Almanara

Almanara is a collection of villas built around a swimming pool at Diani, one of Kenya's most beautiful beaches.

There are six executive villas built around the swimming pool, and one vast presidential villa overlooking the sea. Each of the executive villas has three double bedrooms, all with en suite bathrooms, and comes with its own maid, chef and waiter. Decor is in an opulent African-Italian style, reflecting the background of the owners, and there is air-conditioning and Wi-Fi throughout. The rooftop terraces are the real highlights of the villas, with views out over the pool, and shaded by a sail to keep off the sun in the heat of the day. All six executive villas share the central pool.

The presidential villa, however, has its own private swimming pool. The villa itself is vast, with five double bedrooms and a huge amount of reception space — it would be easy to host a party for a hundred here and still have space for a few more. This is really the ultimate in opulence, and for people who want polished, glossy luxury, it's hard to beat.

If you're keen to be active, there is a water sports centre on site as well as a spa. Food is prepared each day just for you and eaten in your personal villa. There is also a restaurant down on the beach for visitors who want to eat out.

OUR RATING: First Class