Hotel in north coast Anjouan, Comoros
Ylang Beach Resort, Anjouan
A boutique luxury property on Anjouan's northern coast, set amid ylang-ylang and clove plantations sloping to a private beach. Spacious bungalows with open-air bathrooms bring the tropical garden inside. Personalised spice tours, kayaking, and diving are arranged exclusively for guests.
Ylang Beach Resort sits on Anjouan's northern coast in the Bandrani area, where the hillsides of a historically significant spice-producing island descend through groves of ylang-ylang, cloves, and vanilla to a private stretch of Indian Ocean beach. Anjouan, also known as Ndzuani, is the easternmost and most mountainous of the three inhabited Comorian islands, and the resort's position at the interface of plantation highlands and turquoise sea gives it an extraordinary natural setting.
The resort comprises a small number of spacious bungalows built from natural timber and local stone, each designed to blur the boundary between interior and exterior. Open-air bathrooms, private terraces, and unobstructed garden or sea views are standard features. Interiors are furnished in a style drawing from Swahili coastal tradition and French colonial influence — both historically embedded in Anjouan's culture. Air conditioning units supplement the trade winds throughout the year.
The pool area overlooks the ocean and is surrounded by tropical planting. A spa facility offers massage treatments using locally produced ylang-ylang essential oil, one of Comoros's signature exports and a key ingredient in several high-end international perfumes. A dedicated dive centre operates from the beach, offering guided dives to coral reef systems and PADI certification courses. Kayaking can be organised directly with staff for exploring the coastline and nearby fishing villages.
The in-house restaurant specialises in fresh seafood and Comorian cuisine, incorporating herbs and spices grown on the property's own grounds. Guests frequently cite the evening meals as a highlight of the stay. Breakfast is included in the room rate and served overlooking the beach.
Personalised spice plantation tours led by local agricultural workers are a signature activity, taking guests through the cultivation of ylang-ylang as well as cloves, cinnamon, and vanilla. These tours can be combined with village walks through Anjouan's rural communities. The resort accommodates a small number of guests at any given time, ensuring attentive, personalised service. Staff speak French and some English. Reservations are made directly with the property. The resort is accessible from Moroni via domestic flights to Ouani Airport on Anjouan followed by a resort transfer.
Amenities
- private beach
- pool
- spa
- restaurant
- bar
- dive centre
- kayaks
- spice tours
- free WiFi
- air conditioning
Visit / Book / Contact
- Phone: +269 771 6500
Location
Bandrani, north coast Anjouan, Comoros
-12.1420, 44.4130 — View on map
Highlights
- Private beach on Anjouan's north coast flanked by ylang-ylang and spice plantations
- Guided spice plantation tours through clove, ylang-ylang, and vanilla cultivation
- Boutique bungalows with open-air bathrooms and private garden or ocean terraces
- On-site dive centre with reef diving and PADI certification in the Indian Ocean
- Spa treatments using locally produced ylang-ylang essential oil
Tips
- Book spice tours at check-in as availability depends on the plantation schedule and weather conditions
- Dive site visibility is best between April and October during dry season conditions
- Request a beach-facing bungalow when reserving — specify the preference clearly as garden-facing rooms are quieter
- Carry some Comorian francs for tips and small purchases in nearby fishing villages
- Anjouan's roads are mountainous; the resort can arrange reliable vehicle and driver hire for island excursions
FAQ
How is Ylang Beach Resort reached from Moroni?
The resort is accessible via domestic flights on APCM to Ouani Airport on Anjouan, followed by a taxi or resort transfer to Bandrani on the northern coast. The flight takes approximately 25 minutes.
Is the resort suitable for non-divers?
Yes. Snorkelling equipment is available, and kayaking, spice plantation tours, and beach relaxation are fully available to non-diving guests.
Does the resort have a swimming pool?
An outdoor swimming pool overlooking the Indian Ocean is available for all guests and forms a central feature of the property's communal spaces.
Is Ylang Beach Resort suitable for families with children?
The resort is best suited to adults and couples seeking a quiet, nature-focused retreat. Families with children should enquire directly about available facilities and suitability before booking.
Accessibility
The bungalows involve steps and uneven natural terrain between structures, making the resort challenging for wheelchair users or guests with significant mobility limitations. There is no dedicated accessibility infrastructure. Guests with specific requirements should contact the property directly before booking.
When to visit
April to October offers the clearest diving conditions and driest weather on Anjouan's northern coast. Spice harvest seasons in late autumn can add additional depth to plantation tour visits.