Around ten minutes drive south of Stone Town, this hotel is set in lush tropical gardens with one of the most impressive botanical collections in East Africa and home to the historical Mbweni Ruins. The 13 spacious rooms are named after flowers or plants, furnished with four poster beds, traditional furniture and antiques. All have en suite bathrooms, with air conditioning and a private balcony.

Mbweni Ruins Hotel is a popular place for weddings and functions because of its romantic ambience and lush, sultry surroundings. Wedding ceremonies are held in the ruins of the old Anglican church. Hundreds of candles are lit, earthenware planters are filled with exotic flowers and archways of palms are erected to create a magical event that even the most pragmatic wont forget. A reception of drinks and canapes or dinner on the jetty can be arranged.

For ultimate extravagance, ask management to arrange the forty strong, African choir to accompany your ceremony followed by the convoy of white sailed dhows to collect your wedding party at sunset and sail off to neighbouring islands for lavish wedding celebrations.