Dar Bibine

Brand spanking new and chi-chi to boot, this 4-bed maison d'hotes on Djerba is packed with promise

This is what Djerba was missing – a seriously chic maison d'hotes. But as of June 2008, it's got one. Brilliantly white walls and cerulean blue doors impart a Greek island feel; the designer furnishings are straight off London’s Kings Road. It’s a bold design choice for this dusty village, where the locals travel by donkey and dress in long tunics, but the juxtaposition of the two is somehow cool.

Belgian owners Isabelle and Gérard spotted the ‘houch’ (ancient house) in Er Riadh's medina 2 years ago; since then they’ve been carefully restoring it to be just so. It’s been a true labour of love and today it’s beautifully spruced up with a tranquil roof terrace, a small indoor pool and 4 stylish bedrooms. Antonio Citterio (of The Bulgari in Milan) has helped with design; Philippe Starck dressing tables sit alongside Descamps bathrobes. If you’re looking for an indulgent retreat and an insight to the culture that surrounds you, book in while you can. We think it’s going to be a big hit.

Highs

• Perfect for less adventurous travellers who want the reassurance of a top-quality guesthouse
• Pure, minimalist design with Armani linens and Verner Panton furniture
• Isabelle and Gérard are keen for guests to understand the Tunisian way of life, and will give you cooking lessons and tell you about the Arabian culture
• Right on your doorstep, Er Riadh, is a fascinating village. Muslims and Jews live peacefully side by side and you can visit the world-famous El Ghriba synagogue
• Bicycles to borrow or private tours of the mosques arranged (although non-Muslims may not be allowed inside)

Lows

• You're 7km from Djerba's capital Houmt Souk and 10km from the coast, but taxis are cheap and plentiful
• Women may get unwelcome attention from local men - dressing conservatively is a must
• There’s no restaurant, although lunches and dinners are available on request
• It can be noisy in summer (wedding season), but you'll probably be invited to take part in the celebrations!