Dar Saidane- “Ailes d’hirondelle”

guest house full of character in a rural environment, on the Raf Raf beach, 60 km from Tunis, suitable for a relaxing stay far away from the beaten track and ideal for an event, elaboration of a creative project, artistic and other activities. Dar Saidane – “Ailes d’Hirondelle” (Wings of a Swallow) is approx. 4 km from Raf Raf Centre, on the El Hmari beach, a small rural village inhabited mainly by peasant farmers and fishermen, often both at the same time, at the end of a small road winding along the beach, close to a pine forest, between the mountain and the sea. The name “Ailes d’Hirondelles”, “Jnah Khotifa” in Arabic, was adopted in reference to this small tile, 12cm/12cm, in black and white, or rather a black aubergine and beige rose hue, which are found in their thousands and which, because of their simplicity, make it possible to create an infinite combination of motifs. A lot of ancient materials have been used for building purposes and bear witness to the generosity and know-how of the Tunisian artisans and to this melting-pot of the families of different religions and origins who for so many centuries have lived in symbiosis and osmosis which have worked so well: -Wooden doors in different styles, either studded or with sculptured panels -Wrought iron windows in different styles and reflecting different epochs. Decorative woodwork: “Bit Hajjem”, “Tej”, claustra, -Faience tiles from different epochs, Hispano-Moorish, Turkish and Italian styles, as well as art deco which are very important for decoration due to their diversity, approx. 70 models, in a limited number of colours, mostly ochre yellow, cobalt blue and black (dark aubergine), and of different sizes -Marble paving inside and kadhel (known as “blat” or farcha”)outside, -Columns and capitals made of “kadhel” stone, mostly in the “hafsi” style. All these materials stem from demolitions and were re-used for the renovation of the old town quarters of the medina. They were listed by the National Archeology Institute and are part of our heritage. We are proud to have given them this second chance of revival. Marie Charlotte & Moncef Saidane Cr. Photos: Rim Temimi & Moncef Saidane Bizerte and its old city and fishermen port (1 hour with car) Ichkeul Lake, natural zoologic park, classified as Humanity Heritage by UNESCO (2 hours with car) Testour, andalousian village with its famous clock from 17th century, the unic exemplary in the world with its spires revolving reverse (2 hours with car) One of the best beach site in Tunisia Trekking on the hill crest (EL Bunta) Swimming Pool Visit of interesting sites Artistic workshop We will be present all time to make stay of our guests easier The site, suitable for a relaxing stay far away from the beaten track, Fishing Fishermen with sweep-net Car or bus We can organise the transportation on demand 2 parking places in garage Parking on the street available We stay open to any suggestion