What We Think
Complimentary upgrade to extra legroom seats (subject to availability) for travel between June and September 2012, staying at Ngala Lodge only.
Ngala Lodge, situated between the resorts of Bakau and Fajara, is a small, intimate hotel which is very popular with repeat guests so early booking is recommended. As a child-free property, the tropical gardens remain peaceful throughout the day with ample space to find your own secluded spot. It is a fantastic choice for a romantic break and with one of the best restaurants in The Gambia, you’ll find it hard to leave.
The atmosphere at Ngala Lodge is extremely relaxed and friendly with very individual service; to help you unwind you can enjoy a massage or manicure in your suite or choose to have breakfast on your private balcony or terrace - nothing is too much trouble. The main building of Ngala Lodge was formally a colonial mansion and houses the 10 original suites over 2 floors and some with their own private garden area. Each is unique, extremely comfortable and spacious with many individual features and little touches, such as a small library of reading material in each suite, designed to make guests feel very much at home.
For something a little bit special we can offer a variety of upgraded suites including the penthouse with its private rooftop terrace with shower and skylight above the bed. The Manor encompasses four spacious 1-bedroom suites with sea views, and has its own gardens adjacent to the main Lodge with shared Jacuzzi. The Atlantic Suites are amongst the most stunning rooms in The Gambia and each has its own private Jacuzzi on the balcony or terrace. In total there are eighteen suites, all facing the ocean; all are air-conditioned and have fans and mosquito nets.
Within the grounds there are a number of sunbathing terraces, seating areas and traditional African bantabas (meeting places), which provide private hideaways for guests to enjoy a relaxing drink and a quiet book. The attractive gardens ensure a high degree of privacy with only a small number of guests in residence at any one time and make the most of the enviable location of Ngala, which enjoys a magnificent setting with stunning views looking out from its cliff-top position towards the ocean. There is also a swimming pool and small beach in an attractive cove which can be reached at low tide via steep steps – a great spot for fishing, a romantic stroll or soaking up the sun on the new raised decking, enjoying the sound of the waves hitting the golden sand.
In the evening, the elevated restaurant not only serves excellent food with daily specials inspired by its English chef, Jonathan Groves, but it also has wonderful views of the ocean at sunset. A la carte dining with an extensive menu is also available and low key entertainment, along with a weekly African night with dancers, create an inviting atmosphere. Due to the quality of food on offer, a high proportion of our clients choose to stay on a half board basis, which is a table d'hôte menu with the option to also eat à la carte (a small number of unique dishes will be at a supplement).
Ngala Lodge continues to deserve its well-established reputation with the public for high standards in service and cuisine with many expatriates choosing to dine there. It is a property that is extremely popular with returning guests and received the highest customer feedback scores of any Luxury Collection property in Winter 2010/11, which have improved once again in 2012 so, with such a small number of suites, it is advisable to book early.
Please note Ngala Lodge is for adults only and ideal for a romantic break. Due to the number of suites, requests for specific suites cannot be guaranteed. Ngala Lodge does not accept children under 16 years old unless the whole property is taken for a group or family.
