Enrich your stay and experiences in this amazing destination mixing history, authenticity and wellness.
Discover the Dar warm hospitality
Tunisia is renowned as the wonderful northernmost country in Africa: fertile lands, a long strip of coast and boundless dunes of the Sahara desert. But Tunisia offers much more than this: white beaches and crystal clear sea and moreover , it is also a treasure trove of a millenary history between peoples and civilizations that have made this land spectacular.
Experience a stay in the “dar” is certainly the best way to feel fully immerse in the Tunisian magic atmosphere.
The Dar could be considered as boutique hotels built in the ancient town houses. “Dar” are born from the aesthetic union of the local tradition and the modern comforts: a new concept of hospitality that is very respectful of local history, to keep alive the artistic and cultural heritage.
Dar are located in the historic districts and in the medinas of the cities. Like the Moroccan equivalent “riads”, they have wonderful courtyards with hidden corners and decorated by local artisans. the doors flanking the courts are direct access to the streets and shops, to typical restaurants and, of course, to the markets.
Flat roofs are mostly terraces for common use and in modern dar, you can also find a small cafe. Most Tunisian dar offers bed-and-breakfast service, some also offer the option of home-cooked lunches and dinners or high-level Tunisian cuisine. Dar are scattered throughout Tunisia, from north to south and from the coast to mountain oases.
From the most rustic to the most chic there are different types of dar; the most glamorous – among shaded gardens and beautiful patios – they hide beautiful pools where you can relax in complete tranquility and privacy. HotelmyPassion suggest you some tips of dar to live the real Tunisia ‘mood style’:
Dar Ben Gacem, Tunis – Built in the 17th century, Dar Ber Gacem is a guesthouse in the heart of the Medina of Tunis, an UNESCO heritage sites. If the architecture keeps the Tunisian tradition alive, the interiors are furnished with modern unique pieces designed and built by local artisans and artists. Every corner is a piece of history: decorations, metals and sculptures that tell a population. Staying in this dar means preserving the Medina of Tunis: all income, at the behest of the entrepreneur and owner Leila Ben Gacem, is invested in socio-cultural projects and initiatives.
Dar Zyne La Médina, Tunis – New opening in the heart of the Medina of Tunis, Dar Zyne La Médina is a charming, recently renovated hotel featuring 4-rooms guesthouse that brings to life the atmosphere of the early 16th century. Dar Zyne La Médina is located near the most interesting sites of the city like Bab El Bhar – Porte de France, Dar Ben Abdallah Museum and Tourbet El Bey.
Dar Said, Sidi Bou Said – Romantic and charming, Sidi Bou Said is one of Tunisia’s favorite destinations both for its wonderful position on the Gulf of Tunis and for its colors: white houses with blue doors, colorful markets with spices and fabrics and traditional dishes. In order to live all that Sidi Bou Said has to offer, Dar Said is the perfect accommodation. Noble villa converted into a hotel, this dar has 24 suites decorated with local mosaics overlooking the sea. From the large courtyard you can access the relax area with hammam and outdoor pool.
Dar R’Bat, Nabeul – Nabeul is not only Cap Bon government headquarters but it is also, and above all, the largest center in Tunisia for the production of ceramics and one of the most glamorous places on the Tunisian coast. Dar R’Bat is just a few minutes from the Medina and the market: here where you can buy local hand-made pieces and see artisans at work. Valérie Domergue, Dar R’bat owner, has succeeded in uniting – between architecture, furnishings and services – past, present and future for a timeless place.
Dar El Gaied, Nabeul – A noble villa hidden in a large garden surrounded by high walls, it offers its guests an elegant, authentic and refined welcome. Recently renovated, it maintains its original structure but with the most modern comforts. Every corner reminds its rich history, part of the Tunisian tradition and identity. Dar El Gaied offers several units each one with its unique and delicate design. Dar El Gaied also offers a splendid swimming pool and a terrace where you can relax, kissed by the sun.
Dar Sabri, Nabeul – Four breathtaking suites close to Hammamet beaches. A perfect compromise for a short or a long stay. Arabian atmospheres and Tunisian tradition, all organized around a central patio – from which the hammam can be accessed – with vaulted ceilings and typical decorations. The first floor, where suites are located, leads to a splendid terrace that offers a fantastic view of Nabeul by the pool.
Dar Antonia, Sousse – For style and trends lovers, the Dar Antonia in Sousse is definitely the place to stay while traveling in Sousse. Furnished by French designer Philippe Xerri, Dar Antonia is located in one of the small streets that weave the medina of Sousse, also on the list of UNESCO sites such as Tunis. Four suites set in a small traditional building where you can find works of contemporary art, modern design furnishings along with unique and modern antiques. In addition to a small garden of tropical plants in every room, there is no lack of hammams and common lounge areas such as the characteristic courtyard or the splendid terrace.
Dar Baya, Sfax – A city where one can experience Tunisian contemporaneity, Sfax still has a very strong past. The Sfax medina is constantly being redeveloped: new openings and renovated ancient buildings represent this Tunisian reality in the development process. Dar Baya is one of the historic buildings of Sfax that Dr Naceur Ben Arab has transformed into a heritage hotel: 5 rustic and traditional guesthouses, a tropical courtyard, a rooftop with cafe and cocktail bar from which to admire some glimpses of the medina.
Dar Dhiafa, Djerba – Its name means house of welcome and is made up of some abandoned traditional buildings, later restored thus becoming one of the most faithful examples of restoration to local architectural codes. Staying at “Dar Dhiafa” means getting lost in the middle of an architectural labyrinth made of finely worked domes, open patios, shaded niches, green alcoves and bare arches. Everything has been designed and created to withstand the patina of time and exhale the know-how of the island’s artisans. It’s said that Baudelaire, at his time, stayed there and wrote: “There, everything is order and beauty, / Luxury, calm and pleasure!”
Dar Tozeur, Tozeur – Dar Tozeur is located in the maze of narrow streets of the Medina of Tozeur. It has all the characteristics of traditional houses and is built with sand and clay bricks. Around the building we find delightful shaded patios while the roof terrace offers a panoramic view of the city, the palm grove and the jugne view up to chott el Djerid. A stay here is an invitation to escape and refinement. The chef offers tasty dishes, served in the different areas of the house (roof terrace, garden, swimming pool, fireplace room), indoors, outdoors or even in the palm grove, according to your wishes.
Diar AbouHabibi, Tozeur – Surrounded by Tozeur Oasis nature, this dar combines comfort and tradition. Stilt-houses built on palm trees, each of the 17 lodges has a unique style. Constructed entirely in wood, Diar AbouHabibi integrates perfectly with the environment and life of the mainly agricultural Oasis, to which guests can take part: it is in fact possible to participate in the activities of the premises such as, for example, the cultivation and collection of citrus fruits. Materials, low consumption equipment, differentiated collection and water recovery contribute to respecting the environment.
Dar Hi Life, Nefta – Born from the collaboration between Matali Crasset, Patrick Elouarghi and Philippe Chapelet, the Dar Hi Life of Nefta is more than a hotel or a classic SPA: it is a place to experience, enjoy the spiritual benefits of thalassotherapy in the middle of the desert. Matali has created a citadel dedicated to wellness: a new concept of eco-retreat. A small village of elevated houses protected by walls that is all one with the surrounding landscape. Da Hi Life is entirely built in clay according to Tunisian artisan techniques. Common rooms and private rooms where you can meditate, rest or relax. All you have to do is take off your shoes, wear babouches and relax: you’ll feel right at home.
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