The hotel is situated in a mostly residential area of Hammamet town, just a few minutes walk away from the town centre and historic Medina. The new resort of Hammamet Sud with its modern multi storey hotels, marina and theme park is several miles away.

The hotel itself was formerly a grand private residence and this is evident in the very elegant public areas of the original building and its classical North African architecture. The hotel is however somewhat shabby and run down around the edges, as is much of the local area. Paint on the shutters and canopies was peeling and the decor in the bathrooms particularly was in need of updating. During our stay however, a lot of work was being done on the hotel and had we visited a little later on in the year I'm sure the hotel would have rated considerably higher.

The rooms are large and very comfortable and decorated in classical tunisian style with twin beds and a day bed, loads of wardrobe and storage space, minibar, tv (no english channel, only Arabic and French)and separate bathroom and toilet.

At the rear of the hotel is a very nice pool area with an ample terrace space and plenty of sun beds. The poolside grill serves lunches and soft drinks between 12.00 and 16.00 and you can choose to eat at open air tables overlooking the beach or in the enclosed garden area. In addition there is the cafe Maure also situated by the pool but this was closed during our stay.

Next to Cafe Maure is the spa with its small gym, hammam, sauna and massage room. The charges were very reasonable and we enjoyed over an hour in the hammam (turkish bath)for only 5 dinar (around £2) each.

Our stay was on a half board basis with breakfast and dinner included. The continental breakfast left quite a bit to be desired and the choice was very limited, consisting of 2 cereals, cake, baguettes, cheese, fruit and jams with the occasional addition of salami.

Dinner was in marked comparison absolutely fantastic. Served in the Gelimer restaurant below the sun terrace with its very comfortable and modern decor which would be at home in a high class European restaurant. There are comfrotable sofas and tables where you can enjoy drinks after dinner. The soft lighitng and furnishings gave it a very romantic feeling and there are large patio doors opening onto the private beach where you can eat during the summer months. The food itself consisted of a four course meal with Tunisian, French, seafood and international courses, all of which were immaculately presented and of excellent quality. The only downside being that each nights menu was set but each night was different and we never ate the same course twice.

Overall a very enjoyable stay with extremely friendly and helpful staff that realy made you feel at home. Very relaxing with an old world romantic charm.