Kissing the Mediterranean Sea, boutique hotel Maison Dedine is an oasis of calm on the north coast of Tunisia blending an eclectic mix of modern and traditional architecture and decor.
Named after its owner Nebil Sinaoul, Maison Dedine is a five-room, marble-floored mansion located so close to the sea that guests are serenaded to sleep by the rhythmic waves coming in from the Gulf of Tunis. The first-floor lounge, with floor-to-ceiling windows, offers panoramic views of the water and is adorned with comfortable armchairs, a sofa, and shelves filled with books on various subjects.
The hotel also features a large roof terrace that provides another stunning view, especially of the nearby harbor filled with yachts. The terrace is often used for hosting wedding receptions.
Maison Dedine, which was purchased by Nebil Sinaoul sixty years ago and underwent major renovations two years ago, is now exclusively for adult guests. The hotel attracts international visitors from countries such as Belgium and the United States. The service provided by the friendly house manager Sana is efficient and warm.
The interior of Maison Dedine is bright and uplifting, featuring a diverse range of furnishings. The walls are adorned with large-scale contemporary paintings and black and white photographs by Sabri ben Mlouka. Traditional wooden cabinets with mother-of-pearl marquetry, giant ceramic prayer beads, and fantasy sculptures by local artist Rym Karoui contribute to the unique decor of the hotel.
The guest rooms at Maison Dedine are spacious and comfortable. Each room has its own unique theme, such as the “Uncle” room, which features a full-length photograph of Nebil’s uncle on the door. The rooms include amenities such as tile and carpet flooring, built-in closets, comfortable seating areas, walk-in showers, and large-screen TVs.
A highlight of Maison Dedine is the private terrace accessible from the guest rooms. The terrace offers stunning views of the sea and a hillside adorned with cacti, agave, and aloe plants. It is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
Although Maison Dedine does not have its own restaurant, guests can request a private dining experience in advance. The hotel arranges for talented local chef Mohamed Arbi Jelassi to prepare a multi-course dinner for guests. The menu includes traditional Tunisian dishes such as spicy soups, grilled salads, briks (filo pastry pockets), and main dishes like tournedos, souris of lamb, and chicken with green pepper and blue cheese sauce. The meal is topped off with delightful desserts like assida and zrigua.
Breakfast at Maison Dedine is a delightful experience with a wide variety of options. Guests can enjoy various cheeses, cold cuts, fruit salad, homemade granola, eggs, salmon, pastries, and traditional Tunisian dishes. The accompaniments include five types of virgin olive oil, four different peppers, two salts, and four assorted honeys.
After breakfast, guests can relax in the cozy Bedouin-style room overlooking an infinity pool and the rolling waves of the Mediterranean Sea.
The hotel’s location provides easy access to sightseeing opportunities. The charming hill-top town of Sidi Bou Said, known for its restaurants, cafés, souvenir shops, and museums, is just a 15-minute walk away. The capital city of Tunis, with its bustling medina, is only a 20-minute drive from the hotel.
