The island of Jerba
A little slice of the Sahara in the Mediterranean, where the beaches are guaranteed golden and the hotels are among the most sybaritic in Tunisia
This is a true desert island, complete with a million palm trees. It has been pleasing those in search of the ultimate laid-back seaside idyll since the days Homer wrote his Odyssey. Jerba, it’s believed, was the inspiration for the mythical lotus-eaters’ land which almost seduced Ulysses into staying forever. You’ll find it hard to tear yourself away from Jerba too.
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The island gets better and better at catering for tourists. The full range of water sports is a given and luxurious spa treats, available at two of our hotels, are offered in thalassotherapy centres as well-equipped as any in the world. Wherever you choose to stay will be within easy reach of the championship golf course designed by Martin Hawtree.
For shopping, the small island capital of Houmt Souk is a delight. With its white Moorish buildings, intimate squares, cafe tables shaded by orange trees, and lanes packed with craft and antique shops (don’t miss Ben Ghorbal’s), it has the atmosphere of an Andalusian village. There are good eating places like the fresh blue-and-white Restaurant de l’Ile in the centre of town, or Princess Haroun, near the 13th-century fort by the harbour, where fish landed a few yards away figures large on the menu. In the market place, colourful local ceramics pull the crowds and no-one should be without the distinctive sharp-edged Jerba straw hat – local women wear it on top of shawl-like scarves, the men over their white skull-caps.
Hiring a moke or a horse-drawn calèche is the fun way to get about. Taxis are also very good value, even to visit sleepy Berber villages in the island’s interior. Places such as Midoun and Erriadh each have their own small markets selling handwoven rugs, terracotta pots, spices, copper or brassware and the gentlemannered Berbers are a pleasure to meet. Not many Englishspeaking travellers have discovered Jerba, but those who do go are made particularly welcome. As little English is spoken, be prepared with your French phrase book and remember a smile works wonders. Bargaining can be hilarious if your French isn’t up to scratch and both parties have to resort to sign language – but business can always be done. Jerbans are expert traders. If, unlike Ulysses, you need more stimulation than Jerba itself offers, easy access to the mainland means you can explore further afield either on your own or via a range of excursions.
Plus a little desert magic
The perfect holiday is a week relaxing on Jerba added to our Sahara Adventure Tour. We can arrange this any time from September to May. Or stay in an air-conditioned tent in the tiny oasis of Ksar Ghilane surrounded by a sea of dunes. On the way, visit Berber troglodyte villages and a fortified granary.
Excursions
Full programme on arrival from our representative. These are just a few of the options:
Island Tour
Guided trip around Jerba island stopping at the Berber village of Guellala with its pottery centre, the Ghriba Synagogue, Houmt Souk and Folk Museum.
Half day: £20
Tataouine and Chenini
Visit to two very different Berber villages to the south on the mainland.
Full day: £30
Sea Trip
Sail to Flamingo Island for fun and fishing.
Full day: £30
Private Tours with English-speaking driver can be organised by your representative in the resort.
Booking Excursions
All excursions, which are subject to availability, must be booked on arrival and paid for in dinars. Prices are approximate. Full-day excursions include lunch.
