Travel: Lodge des Collines de Niassam

Lodge des Collines de Niassam [Senegal]

[Image credit: Lodge des Collines de Niassam, lagoon hut – The Senegal Experience]

Sandals got me dreaming of sun, sea and sand and so led me to this stunning image of Lodge des Collines de Niassam in Palmarin, Senegal; four hours from the vibrant capital Dakar. Senegal sits at Africa’s most westerly point on the Atlantic Ocean, and is a beautiful country with a diverse landscape; and although a country marked with a poignant past, it is today a place brimming with optimism. In a tranquil setting, the unique Lodge des Collines de Niassam captures the spirit of getting away from it all and was established in 2002 by Sylvie and Jean Pierre, who describe it as a magical place for dreamers (…me), gourmets and meditators. Surrounded by majestic baobabs, thirteen individually designed rooms make up the Lodge; each with private terraces to maximise spectacular sunrises and sunsets. You can choose from family rooms, traditionally styled earth huts, lagoon huts on stilts or if prefer nestle in a cabin entwined in the arms of the mighty baobab. 

[Image credits: Lodge des Collines de Nissaum – The Senegal Experience]

Unwind by taking a dip in the pool, swimming in the lagoon or if you are feeling a bit more energetic the ocean is a half hour’s walk away. Let birdsong serenade you while taking in the 360 degree views. Embracing natural produce, in the restaurant you will find cuisine using Bissap (an organic plant often used to make tea), fruit from the baobab, tamarind fruit and of course fresh fish bought from local fishermen’s catches of the day. Aware of the impact tourism can have on a place, the emphasis here is on living at one with nature and creating a sustainable environment for the Lodge and community in which it resides. Mindful of the effects on the environment the Lodge is run on solar power, providing a continuous supply of electricity aided with a wind turbine to allow for energy at night during windy periods. Recycling from kitchen to water waste is in place. Rooms are designed to invite the outside in and vice versa, blurring the lines between interior and exterior to create harmony. The owners participate in fairly trading with the local community members who supply produce; and handicrafts are sold commission-free in the Lodge’s shop. Guides come from the local village and bring with them their knowledge of the area, traditions and customs and guests are encouraged to participate in responsible eco-tourism, with opportunities to get involved, experiencing local life as well as the ecological initiatives. 

[Image credit: Lodge des Collines de Nissaum – The Senegal Experience]

.. naturally bliss.

Additional Details:
Rates shown on the website range from: € 65-€ 90 per person per night
Children rates: under threes free, € 30-€ 50 depending on age
For further information visit: www.niassam.com