Havre De Paix

The rooms were comfortable and clean, with everything needed for a lovely stay in Somone. We spent a week here and enjoyed every moment. The owners Stéphane & Isabelle and their staff were so welcoming and friendly, especially since we don't speak French. They made a real effort to answer our questions and organize trips to some of the area's highlights. We can definitely recommend the restaurant too, the quality was really good 👌

There's a lush courtyard with a lovely pool, flowers, birds to watch, and two friendly pet dogs. The owners were helpful and friendly, and the food and drink were high standard. Plenty of people seem to come just for lunch or dinner because the cuisine is so good. Everyone speaks French, with a little English, but that's true across Senegal as a former French colony.

On Christmas evening, my sister, our boyfriends and I spotted this beautiful place and thought we'd stop for a small drink. The Senegalese employees were very sweet and welcoming, and said we could. Upstairs at the cafe, we ordered drinks to take into the beautiful garden. Then a very angry French man, who I think was the owner, came over saying, "Non, non pas possible". He was having dinner with other French people at long tables, while the other half of the cafe was empty. In an angry tone, he said it was a special night. We quickly understood it wasn't special for us. We weren't allowed to stay, and without explaining more, he angrily rushed us all the way to the gate, where he left us in the dark. I understand that on a special night with reservations, you might not let people just walk in. But the way he treated us felt really condescending and belittling. I hope he treats others in a better mood. It's very ironic that we, weary travellers, weren't allowed into your auberge on Christmas evening... 😉. Maybe next week on New Year's Eve??

Our stay was short but delightful. A beautiful spot right on the beach, an exquisite room and bathroom, and very gracious hosts.