We visited Sandele Eco-Retreat in November 2010.

We found it very peaceful and tranquil. Because the resort is far away from the beaten track it only sounds like a cliché but it is not. The miles long beach was deserted but for us and birds. The forest shielding the beach from the mainland was timing with birds. Walking along that beach you will see dozens of species of birds, butterflies, dragonflies, crabs, lizards.
And if you are willing to experience the morning chorus only 10 minutes walk towards the Kartoong village will take you to disused sand mines now filled with water. Within 50 minutes time we saw 5 different kingfishers, including a Pigmy and a Giant, a cluster of weavers and over 30 other species. It was a real parting treat.

The accommodation was very comfortable and luxurious. Sandele is not a part of any international hotel chains’ therefore slightly different criteria of luxury apply. We have faced occasional loss of power or lack of air-conditioning but we never complained about customer service, cleanliness of lodges, tidiness of the grounds or quality of furnishings.

The staff and the owners’ were ready and willing to help and assist:
• They arranged a dinner under the stars by locating a table and chairs on the sun roof of one of the lodges (no mean fit)
• Lunch was served on the beach
• A 6am breakfast was served and cooked by still a bit sleepy but smiling staff
• A transportation and guide hire was organised for us as and when we needed it (it cost us around 1000 – 1500 Dalasi a day)

The food was of good quality. The menu missed out on local cuisine but we did experience familiar European flavours cooked perfectly by local chefs.

It is definitely a place to come back too.

I went there with a group of friends and stayed on the cheapest rooms. I don't think it was particularly expensive but also didn't think the rooms were particularly nice.

Having said that, the beach is fantastic and quiet and the food was delicious, I really enjoyed my stay.
I also appreciated all the effort in keeping it ecological and sustainable.

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