In the centre of Zanzibar’s east coast, the Island Pongwe rests in Pongwe Bay, about 60 minutes from Stone Town and the airport. The lodge is only 100 metres from the main beach. At low tide, you can walk across. At high tide a small boat carries you over.

Each villa keeps things spare, tactile and calm. The five Standard Villas include three Bay View and two Ocean View Villas, each with 35 square metres. The Sultan Villa offers 70 square metres, a bathtub and a Nespresso machine. Private terraces, sunbeds, and king beds set the mood.

Days follow the tide rather than the clock. Low water opens ocean walks, seaweed farms and sea urchin hunts. High water brings sailing by traditional boat and local line fishing, with the chef ready to cook your catch. This rhythm gives each day two faces, both rich with Zanzibar life.

Luxury feels low-key here, which is the charm. The spa brings treatments to your veranda, with the ocean as the soundtrack. The Gourmet Restaurant forms the social heart. Half Board, Full Board and the Exotic Experience Package add choice, from spa care to romantic dinners.

Meals have a fine island feel at the Gourmet Restaurant. Chefs use local produce and daily ocean finds, from sea urchins and agar agar seaweed salad to lobster and crab. Breakfast runs from 7 to 10. Lunch and dinner are à la carte, with water on hand.

Romance feels unforced on this small island. The Exotic Experience Package can include quality spirits and wines, excursions, a spa treatment and a romantic dinner. Picture a candlelit table close to the water, then a quiet walk back to your villa. The setting keeps each milestone intimate, simple and rare.