L’Heure Bleue Hotel on Plage de Madirokely in Nosy Be, Madagascar

Miles Willis
10 minutes ago
5 min read

L’Heure Bleue – Nosy Be’s Hidden Gem for Families at Plage de Madirokely

If you’re dreaming of a relaxed island escape where barefoot luxury meets authentic Malagasy charm, L’Heure Bleue Hotel on Plage de Madirokely in Nosy Be, Madagascar is one of those rare places that feels both exclusive and genuinely welcoming. Tucked away on a serene cove overlooking the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, this boutique eco-resort blends sustainable design with warm hospitality – a perfect match for families seeking a memorable beach holiday that doesn’t break the bank.

A Prime Location: The Beating Heart of Nosy Be’s Coast

L’Heure Bleue enjoys one of the most privileged settings on Plage de Madirokely, just minutes from the vibrant village of Ambatoloaka. This stretch of coastline is Nosy Be’s liveliest yet still wonderfully laid-back. Here, you’ll find local restaurants, beach cafés, and small craft stalls right on your doorstep – ideal for families who want the freedom to explore safely without needing long transfers or taxis.

The hotel sits at the quieter end of Madirokely Beach, where the water is calm, clear, and perfect for swimming. It’s also close to Nosy Be’s main attractions: Lokobe Nature Reserve (home to lemurs and chameleons), Mont Passot viewpoint, and the tiny offshore islands of Nosy Tanikely and Nosy Sakatia, where some of Madagascar’s best snorkelling and diving can be found. For families who love nature, adventure, and beach relaxation all in one place, the location couldn’t be better.

A Boutique Resort with Timeless Island Character

Built in harmony with its natural surroundings, L’Heure Bleue combines tropical architecture and local craftsmanship with modern comforts. Its 17 rooms and bungalows are scattered amid lush gardens and elevated wooden walkways that overlook the beach and bay.

Families particularly love the spacious lodges and family bungalows, which sleep up to four and open onto shaded verandas with sweeping ocean views. The décor is rustic yet refined – think teak furniture, mosquito-netted beds, ceiling fans, and woven palm finishes that evoke Madagascar’s artisanal heritage.

The infinity pool, perched above the beach, is one of the most photographed on Nosy Be, offering panoramic views over Madirokely Bay. There’s also a smaller, shallower pool that’s perfect for children, making this a rare combination of romantic hideaway and family-friendly resort.

Why Families Love L’Heure Bleue

For families, L’Heure Bleue Hotel strikes that elusive balance between tranquility and accessibility. The property’s scale means you’re never lost in a crowd – the atmosphere is intimate, the staff know your name, and children are genuinely welcomed.

Here’s why parents rate it so highly:

Safe swimming beach: The lagoon in front of the hotel is calm, shallow, and ideal for kids to splash and snorkel safely.
Flexible meal options: The restaurant offers à-la-carte dining with both Malagasy and French-inspired dishes, and the chef happily adapts meals for children or picky eaters.
Spacious family lodges: Inter-leading options allow privacy for parents while keeping younger children close by.
Easy access to activities: From beach picnics to guided nature excursions, dolphin watching, and diving lessons, there’s something for every age group.
Relaxed, personal service: The small-team atmosphere ensures genuine hospitality rather than scripted resort routines.

The vibe here is unpretentious yet elegant – exactly the kind of authentic island experience that many families crave after years of cookie-cutter resorts.

Value for Money in Paradise

In a world where “luxury” often comes at a steep price, L’Heure Bleue stands out for its exceptional value. You’ll enjoy boutique comfort, a stunning beachfront location, and personal service at rates that are refreshingly affordable by Indian Ocean standards.

Rates are typically a fraction of those found in Mauritius or the Seychelles, yet the setting and experience are every bit as special. Families can choose from bed-and-breakfast, half-board, or full-board packages, giving flexibility to suit your budget and travel style.

The resort’s focus on sustainability – using local materials, solar energy, and community employment – also adds long-term value. Staying here supports the local economy while reducing environmental impact, something many conscious travellers increasingly appreciate.

What to Do Around Nosy Be

When you’re ready to explore, L’Heure Bleue’s concierge can arrange half- or full-day outings that immerse you in Madagascar’s natural beauty:

Snorkel or dive at Nosy Tanikely Marine Park, a protected reserve brimming with coral gardens and sea turtles.
Visit Lokobe Nature Reserve, one of the last sanctuaries of primary rainforest on Nosy Be, where lemurs and endemic species thrive.
Take a sunset cruise aboard a traditional pirogue, gliding past palm-lined shores with views of the setting sun over the Mozambique Channel.
Discover the Ylang-Ylang plantations, distilleries, and vanilla farms that give Nosy Be its nickname – “The Perfumed Island.”
Spend a lazy afternoon in Ambatoloaka village, sipping fresh coconuts, browsing local crafts, or joining a beach soccer game with the locals.

For families with teens, water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and scuba diving are available nearby. Younger children can enjoy shell collecting, swimming, or building sandcastles on the soft white beach.

Why Book Your Family Holiday with IslandStays

When planning a family holiday to Madagascar, IslandStays takes care of every detail so you can focus on enjoying your time together. With over 30 years of island travel expertise, we specialise in tailor-made Indian Ocean holidays designed specifically for South African families.

By booking with us, you benefit from:

Best-price family packages with flights, transfers, and accommodation combined
First-hand destination knowledge – we’ve personally visited L’Heure Bleue and can match your needs to the right room type
Expert advice on timing, flights, and activities to suit children and teens
Local support and peace of mind, from departure to return

Whether it’s your first family trip to Madagascar or your fifth island escape, IslandStays ensures a seamless, value-for-money experience that’s both adventurous and effortless.

Final Thoughts: An Island Escape with Heart

L’Heure Bleue Hotel, Nosy Be is that rare find – a boutique beachfront lodge that caters effortlessly to both couples and families, offering character, comfort, and unbeatable value. Its location on Plage de Madirokely puts you close to the island’s best beaches and excursions, while its relaxed, eco-friendly ethos lets you unwind completely in nature’s rhythm.

If you’re looking for a family holiday in Madagascar where turquoise lagoons meet warm smiles, L’Heure Bleue promises everything you need: tropical beauty, child-friendly simplicity, and a genuine sense of place.

Let IslandStays plan your Nosy Be family escape – because some islands are simply too special not to share.