The Home Residence, Nosy Be, Madagascar

Miles Willis
17 minutes ago
4 min read

The Home Residence – Your Private Escape on Nosy Be, Madagascar

Madagascar is often described as one of the last great frontiers of travel. From its unique wildlife to its vibrant culture and breathtaking beaches, it is a destination unlike any other. Just off Madagascar’s northwestern coast lies Nosy Be, the island of perfumes, known for its ylang-ylang plantations, turquoise seas, and colourful coral reefs. For those who want to experience this tropical paradise in the comfort of a private villa setting, The Home Residence offers an unbeatable mix of space, seclusion, and authentic Malagasy charm.

This boutique collection of villas is ideal for travellers seeking a more independent stay without sacrificing comfort, service, or proximity to the island’s best attractions.

A Villa by the Sea

The Home Residence is set on the peaceful western coast of Nosy Be, directly along a quiet stretch of beach. Instead of traditional hotel rooms, guests stay in spacious, fully equipped villas, each designed with a blend of modern comforts and Malagasy architecture.

Imagine waking up in your own private villa, stepping onto your terrace, and sipping coffee while gazing out over the Mozambique Channel. Villas are designed with open-plan living spaces, kitchens, and multiple bedrooms, making them perfect for families, groups of friends, or couples who want extra privacy. Many come with private pools and lush gardens, so you can enjoy a secluded retreat surrounded by nature.

The Freedom of Villa Living

One of the most appealing aspects of staying at The Home Residence is the flexibility it provides. Unlike a traditional resort with set meal times, you have the freedom to set your own pace. Cook a simple breakfast in your villa’s kitchen, arrange for a private chef to prepare a Malagasy-inspired seafood feast, or dine out at one of Nosy Be’s nearby restaurants.

This independence makes the residence especially attractive for families travelling with children, groups on longer stays, or anyone who wants the feeling of a home away from home in paradise.

Dining & Local Flavours

Guests can enjoy fresh ingredients from local markets, with vibrant fruits, vegetables, and seafood available daily. Nosy Be is famous for its lobsters, prawns, and fish, which are often grilled simply with garlic, lime, and local spices. The Home Residence team can help arrange grocery shopping or private dining experiences, bringing the flavours of Madagascar right to your villa.

There’s also the option to enjoy meals at nearby restaurants for a change of scenery. From French-influenced fine dining to casual beach bars serving rum cocktails and fresh coconuts, Nosy Be’s culinary scene has a little of everything.

Relaxation & Activities

While The Home Residence is designed for relaxation and privacy, there is no shortage of things to do. The beach right in front of the villas is ideal for peaceful swims or long barefoot walks at sunset. Kayaks and paddleboards are often available, allowing you to explore the calm waters at your own pace.

When you’re ready for adventure, the residence can arrange excursions across Nosy Be and the surrounding islands:

Ocean Adventures

Snorkelling & Diving: Nosy Be is one of Madagascar’s top marine destinations, with crystal-clear waters and reefs filled with tropical fish, turtles, and colourful corals.
Whale Shark Encounters: Between September and December, Nosy Be becomes a hotspot for whale sharks. Swimming alongside these gentle giants is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Island Hopping: Take a day trip to Nosy Komba for its traditional villages, or Nosy Tanikely, a marine reserve where snorkelling is spectacular.

Land Excursions

Lokobe Reserve: Explore Nosy Be’s last remaining rainforest, home to black lemurs, chameleons, and exotic birds.
Ylang-Ylang Plantations: Learn about the essential oil production that gives Nosy Be its nickname, the “Perfume Island.”
Hell-Ville & Local Villages: Discover bustling markets, colonial architecture, and the friendly Malagasy way of life.

Back at your villa, you might choose to book a massage, relax by your private pool, or sip sundowners as the sky turns shades of gold and crimson.

Perfect for Groups & Families

The Home Residence works especially well for families and groups of friends who want to stay together but still have space and privacy. Villas range from one to four bedrooms, so multi-generational families or groups of up to eight can be comfortably accommodated under one roof.

For incentive groups or celebrations, the residence can help arrange special events such as beachfront barbecues, private cocktail evenings, or even a Malagasy-themed dinner with music and dance.

Why Choose The Home Residence?

What sets The Home Residence apart from traditional resorts is its unique combination of independence and service. You can enjoy the privacy of your own villa but still have access to concierge assistance for excursions, transfers, and in-villa services.

It’s also one of the best options on Nosy Be for travellers who:

Want more space and privacy than a hotel room.
Prefer a flexible schedule rather than fixed dining times.
Are travelling as a family or group of friends.
Value a peaceful, home-like environment while still having access to the island’s highlights.

Getting There

Reaching The Home Residence is straightforward. International travellers fly into Antananarivo, Madagascar’s capital, then connect with a domestic flight to Fascene Airport on Nosy Be. From there, it’s a short drive (about 40 minutes) to the residence. Transfers can be arranged to make the journey seamless.

Best Time to Visit Nosy Be

April to December: Dry season, perfect for beach holidays, snorkelling, and outdoor excursions.
September to December: Best time for whale shark encounters and great diving conditions.
January to March: Rainy season; lush landscapes but higher rainfall and some limitations on excursions.

For a combination of sunny weather, calm seas, and great wildlife sightings, May to October is considered the sweet spot.

Final Thoughts

For travellers who dream of a holiday that feels both indulgent and personal, The Home Residence on Nosy Be is a perfect choice. It offers the comfort and privacy of a villa, the beauty of Madagascar’s west coast, and the flexibility to shape your days exactly as you wish.

Whether you spend your time diving into the Indian Ocean, exploring tropical forests, or simply unwinding by your pool with a rum cocktail, the experience is as much about freedom as it is about discovery.

Madagascar is a destination that lingers in the memory long after you’ve left. At The Home Residence, you’ll find the ideal balance of relaxation, adventure, and authentic Malagasy hospitality — making it a place you’ll want to return to again and again.