Le Relais de la Reine

Discover Isalo National Park

Le Relais de la Reine is an oasis of over 40 hectares located close to Isalo, one of the best Madagascar National Parks. Set in lush gardens, the hotel offers you a beautiful stop for a relaxing moment in its stoned craft designed spacious bungalows. The hotel’s unique atmosphere is preserved while focusing on space, serenity and connecting with nature.

Le Relais de la Reine is an eco-friendly hotel with a bio farm which provides fresh local ingredients for delicious cuisine. As well as the National Park you can enjoy Isalo exclusive sports activities such as Via Ferrata and Horse Riding Club. There is a professional therapy centre for beauty care and massage alongside a choice of sports and leisure activities such as an outdoor pool and tennis.

Le Relais de la Reine – Hotel Summary

A legendary address in the south of Madagascar, Le Relais de la Reine is a beautiful stone-built lodge that harmonizes perfectly with the jagged sandstone outcrops of the Isalo Massif.

Located just outside the village of Ranohira, this hotel was one of the first to bring a sense of refined comfort to the rugged landscape of Isalo National Park. It is built from the same golden-hued stone as the surrounding mountains, making the architecture feel like a natural extension of the cliffs. Known for its quiet elegance and expansive private grounds, it offers a serene retreat for those looking to immerse themselves in the “Jurassic” atmosphere of the park.

The Property

The lodge is set within a sprawling private park, offering a sense of space and tranquility that is hard to match. The main building features high ceilings, open fireplaces for the cool desert nights, and a terrace that looks out over the majestic rock formations. A large swimming pool is tucked into the greenery, providing a cool oasis after a dusty day of trekking. For those looking for extra relaxation, the lodge also features its own stables and a massage center, emphasizing a slow and restorative pace of life.

The Rooms

The accommodation consists of charming stone bungalows connected by winding garden paths:

• Natural Design: Each room is constructed with local stone and wood, featuring high ceilings and traditional Malagasy decor that feels both rustic and sophisticated.

• Seclusion: The rooms are spaced generously apart, ensuring that your private terrace offers a quiet view of the gardens or the nearby massif.

• Comfort: While the design is grounded in nature, the rooms are fully equipped with modern en-suite bathrooms and comfortable furnishings designed for a restful stay in the heart of the desert.

Experiences

Le Relais de la Reine is ideally positioned to take advantage of both the national park and its own extensive private estate.

• Isalo Trekking: Set out with a guide to explore the canyons, natural swimming pools, and the unique flora of the national park.

• Horseback Riding: The lodge’s private stables allow guests to explore the surrounding plains and rock formations on horseback—a unique perspective of the Isalo landscape.

• The “Window of Isalo”: Enjoy a short drive to see the famous natural rock window at sunset, a classic Malagasy experience.

• The Piscine Naturelle: Hike to the famous natural pool, a lush oasis hidden deep within the dry sandstone canyons.

• Stargazing: Away from the lights of Ranohira, the lodge offers spectacular views of the Southern Hemisphere’s night sky.

Earth Trip Opinion: Le Relais de la Reine is a classic for a reason. It has a timeless, understated quality that makes you feel completely connected to the landscape. The ability to go horse riding through the sandstone rocks right from your doorstep adds a layer of adventure that is truly special. It is a wonderful, soul-soothing place to stay while exploring the wonders of Isalo.