Gîte Chez Dany is one of the oldest and most welcoming places to stay in Grand Bassin — the hidden village you can only reach by foot. Run by Dany and his family, this gîte offers warm food, basic but comfortable rooms, and genuine Creole hospitality in a deep, green valley with no cars and no noise beyond the birds and the river.

What to expect:

• Simple rooms with shared or private bathrooms

• Traditional Creole dinners (cari poulet, lentils, rice, and seasonal sides) served family-style

• Packed lunch available if you’re continuing the hike out

• Stunning views over the valley, especially at sunrise

• No mobile signal, limited electricity — a proper digital detox

To get there, you hike down from Belvédère de Bois Court (approx. 2 hours down, 3–4 hours up). The path is well-marked but steep, with over 800 metres of elevation change. Strong shoes and water are essential.

👉 Local tip: Let Dany know your arrival time if you're not staying the night — they also serve hot lunches to day hikers (with advance notice).