The magical shores of Ile Saint Marie can be seen from the Madagascan mainland from across the channel running between both islands. Long revered as a home to pirates in the 17th and 18th centuries, the quaint island now boasts the idyllic Princesse Bora Lodge & Spa—Madagascar’s answer to your castaway fantasies.
The inner part of Ile Saint Marie is a landscape of forest dotted by lemurs, orchids, clove trees, and cinnamon while its beaches invite sunbathers and its waters entertain swimmers, divers, and snorkelers. Humpback whales make annual migrations from the Arctic through the channel between Madagascar and Ile Saint Marie, making whale watching from the shores a definite possibility.
The lodge boasts 20 luxurious Villas, all displaying a delightful combination of Malagasy, creole, and French influences. With a wealth of water sports on offer, as well as complimentary use of kayaks, bicycles, and snorkel gear—guests will find plenty to do. Tour the island on 4X4 across its villages, forest, and mangroves. Visit nearby Ile Aux Nattes by pirogue and stop by the mysterious pirate cemetery.
- On an island just across from the Madagascan mainland
- Long thought to be the island where Libertalia—the pirate republic—was created centuries ago
- The island has its own lagoon and beaches, offering a host of water-based activities
- Dive packages are available through the lodge along with PADI certificate courses
- A quaint oxcart transports guests from the airport to the lodge
