"Pros: A Warm Welcome and Culinary Bliss at La Belle du Sud, Rodrigues Island
Our stay at La Belle du Sud was nothing short of extraordinary. From the warm hospitality to the delicious, home-cooked meals, everything about our 10-day visit exceeded our expectations.
James and Dalilette, the hosts, were incredibly welcoming and generous. Dalilette, an active and energetic lady, often went fishing herself and occasionally brought in fresh octopus, which became the highlight of our evening meals. Every night, we were treated to a different, freshly prepared dish, always enough to feed four—no wonder we gained a good five kilos by the end of our stay! Breakfasts were equally delightful, with an ample spread that included fresh juices and a variety of items to start the day on the right note.
The property itself felt like a small, serene farm, with cattle, pigs (slaughtered once a year), hens, and even dogs. The dogs, just like the people of Rodrigues, were remarkably calm and didn’t bark—a reflection of the island’s tranquillity. The spacious accommodation offered two bedrooms and two bathrooms, providing more than enough room for us, making it fantastic value for money.
In terms of location, La Belle du Sud is close to one of Rodrigues’ prime surfing lagoons, making it a perfect spot for water sports enthusiasts. Despite being in the southeast, the island's small size means everything is just 20 to 30 minutes away by car, so getting around was never an issue.
As a thank-you for their incredible hospitality, we invited James, Dalilette, and their family to a small celebration on our last evening. We brought wine, beer, sweets, and chips for everyone, especially the grandchildren, who had a fantastic time playing both indoors and outdoors in the spacious property. It was a joyous way to express our gratitude and celebrate the wonderful time we had together.
Rodrigues itself is a slice of paradise—peaceful, unspoiled, and full of friendly, welcoming people." ~Well