Set on a serene peninsula overlooking the Bay of Hammamet, La Badira reimagines the timeless allure of the 1930s while offering contemporary luxury. The name Badira, meaning “as luminous as the full moon,” perfectly captures the essence of this adults-only retreat, where light and shadow play across elegant architecture and panoramic sea views. Inspired by Hammamet’s golden age, when artists and intellectuals flocked to this coastal town, La Badira is a tribute to beauty, simplicity, and serenity.

The design draws on Islamic architectural traditions, with arched terraces, domed ceilings, and columned walkways punctuated by reflective pools and olive trees. The clean, minimalist lines pay homage to the 1930s, when Hammamet emerged as a haven for European travellers enchanted by its light and landscape. Inside, a neutral palette of beige and white dominates, accentuated by geometric patterns and handcrafted ceramic panels featuring Arabic script. Every space feels intentional – modern yet rooted in tradition.

Rooms with a story to tell

The rooms and suites are sanctuaries of calm, each framing uninterrupted views of the sea. The Yasmine Suites combine spacious elegance with thoughtful details, offering king-sized or twin beds and expansive bathrooms where even the bath enjoys a partial sea view. For those craving even more space and privacy, the Legend Suites offer a refined retreat with private heated pools overlooking the Mediterranean and cosy fireplaces for cooler seasons. Each suite captures a story: the Jean Cocteau Suite evokes the creative vision of the 1950s, while the Wallis Simpson Suite pays homage to the Duchess of Windsor’s glamorous sophistication. Elsewhere, the Paul Klee Suite bursts with vibrant colours, celebrating the painter’s fascination with Hammamet’s light, and the August Macke Suite offers a nod to the artist’s abstract vision during his Tunisian journey in 1914.

A Taste of Tunisia, reimagined

Dining at La Badira celebrates the bounty of the region with a contemporary twist. Overlooking the bay, Kamilah offers Mediterranean dishes prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients, while the Adra restaurant reinvents Tunisian cuisine with a refined approach. The atmosphere reflects Tunisia’s elegant heritage, with sculpted ceilings and intricate details framing every meal. For a relaxed experience, the Beach Grill serves light, fresh fare by the sea, perfect for enjoying salads and grilled seafood while reclining on a sun lounger. In the mornings, the Zahila Terrace is a peaceful spot for breakfast, where local fruit preserves and freshly baked Tabouna bread complement the calm surroundings.

A Sanctuary of light and shadow

The heart of the hotel is its Spa by Clarins, a sanctuary of relaxation, features hammams, treatment rooms, a yoga space, and a semi-covered heated pool with a breathtaking sea view, the spa invites guests to experience serenity in its purest form. After a day of treatments, the Sunset Terrace becomes the perfect place to unwind with a drink, sinking into floor cushions as the sky turns gold and the Bay of Hammamet stretches toward the horizon.

A toast to the day

Evenings are equally atmospheric in the Lobby Bar, where guests sip cocktails or taste Tunisian sweets by the crackling fireplace. The space feels timeless, echoing the days when travellers would gather to share stories over drinks. From morning to night, every moment at La Badira is curated to offer a sense of calm and understated luxury.

Where past and present meet

For those drawn to Hammamet’s artistic and cultural past, La Badira captures the spirit of the town’s golden age. This is where artists like Paul Klee and August Macke sought inspiration from the region’s light, where Jean Cocteau found solace and creativity, and where modern travellers can now step into a world that feels both nostalgic and new. Whether relaxing in a sea-view suite, enjoying the refined flavours of Tunisian cuisine, or immersing yourself in the tranquility of the spa, La Badira offers a timeless escape that lingers long after you leave.