Auberge de la Table, Toliara

An Oasis of Spiny Forest Serenity and Botanical Wonders

Situated 13 kilometers from Toliara along the southwest coast, Auberge de la Table welcomes you at the entrance of the impressive Arboretum d’Antsokay. This “living museum” of Madagascar’s southwestern flora provides a peaceful sanctuary where nature lovers can enjoy learning about the dry forest flora and fauna, making it an exceptional location for birdwatching. With nine comfortable bungalows nestled in a charming garden, the lodge features an outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant serving local cuisine and seafood on the terrace. Committed to sustainability, electricity is available 24 hours a day via solar panels, while hot water is provided through solar water heaters, offering a rare opportunity to stay in harmony with one of the island’s most diverse botanical havens.

Rooms & Accommodation

The lodge features a collection of nine individual bungalows, each designed to harmonize with the arid landscape of the spiny forest. Built with natural materials and thoughtful simplicity, they offer a cozy and authentic Highland-meets-Coastal atmosphere.

• Wooden Bungalows: Each bungalow is spacious and bright, featuring a large double bed (with an extra single available on request) and a private veranda that looks out over the lush greenery of the Arboretum.

• Eco-Conscious Comfort: To protect the delicate local environment, the lodge utilizes solar power for 24-hour electricity and solar water heaters for your showers. All rooms are equipped with mosquito nets and fans to ensure a restful night.

• Natural Serenity: Surrounded by nearly 1,000 species of endemic plants, the rooms offer an unparalleled sense of privacy and a front-row seat to the local birdlife and lemurs that frequent the gardens.

Dining

The lodge’s restaurant, The Dry Forest, is celebrated for its inventive use of local produce and its relaxed, open-air setting.

• Artisanal Flavors: The menu is a highlight for many travelers, featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients, local seafood, and the lodge’s famous homemade goat cheese.

• Lounge & Library: The communal lounge bar is a comfortable spot to enjoy a sundowner or a glass of local rum. Adjacent to the bar is a well-stocked library, perfect for learning more about the unique botany of the region.

• Starlit Dinners: Dining on the terrace as the sun sets over the “Table Mountain” (La Table) is a magical experience, with the lack of city lights providing a spectacular view of the southern stars.

Facilities & Experience

Auberge de la Table is more than just a place to sleep; it is a hub for discovery and relaxation in the deep south.

• Antsokay Arboretum: As a guest, you have direct access to the Arboretum’s trails. We highly recommend a night walk with one of the expert resident guides to spot the endemic grey-brown mouse lemurs and various rare reptiles.

• Swimming Pool: A beautiful outdoor pool provides a refreshing escape from the Toliara heat, surrounded by the unique silhouettes of baobabs and octopus trees.

• Expert Exploration: From the lodge, you can hike the nearby Table Mountain Trail for panoramic views of the Mozambique Channel or explore the Tsinjoriake Protected Area.

Sustainability & Community

Auberge de la Table is deeply committed to the conservation of Madagascar’s most endangered ecosystem.

• Botanical Conservation: By staying here, you directly support the Antsokay Arboretum’s mission to preserve and study the rare flora of the spiny forest.

• Green Energy: The lodge’s reliance on solar energy and natural well water minimizes its environmental footprint in this arid region.

• Educational Support: The onsite interpretation center provides valuable environmental education to both visitors and the local community, fostering a long-term commitment to conservation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are our excursions and local tours managed? To ensure the highest standard of service, Earth Trip pre-arranges all your activities. Your private vehicle and guide are dedicated to your journey, whether you are exploring the Arboretum d’Antsokay at night or hiking Table Mountain. We handle these details in advance so you can enjoy a seamless experience without needing to coordinate with the hotel’s local offerings.

How do we manage our arrival in Toliara? Earth Trip handles all your logistics. Your private driver will meet you at the Toliara airport (only 4 km away) or collect you at the end of your Route Nationale 7 journey. They will handle your luggage and provide a seamless transfer directly to the lodge’s peaceful gardens.

Is the lodge located on the beach? No, Auberge de la Table is located slightly inland within the botanical gardens. This unique setting offers a quieter, more nature-focused experience than the beachfront hotels. However, the coast is only a short 10-minute drive away, and we can easily incorporate beach visits into your stay.

Expert Insight

“Auberge de la Table is a true ‘insider’ secret. Most travelers just pass through Toliara, but staying here allows you to wake up inside one of the most remarkable botanical collections in the world. Because we pre-arrange your local activities and provide a dedicated driver, you can focus on spotting mouse lemurs and rare birds while we handle all the logistical fine points.” — Aleem, Madagascar Specialist