A small, boutique hotel with plenty of charm, set in Brufut with a beautiful tropical backdrop. Our experts have put together their top 5 reasons why you should book a stay here.
A charming hotel with beautiful surroundings, a wonderful place for couples to escape to.
Run by an Austrian couple, Nina and Alois who just happens to be fluent in English, and it is easy to tell how much love and attention to detail has gone into creating this fabulous boutique hotel. Nina and Alois first came to The Gambia in 2009, immediately falling in love with the country and its people. The following year, on their second trip, they bought the property that is now Leo’s Beach Hotel! You will see their influences throughout the property, from fun art pieces to a refreshing welcome drink of Wonjo or Baobab juice to revive you after your journey.
2. The beautiful location
The hotel is in Brufut, a quiet residential area, and is nestled atop a small cliff above the Atlantic Ocean with a peaceful stretch of beach below. From the stunning hotel grounds, complete with private massage area, you will find steps that lead you down to the beach. Once there, you will find a quiet stretch of pristine sand, mostly untouched by tourists. There are beach bars along the shore serving refreshments and light snacks, it is easy to spend an entire day unwinding before heading back for a delicious meal in the hotel restaurant.
3. There is a sense of exclusivity throughout the hotel
The hotel has only six rooms, creating an intimate atmosphere. Each room is finished to a high standard, featuring king-size beds, and the bathrooms have large walk-in showers. All standard rooms have a balcony with beautiful views across the gardens and out to the ocean beyond. The hotel is adult-only, further adding to the ‘exclusive’ feel, and you will be able to find tranquillity in every corner of the hotel.
4. The hotel has an eco-conscious mindset
The hotel itself was built using eco-friendly techniques. The owners worked with an architect to ensure that the plans for the building were sustainable. The hotel uses solar power for electricity and the water heating system, and despite the air-con use in the hottest months, solar power can cover most of the demand! All wooden furniture you will see in the hotel was crafted in local carpenters’ workshops, the SOS-Children's Village Training and Production Centre in Bakoteh is among them.
The restaurant has a mouth-watering menu with dishes made using locally-sourced produce; half board guests are able to eat à la carte. Each dish is presented to a high standard and there are plenty of choices, from salads to Courgette Carpaccio and Penne al Pesto to Grilled Tiger Prawns and Steak Tartare! There is something to suit all tastes. The restaurant is also open to a limited number of non-residents with hotel guests having priority, and each evening there is a fantastic atmosphere. With two open sides and a canopy above, it is the perfect way to enjoy a delicous meal on a balmy Gambian evening.
