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Le Paradisier is built above the southern beach of Ifaty, around ten minutes from the village.

The lodge has been carefully designed to make the most of the landscape around it. The incredible spiny forest plants line the stone pathways, the main restaurant has floor-to-ceiling windows to take in the views, and the infinity pool drops off into the ocean.

There are 20 luxury rooms and one suite, all facing the water. The ten original rooms are built in stone rondavels, with double bedrooms on the ground floor and a mezzanine level with a small balcony above. The bathrooms are tucked away at the back, while each room has a small terrace in front. Ten newer rooms have also been added to these.

They are decorated very much in the same style, with thick stone walls, polished palisander wood floors and thatched roofs. Rather than being in individual bungalows the new rooms have been built in pairs. Downstairs is the bathroom and a sitting room with a daybed, while upstairs is a light and airy room containing nothing but a bed and a small desk. Windows cover three sides of the bedroom, so the views are spectacular, though it can be a little drafty in the winter months.

The suite sits lower down than the standard rooms, right on the beach, and is easily large enough to sleep four. There is a sitting area with two twin beds, as well as a double bed (complete with mirror hanging from the ceiling above it).

There is plenty to do at Le Paradisier, aside from the pool, mountain bikes and snorkeling kits are available, and a masseuse is always on hand. The hotel can also help organize visits to the spiny forest, diving, fishing and riding.

OUR RATING: Medium