As frequent visitors to Zanzibar and now also spending four months on the island this was a two night break from our jobs at a different hotel on Zanzibar. Quiet with good food, but definitely on the more expensive side when comparing to other places. Other restaurants are within walking distance on the beach. The large swimmingpool was certainly the highlight. Service was impeccable, but staff not very talkative, but did their job and made sure you where ok. Also they speak very good english. Trouble with the air conditioner and the noisy ceiling fan made it a bit uncomfortable, which we pointed out. We did get a discount on our room, and the owner was very informative and accommodating. Recommend this place to couples for example who wants a quiet getaway.
Matemwe beach is just beautiful!

Let me start by saying that I have never written an on-line review before, but felt I had to in this case. We spent about a week here in August, 2011 and were delighted. If you are looking for vast, unspoiled beach, thoughtful and dedicated staff and management, and an affordable, peaceful "retreat," this is the place to go. The photos on the website gallery are genuine (http://www.zanzibarretreat.com/gallery.aspx). The bar/lounge and dining area looks out to the Indian Ocean, getting there is easy from Stone Town, and the food is excellent...BUT please don't go if you're looking for discos, loud parties, and unruly patrons. It was perfect for the two of us with our 16 year-old son, and the other couples and families that we spoke with.
Rodney, Lorna and Nathan, Alberta CANADA

I have never posted a review before but now I have to do it because of this great hotel! It´s a small hotel at the beach with great food, nice rooms and really nice environment!

We can gladly recommend this to anyone that want to have a peaceful and enjoyable holiday!

Magnus & Tessan

We were warmly welcomed back to the Zanzibar Retreat after a previous visit only a few months earlier (a side trip while visiting our daughter in Dar Es Salaam). Once again we were delighted with the ambience, service and food at this intimate little hotel on a perfect beach. The hospitality could not be faulted, and the pool is a delight: clean and sparkling, it is the size one would expect at a much bigger hotel. The breakfasts are simple and delicious, with lots of fresh fruit. We will certainly come back, as having visited other beach hotels in Zanzibar this is definitely what we are looking for.