Green & Blue Ocean Lodge is located in Matemwe on the northeast coast. Perched on a coral bluff looking out at the Mnemba Atoll, it is a stunning setting offering access to the best diving on the island. The beach below is quiet with little passing foot traffic. The dramatic fluctuation between high and low tide, however, means it isn’t always possible to swim in the sea.
Style and Character
Despite the small plot, this lodge is thoughtfully designed. Sandy paths are sunk into a riot of green succulents, and spikey palms wend their way between the thatched cottages to the open-air beachfront structure which spills over the beach. Its two turquoise infinity pools are ringed by chic white sun loungers. The jaunty blue, white and yellow colour scheme, fresh cut flowers and contemporary beach furniture give the place a light, bright, modern feel. The spa, situated at the back of the property, is equally stylish and is served by its own swimming pool.
Service and Facilities
The standard of service here is high. The walled plot contains three swimming pools and The Thalia Spa offers a high standard of treatment with massages, manicures, body scrubs and facials that seem good enough to eat (papaya-honey facial, anyone?). In addition, the diving in Matemwe is the best on the island and diving courses and trips are offered at the Dive Point outlet. Kite-surfing and kayaking are possible nearby.
Parking
Restaurant
Bar
Laundry
Pool
Wi-Fi
Beach
Rooms
At Green & Blue Ocean Lodge there are 14 independent thatched villas which sit snugly in the tropical gardens. Apart from the varying views (garden or ocean) they are all built to the same plan with a sitting area, bathroom, large double bedroom downstairs and a further bedroom/sitting room upstairs. Mango pole ceilings, burnished cinnamon-coloured floors, raffia rugs and sky-blue accents lend themselves to an appealing seaside vibe. All rooms are equipped with ceiling fans and air-conditioning, although the latter isn’t as efficient as it could be, given that the rooms aren’t entirely sealed. Each room also has a deep verandah, an outdoor shower and a private plunge pool (not heated).
Food and Drink
The dining room, on its cantilevered deck, is the focal point of the property and the menu has gourmet pretentions. Breakfast is a wonderful selection of home-baked breads, fruit and à la carte items such as breakfast burgers. Lunch favours light plates of sashimi or lobster salad and dinner is an à la carte menu with a focus on seafood. While the execution is good the prices are high even for Matemwe. In the evening, the boat-shaped bar is lit up with lanterns creating a deeply romantic atmosphere.
Not suitable.
Family-Friendly?
All of the villas can accommodate two extra beds on the first floor. That said, there are no specific child-friendly activities. The pools are unfenced, there are multi-level terraces and the quiet vibe here is adult-oriented.
