Shela House; Luxury Beach Hotel in Lamu, Kenya

Shela House

Shela House is actually a collection of four villas, Garden, Beach, Shela and Palm, ranging in size from accommodating 8 to 12 people, and all set in the winding passages of Shela and its surrounds.

Shela House – The Facts

Shela House – The Detail

The four stylish, comfortable and very private houses are situated in Shela Village, each with their own individual character and rooftop terraces with panoramic views of the sea, the dunes and life in the village below. Meals can be taken up here under the stars with gentle breezes carrying fragrant smells of jasmine and Swahili spices.

Beach House (sleeps 10) is the last house on the sea front before the sand dunes start. A large, cool house with four double and one dormitory style bedrooms – all ensuite and with spectacular sea views. On the first floor, raised above beach level, there is a stunning, edgeless, fresh water swimming pool which has a bar area and low comfortable baraza seating.

Situated between Palm House and the madarasa, Shela House (sleeps 9), is a renovated colonial era house, and has been built on three floors around an open courtyard, well shaded with plants. The entrance hall leads into the courtyard, edged by a baraza sitting and eating area. Two staircases lead from the courtyard to the upper rooms and terraces. It is an old house of great character, with ample room for two families.

Palm House (sleeps 8) is a stunning Swahili style house, a mere 5 minutes walk from the beach, and is designed around an open courtyard with a tall central Pemba Island palm tree. The living and dining areas look onto the courtyard and another small tropical side garden. With its spacious, yet compact design, it has 4 bedrooms and, like all the Shela houses, there is a panoramic view from the covered rooftop, with a bar, sun beds and baraza lounging area.

Shela House – Our view

The concept of the Shela houses is definitely one that really works well in this small and peaceful village. Ideal for a family or group who prefer to have their own space, the villa offers the options of both having a catered holiday (each house has its own staff and professional chef), or a fully self-catered trip. All of the houses are well placed within the village, but we would probably err towards the beach house as it is right on the beach and features a pool and is the last bit of civilisation for the next 14 miles! They are all, however, perfect for a week as a beach and town stay…but don’t forget to bring your own alcohol if you like an evening sundowner as the village (with the exception of the nearby Peponi) is dry!