À Rodrigues, the Tekoma is one of the few upscale boutique hotels on the island.e. C hic but without the fuss. U ne night in this soft cocoon was enough to recharge my batteries.
Florence Guillemain
The wilderness surrounding the Tekoma is an invitation to reverie, as is the road leading to Anse Ally, seemingly plunging into the pool-blue lagoon, or, behind the hotel, the Wild West landscape of dry grasses and a few vacoas.
As I enter, the view of the sea is mesmerizing. A glass of fresh lime is offered as a welcome. As I’m ushered to my room, I discover a king-size four-poster bed stretching out in front of me. The bay window seems to invite me to join the dreamy beach just ahead. I push open the double wooden door to the dressing area and bathroom, which boasts a shower and two washbasins, as well as an outdoor bathtub! This little extra is a real luxury given Rodrigues’ water problems, but fortunately the Tekoma has its own desalination system. I decide to run myself a bath. What a delight to slip into the warm water! A moment of pure relaxation, with my head in the clouds.
Wearing my sneakers, I set off to explore the surrounding area along the sublime St François beach, which is almost deserted except for a few cows grazing here and there. Back at the hotel, I lie back on the comfortable mattresses on the beach to contemplate this unspoilt beauty. At aperitif time, a sega drum band comes to swing the guests to the sounds of their traditional music.
Chef Agathe Duvergé’s cuisine is a major asset at Tek restaurant, which is also open to outside customers. The chef from Rodrigues, who has been with us since the restaurant opened, has an uncanny talent for making the most of local produce. Innovative in the marriage of tastes and presentation, he offers, for example, ourite confite with seaweed, kokono with sea urchin bisque or crabe onze taches with coconut milk, combava, lemongrass and steamed vegetables, accompanied by a garlic sweet potato purée.
As I entered my room, I noticed that the sheets had been opened and that terrycloth slippers had been placed at the foot of my bed. What thoughtfulness on the part of the staff, who are always so attentive! It’s time to go and dream, lulled by the sound of the waves.
When I wake up in the morning, I appreciate the gentle sunshine that floods the panoramic view from the restaurant. The breakfast buffet is gargantuan and delicious. I decide to take a hike to the famous creeks of Trou d’Argent, after having spent such a pleasant time at Tekoma!
Tekoma Boutik hotel – Anse Ally – Rodrigues Island
