Onsea House & Machweo Retreat

Since 2006, Onsea House has encapsulated the essence of luxury and tranquillity in the heart of Arusha, Tanzania located at Mferejini area along the Onsea Moivaro Road, Arusha. This establishment has evolved from a simple bed and breakfast into a symbol of charming comfort in a setting that’s both picturesque and unique. The design philosophy of Onsea House is deeply rooted in providing a more personal touch than a typical hotel, yet offering greater privacy than a lodge resort, making it the preferred choice for discerning travellers seeking both intimacy and indulgence.

The allure of Onsea House lies in its details. Each room is a testament to thoughtful design, melding African-colonial aesthetics with modern comforts. The rooms, adorned with four-poster beds draped in mosquito nets, are not just accommodations but havens where guests can feel at home away from home. The decor features rich, warm tones, with each room livened by daily fresh-cut flowers, creating an ambience that is both luxurious and inviting.

The adjacent Machweo Wellness Retreat, established in 2011, further elevates the experience. Here, every element is crafted to cater to those who appreciate the finer things in life. From the moment one steps into Machweo, there’s an immediate sense of escape from the everyday hustle. The retreat’s rooms, from the Honeymoon Suites to the Garden Cottage Suites, are designed with an eye for detail; the walls in soothing sand colours, the floors reflecting the same hue, and the furniture, tailor-made from wood, all contribute to an atmosphere of calm and luxury.

Location of Onsea and Machweo

Onsea House and Machweo are strategically located just 11 km from Arusha, a city known for being the gateway to the legendary Mount Kilimanjaro and various safari adventures. This proximity allows guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Tanzania, with the convenience of reaching Tarangire, Serengeti, and Mount Kilimanjaro within half a day. The serene environment is also only 43 km from Kilimanjaro International Airport, making it an ideal retreat for those looking to explore or unwind after their travels.

Facilities

The facilities at Onsea House and Machweo are extensive, and designed to offer a holistic experience:

• Outdoor Swimming Pool: Guests can take a refreshing dip while enjoying views of the surrounding landscapes.
• Wellness Centre: At Machweo, guests can indulge in a range of treatments including massages, steam baths, and yoga, all aimed at rejuvenating both body and soul.
• Culinary Excellence: Chef Axel Janssens leads a team that delivers an extraordinary dining experience, blending local Tanzanian flavors with French culinary techniques, ensuring each meal is a journey for the senses.
• Free WiFi: Available in select areas, keeping guests connected while they enjoy their stay.

Onsea House Country Inn

The most opulent bed and breakfast in Arusha is provided to visitors by the Onsea House concept. With more individualized attention than a hotel and more solitude than a lodge resort, we want our visitors to experience the kind of comfort and great food that is unmatched in other guesthouses. Onsea House is just the right size to make everyone feel valued and to make a lasting impact.
We have five elegantly furnished and tranquil apartments at Onsea House. There are two double suites and a family suite with views of the Meru Valley at this cosy and peaceful country inn, which is encircled by exquisitely designed gardens. Up to six people can comfortably stay in the nearby self-contained guest cottage, each of which has a private wooden balcony. Every room has an en suite bathroom with all the comforts of home, as well as four poster double queen-size beds with mosquito nets. With amenities including a hairdryer, bathrobes, a personal minibar, a safe, and fresh flowers every day, each room has a serene African-colonial vibe. Feel comfortable. Out of the house.

Onsea House offers five elegantly appointed rooms, each with its own charm:

• Double Suites: Two suites that overlook the Meru Valley, providing guests with tranquillity and breathtaking views. These suites come with en-suite bathrooms, personal mini-bars, and all the modern amenities one might need.
• Family Suite: This suite is designed for families or small groups, featuring two double rooms and one twin room, all with access to a private terrace. The suite includes a private garden, a relaxation area, and even a garden bathtub, creating a space that feels like a private villa.
• Guest Cottage: Ideal for larger groups, this self-contained cottage houses two sunny rooms with private wooden balconies offering garden and pool views. The cottage includes a shared terrace, a fully equipped living room and a kitchen, making it perfect for both short and long stays.

Machweo Wellness Retreat

We’ve established a haven of peace just outside of Arusha, far from the bustle and mayhem of the city. For people who appreciate the finer things in life, Machweo is a haven. After your safari trip, unwind in our magnificent gardens’ unparalleled tranquillity. Enjoy the luxury of your room, get a revitalizing massage, and take a refreshing plunge in our pool. Enjoy some of the most delectable cuisine you’ll ever taste, and our staff will treat you like a king or queen. Anticipate the same level of service as in the more upscale, smaller tented campgrounds.

Machweo takes luxury a step further with:

• Honeymoon Suites: Three suites designed for romance, with each room subtly decorated with African artefacts and equipped with private sitting areas to enjoy the views.
• Garden Cottage Suites: Six cottages, each a sanctuary of peace with private terraces for viewing Mt. Meru and the African sunset. These cottages are exquisitely furnished to provide the utmost comfort and tranquillity.

Restaurant and Wellness Retreat

The dining at Onsea House and Machweo is not just about food; it’s an event. Chef Axel Janssens, with his signature catering service, brings years of culinary expertise to the table. The menu reflects a fusion of African and European cuisines, with each course thoughtfully paired with wines from a carefully curated list. Meals can be enjoyed in multiple settings, from the spacious patio restaurant under the stars to more intimate indoor dining areas.

The wellness retreat at Machweo complements the culinary journey with a focus on rejuvenation:

• Sauna and Steam Bath: Guests can detoxify and relax in the sauna or steam room, which is designed to cleanse the skin, relax muscles, and refresh the mind.
• Spa Treatments: A variety of treatments are offered, tailored to boost energy levels, refresh the mind, and rejuvenate the body, ensuring guests leave feeling better, looking better, and sleeping better.

Onsea House and Machweo provide an unparalleled experience where each detail is curated to offer comfort, luxury, and a deep connection with the natural and cultural tapestry of Arusha. Whether it’s through the personalized service, the exquisite dining, or the holistic wellness programs, every aspect is designed to ensure a memorable and enriching stay.

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