Villa Maguela

Top choice in Mauritania


Easily the nicest place around Nouâdhibou, nay, the nicest place on the entire Mauritanian coast. This simple mud-walled compound is set directly on a magnificent piece of rocky coastline around 8km north of the city. The room design and furnishings are comfortable, if basic, but the wind and lapping waves lulling you to sleep is magnificent.

Run by a lovely French couple who also design their own line of jewellery and furniture. Isabelle can prepare lovely breakfasts (UM2500) and more elaborate seafood dinners (UM7000) upon request. Best to make reservations in advance. Taxi drivers and other locals might know Maguela by the name Villa Moshin; it's immediately before the centre du pêche. There's no signage but its light maroon painted exterior walls are distinctive.


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