Really surprised to hear about the moaners on here. Sandele is a new resort, definitely not without it's growing pains. But to say that this place is overpriced is ridiculous. People seem to think that everything in Gambia should be cheap. But when you consider the surrounding beauty of this place, and the detail, care, and environmental concern that has gone into the rooms, the price is actually lower than what it should be. The beds are so comfortable, the food was good, and the beach was amazing. Show me one other eco-lodge that has a hot shower (by passive heating), and a decent compost toilet. This is a TRUE eco-lodge, and its luxury (which is difficult to responsibly supply) is really good. Don't hesitate!

I have visited Sandele Eco-Retreat three times now so you could say I'm hooked. It's very different to anywhere else I have ever stayed - the beach is unbelievable, massive and empty and the local village is worth a visit. However what sets Sandele apart is the ethos of the place, both the eco credentials and also how they are working with the local community to make improve the lives of local people. But even more importantly it just feels like a very friendly and relaxed place to be, and personally I loved meeting the volunteers who are working at Sandele and chatting over dinner. If you're after something original, beautiful, friendly and inspiring, then visit Sandele

This is a warm and welcoming resort where it would be difficult not to feel relaxed. The owners, Morris and Gerri make a point of speaking with the guests regularly (but not intrusively) to advise on possible activities and to ensure you are happy. This was very helpful and appreciated.

The rooms are very large and comfortable, and I believe, all have sea views, looking over what was once a quarry area that is slowly becoming naturalised again. The ingenious composting toilets work very effectively.

Your order for evening meal is taken during the late afternoon and prepared roughly in time for what you request. Presentation and taste is excellent!

The proximity to the extensive, and whilst we were there, empty beach is a real plus. We were able to walk for at least an hour both north and south seeing only a handful of folk, and a few cattle! Wonderful!

This is a work in progress, with the potential for a 5* exclusive resort, but is not there yet! There was no building work taking place whilst we were there, but incomplete and planned buildings were evident.

We'd recommend a visit to the nearby Reptile Farm conservation project and a bird watching trip in a dug out canoe on the nearby river bordering Senegal.

Beautiful beach, gorgeous setting, accommodation fabulous in construction.
BUT!
I'm afraid that I have to agree with the poor review by saxeldgmn and some!
Very very disappointed with quite a few aspects and unfortunately, no, the owners aren’t forthcoming in sorting problems or overseeing the 'hotel' side of the business. They ARE very very lovely people etc but they are not doing 'paying guests' any favours. As there are lots of 'free-staying' folk staying here, and any reader should bear this in mind when reading Sandele reviews on here!!
And unfortunately the number of free-stayers only added to the feeling of being ripped off, as I guess the paying guests subsidise the freebies?
A significant number of staff encountered were clearly unhappy, although very friendly and nice; it’s a vicious circle, unhappy staff=poorer service=disgruntled paying guests. Got hounded by some staff, including requests to leave them a big tip (1000 dalasi for each staff member was suggested!)
Accommodation not 'checked' by anyone, therefore attention to detail sadly lacking, as mentioned by the earlier reviewer and a lot more besides. If it was cheaper one might not be bothered (or when it's free, not bothered at all). It's very over-priced in terms of value for money and quality.
Interesting to find out that staff can recall no repeat guests, except the 'freebies' of course; and I'd go again if it was free instead of paying for the non-existent "sumptuous development” and "luxury" described on their site!
Sandele could be fabulous, and could offer something unique with a bit of work, and if the lovely owners looked at it through the eyes of paying guests.
Try this please M & G, you have a beautiful concept - depends which way you want it to go.