Jardin Vanille is a small owner-run lodge lodge set into the hillside above the beach of Anjiabe on Nosy Kombo. You can only access the resort by boat from Nosy Be. It’s simple eco-friendly design makes you feel like you are in your own private garden of Eden. It is serious about minimising its impact on the natural environment, which is reflected in its simplicity.

There is a beach of fine sand below the hotel. Two coves along, there is another with a reef, so you can go snorkeling straight from the beach. With luck, you will have marine turtles for company.

The hotel can arrange excursions to the nearby marine island reserve of Nosy Tanikely, scuba diving and pirogue trips. It is noted for its deep-sea fishing, and you can also go fishing in a pirogue with some of the village fishermen. The walk through the forest, up the mountain, should not be missed.

You will find yourself welcome in the traditional village of Anjiabe, which reflects the relationship Herv and Clarita have forged with the village.

Children are welcome at Jardin Vanille. The hillside setting above the open sea requires that parents supervise small children. There are a lot of stairs from the beach to the main area and bungalows and they cannot be avoided.