Anjajavy Le Lodge

A huge rosewood terrace skirts the front of Anjajavy's main dining and lounge area. Simply designed with a central wooden bar, there are directors chairs scattered, and crisp, white linen-covered tables overlooking the manicured gardens and giant palm trees. Adjoining the deck is a huge, glistening swimming pool, with deckchairs and large canvas umbrellas. Just a hop, skip and a jump further and you're on the beach, where on a still evening, you can dine with sand between your toes.

24 beautifully appointed, A-frame wooden villas stand on stilts along the beach. Each has its own spacious terrace with simple canvas furniture for lounging and enjoying fabulous views of the sea. The chalets are simple but attractive, with Madagascan rosewood furnishings throughout. Each has a living room, bedroom and en-suite bathroom, and up a small staircase, a private relaxation room. Lest we forget the gorgeously large corner-bath to really kick back and relax. Mosquito nets and air-conditioning are provided.

This part of Madagascar is blessed with a lot more sunny days than rain, but remember that the lodge is closed mid-Jan to late March.