) usually takes charge of bargaining and purchase, (although it is always fun to get involved!) and will proceed to cook delicious meals from the wonderful fresh ingredients supplied.

Samawati is ideally situated for a beach holiday with safe swimming and goggling from a lovely beach but also for exploring this corner of Kenya - visits to the Shimba Hills National Park, the Kisite Island Marine Park, Wasini Island, Pemba Channel Fishing Club at Shimoni, Funzi Lagoon and many other fascinating areas nearby. It really is a great house for a family gathering or group of friends to live the East African life, if only for a wonderfully enchanting holiday.