Le Relais de la Reine

Location: This charming hotel is located in Madagascar, next to the village of Ranohira, the gateway to Isalo National Park. 

How to get here: Despite its isolation, this ecolodge is easily accessible by Route Nationale 7, the main road in Madagascar, halfway between the towns of Fianaransoa and Toliara. There is also an airfield which make it easy to fly in.

Structure: The hotel an oasis of luxury and a great base to immerse in this unique beautiful landscape. The granite constructions merge with the sandstones of the rocks and lush vegetation of bougainvillea and jasmine that scents the air. The comfortable stone chalets are a real treat when travelling through Madagascar and combined with the swimming pool, offer a pleasant stop over when travelling down to the coast. The rooms have thick stone walls, polished palissandre wood floors and black-and-white photographs decorating the walls. Each room has a small terrace outside, as well as an en suite bathroom. In addition to the standard rooms there are also two luxury rooms, which have a sitting area with a fireplace and bathtubs for a long soak after a day in the park.

Why staying here: Activities in the area are numerous with stunning walks through the park, horse riding and even tennis available. Golden grass under your feet, rock massif on your back, green palm-trees in front of you, exotic lychee tree and intense purple jacaranda tree, endemic turtles – this is a beautiful place to explore. The pool provides a lovely spot for a cooling swim after a long days walk. The on-site spa offers massages, facials, scrubs and wraps, pampering up hikers who leave refreshed and relaxed.