Princesse Bora Lodge & Spa

Princesse Bora Lodge & Spa, Sainte-Marie Island

An Elegant Beachfront Haven Dedicated to Conservation

Princesse Bora Lodge & Spa is a charming boutique retreat that masterfully connects luxury with wild nature. Located on the southern tip of Sainte-Marie (Nosy Boraha), this Indian Ocean hideaway combines the simplicity of a South Pacific escape with the barefoot chicness of a high-end Caribbean hotel. Set within a lush coconut grove alongside a white-sand beach, it offers a refined yet authentically Malagasy experience for travelers who appreciate sustainable tourism and front-row seats to the region’s famous whale migrations.

Rooms & Accommodation

The resort features 20 private villas built using local stone, rosewood, and traditional thatch. The octagonal design is integrated into the natural landscape to ensure total privacy within a typically tropical environment.

• Charming Villas: These units offer island simplicity with a queen-sized bed, natural ventilation, and a private terrace with a hammock—ideal for couples seeking a tranquil garden setting.

• Luxury Villas: Larger and more elevated, these 55 m2 villas include air conditioning and a mezzanine level, making them the preferred choice for families.

• Executive Beach Villas: The flagship accommodations, these 90 m2 villas sit directly on the sand. They feature massive glass fronts for panoramic lagoon views, a king-sized bed, and a stunning stone bathtub.

• Modern Amenities: All villas come equipped with in-room safes and minibars (in executive and luxury units), blending rustic charm with modern convenience.

Dining & Atmosphere

The lodge is widely considered to have the premier culinary offering on the island, focusing on “ocean-to-table” freshness and artisanal quality.

• Beach Grill Restaurant: An open-air venue by the pool serving a fusion of French, Creole, and Malagasy flavors. Highlights include fresh-caught seafood and local zebu steaks.

• The Bar & Wine Cellar: A beautiful spot for sunset cocktails featuring local flavored rums. The property also boasts a unique underground stone wine cellar housing a curated global selection.

• The Pontoon: A long wooden jetty extending into the turquoise lagoon, featuring large bed-like loungers that are popular for both sunbathing and evening stargazing.

Facilities & Experience

Princesse Bora provides a comprehensive range of activities, from total relaxation in a “Zen” environment to high-adrenaline water sports.

• The Infinity Pool: A beautiful pool set into a large timber deck, surrounded by palm trees and overlooking the Indian Ocean.

• Jungle Spa: Tucked into the foliage, the spa offers aromatic massages and treatments using local essential oils like Ylang Ylang and Ravintsara.

• Water Sports: The on-site center provides snorkeling gear, kayaks, and traditional pirogues. It also coordinates with nearby PADI centers for wreck and night dives in the coral lagoon.

• Island Exploration: Guests can explore the island using the lodge’s bicycles or rent quads and motorbikes for guided tours of the lush interior.

Sustainability & Community

The lodge is a leader in environmental responsibility and works closely with marine conservation initiatives.

• Whale Watching Excellence: From July to September, the lodge serves as a hub for scientific whale-watching excursions. Guests can join expert eco-guides to observe humpback whales in a respectful, educational setting.

• Traditional Arrivals: To minimize fuel use and honor local culture, guests are greeted at the nearby airstrip by a traditional zebu-drawn ox cart for the five-minute transfer to the lodge.

• Eco-Infrastructure: The property utilizes solar energy and treats its own waste water, ensuring that the luxury experience does not come at the cost of the island’s fragile ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do we reach the lodge? The lodge is just five minutes from the Sainte-Marie airstrip. Your arrival begins with a memorable transfer via a traditional ox cart, providing an immediate connection to the island’s slow-paced charm.

What is the best time to visit? While the island is beautiful year-round, the peak season for whale watching is from July to late September. The weather is generally most pleasant between May and December.

Is there Wi-Fi available? Yes, Wi-Fi is available in the communal areas, allowing you to stay connected while enjoying your secluded hideaway.

Expert Insight

“Princesse Bora is more than a hotel; it’s a gateway to the soul of Sainte-Marie. There is a sense of space and professional service here that is unmatched on the East Coast. Because we pre-arrange your whale-watching excursions and private island tours, you can transition from your ox-cart arrival to the heart of the lagoon with ease.” — Aleem, Madagascar Specialist