Unquestionably the best standard hotel in Stone Town, the Serena Inn is a stunning property set in two historic sea-front buildings that have been masterfully restored into what is now Zanzibar’s only member of the “Small Luxury Hotels of the World” group.
The hotel has a prime sea-front location at the end of Shangani Street, less than 5 minutes walk from the centre of Stone Town. As well as very good seafront restaurant, there is also a comfortable bar and lounge area and a secluded swimming pool overlooking the ocean. There are 51 air conditioned rooms, all of which are en suite with mini-bars, satellite TV, a balcony, a valuables safe and telephone. Most of the standard rooms have a sea view, however to guarantee this a ‘Prime Room’ must be booked.
Excursions around Stone Town and Jozani Forest, around-the-island tours, scuba diving, snorkeling trips and day-boat excursions to Zanzibar's nearby beaches and islands can all be organized at reception. As with all the Serena properties, this hotel is extremely well managed, and the staff are efficiency and friendliness personified.
The Serena Inn is affiliated to the Mangapwani Beach Club situated on the northwest coast of the island approximately 20 minutes drive from Stone Town. Serena Inn guests can use this beach club free of charge (complimentary transfers are provided). Activities on offer include swimming, snorkeling, sea kayaking, diving, dhow trips and nature trails plus visits to a dhow workshop and the brooding caverns of the nearby Mangapwani Slave Caves.
Prices from £157 per person sharing per night (half board)
"Serena serenity"
S Booth - Oct 08
