A breath of fresh air at Yokan Lodge

In mid-February, I had the incredible opportunity to fly to Senegal for a few days in an exceptional hotel: The Yokan Lodge. As travel abroad has become increasingly rare over the past year, this one seemed even more precious and I was looking forward to discovering what I would soon call a little piece of paradise!

After a few hours of flight, I arrived at Dakar airport. The sun is at its zenith but the heat doesn’t have time to bother me as I am already on board the private car that takes me to the oasis of sweetness that is the Yokan Lodge. After two hours of driving on a rocky road, I arrive at my destination and instantly fall under the spell. The welcome is extraordinary! Smiling and caring, the team is taking good care of me so that I don’t have to worry about anything! The family spirit that reigns doesn’t make lie what I’ve read about the establishment, run by a family of hoteliers. Attentive without being obsequious, warm but respectful, this welcome immediately plunges me into an atmosphere conducive to calm and relaxation, after all, I’m here to enjoy!

The family spirit that characterises the place is reflected in the rooms of the property. I can see it as soon as I arrive in my suite which is absolutely sublime. Vast, secure, intimate and exclusive, it is composed of a magnificent bedroom, a pleasant sitting area and a large bathroom (special mention for the double shower), but above all an exceptional outdoor space.

As I slide out my bay window, I find myself on a terrace overlooking a private garden with a swimming pool, all protected from the sun by a canopy and a beautiful tree. A daybed, deckchairs and parasol complete this absolutely heavenly picture. In addition to their elegant furnishings and refined decoration, the hotel’s suites are the object of exceptional attention and attention to detail. I have noticed that my swimming pool is cleaned every morning and my room is cleaned twice a day so that I always find it in perfect condition. A dream come true!

While the accommodation itself is already great, the hotel’s cuisine has left its mark on me with its flavours and culinary identity. It’s quite simple: everything was absolutely delicious! Every day, a different menu is prepared according to the chef’s desires and the fresh products he has received. Tajines and yassa chicken mingle with more original creations such as spring rolls, quite unusual for the region, but just as tasty as the local dishes.

The restaurant also makes its own bread – I have fond memories of the home-made burgers they serve – and offers many more European dishes such as pasta alle vongole with a real taste of Italy. But if you want to immerse yourself completely in the African smells and flavours, go to the terrace for an exceptional « brunch-barbecue »!

In terms of activities, the Yokan does not demerit either! You will be able to practice horse riding, djembe or cooking but also take part in petanque, beach volleyball or badminton tournaments. The children also have their own little corners of paradise and you will easily recognise them; here a small colourful hut surrounded by colourful chairs and tables, there a shady and secure playground, and further still a sumptuous children’s club which will plunge them into the atmosphere of the bush while offering hours and hours of fun! As for me, I loved the spa, really beautiful, as well as the gym! Superbly well equipped, it allows you to do all types of workouts without fear of running out of equipment.

Once my session was over, I liked to end my day on one of the deckchairs on the private beach or in the shade of the parasol in my garden, quietly installed out of sight. The atmosphere in the hotel, so relaxed and friendly, invites you to let go!

If I had to remember one thing from this stay under the beautiful Senegalese sun, it would undoubtedly be the sweetness of life that reigns at the Yokan Lodge. If certain points can certainly be improved – I am thinking in particular of the Wi-Fi boxes that some might consider too rare in the hotel – the exclusive and soothing character of the establishment is far more important. Perfect for a solo digital detox, this unique hotel is perfectly suited to families and I am only waiting for one thing: to be able to return there with my daughters and let them discover this treasure!

Tenderly,

Charlotte