The secret island of Chapwani

Some say that this island is like living on Koh Lanta, but with all the comforts you need. And with good reason, this little island at the end of the world gives you the impression of being stranded on an atoll, untouched by civilisation and far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. A small stretch of sand just 300 metres wide and 800 metres long, it's an invitation to relax and unwind. You can't help but be seduced by this charming hotel, which privatises the island and comprises 5 palm-roofed bungalows, each with two bedrooms right on the water, overlooking the Indian Ocean. In short, it's the ideal place to start or end your stay in Zanzibar.

It takes just half an hour to get to the island on a small shuttle boat. Transport is free, and the boat leaves for the island once a day at 1.30pm from Stone Town. You return to the archipelago at 10am from Chapwani beach.

Bungalows set on the beach, you wake up to this little piece of paradise with your feet in the sand, facing the Indian Ocean. Here, there is no telephone network, no television, and a weak Wi-Fi network (not accessible in the rooms). The rooms are basic but have all the necessary comforts. Every evening, the chef concocts a unique menu using ultra-fresh produce. The result is a complete change of scenery and a real break from the hustle and bustle.

So, of course, the first thing to do is to put your towel down on the magnificent stretch of sand and bask in the sun for hours on end. Beach, deckchair, swimming pool (salt water) or sea, the whole island invites you to relax.

But there are plenty of activities on offer for day-trippers. The hotel provides kayaks free of charge and offers other activities for a fee, so you can make the most of the island. Like a good massage at the spa, or a solitary picnic on a sandbank. But there are also more sporting activities, such as snorkelling to admire the underwater beauty of the Indian Ocean. You'll discover a multitude of fish as well as superb starfish, each more colourful than the last.

You can also take advantage of the island's small tropical forest for a stroll. You'll come across dozens of white herons and cute little dik-diks, which are dwarf antelopes barely 30 to 40 centimetres high. And why not go hunting for hermit crabs, which roam the island in their thousands - it's the perfect activity to keep the kids entertained.

The end of the day is approaching and the sun is beginning to set. It's time to relax (again) and enjoy the show after a great day of discoveries. Skin warmed by the sun, it's finally time to enjoy the chef's meal. A unique menu that he concocts every evening according to his whims and the catch of the day. It couldn't be fresher or more authentic.

The island can be fully privatised for a dream holiday with family, friends or to celebrate a special occasion. With a capacity of 10 to 24 people, this is a package that many people can only dream of. However, you'll still have to pay no less than $2500 per night on a half-board basis. Dreams come at a price...