Relais de la Reine

CEDARBERG RATING

Premier

Overview

The three star Relais de la Reine lies on the southern boundary of the Isalo National Park in southern Madagascar. It lies hidden away in the granite boulders near the village of Ranohira. The new building, rebuilt after a fure, is now lighter and warmer in feel, though still using local stone to blend into its natural environment. The main lodge has a restaurant and bar and a lounge which enjoys a panoramic view over the Isalo massif as well as a terrace for lunch on sunny days. The thick granite walls cool the lodge in the hot summer months whilst fireplaces are needed inside for the cold winter evenings.

The hotel sits in extensive 40ha grounds and offers a swimming pool, massage room, tennis and an equestrian centre with horse-riding on offer (though not for beginners).

Location

From the lush gardens of the hotel, you can cross a stream and immediately you are in the savanna with similar scenery to that of the Isalo National Park but with no need to take a guide so you can enjoy a little contemplative solitude.

Relais de la Reine is about 20 minutes from Ranohira, 3 hours drive from Tulear and 4 hours from Fianarantsoa on the easy N7 route south to the dry coast of southern Madagascar.

At A Glance

  • Off the beaten track
  • Recommended for families
  • Swimming pool
  • Rural location
  • Spa
  • Walking Trail

Relais de la Reine on the map

Rooms

Rooms

Relais de la Reine has a total of 30 rooms - 11 double, 13 twin and 4 Triple. The five stone-crafted bungalows are set in the lush gardens filled with bougainvillea and scented jasmine. Each has six en suite rooms with wooden floors, sepia photos on the walls and its own veranda. Two of these are slightly larger with a sitting area and fireplace and baths instead of showers.