Dakar for The Slow Weekenders: a Friday-to-Monday weekend
Atlantic light, Gorée's ferry, and a city that dances at midnight.
The weekend as rest. A hotel worth staying in, a hammam or a thermal bath, one unhurried sight each day, lunches that run into the afternoon, and early nights.
Friday: Arrive and unwind
- Corniche Ouest
A gentle stroll on the sea road as the light turns gold, with benches along the way.
- Mosquée de la Divinité
Sit on the rocks and watch the sun go down over the white mosque in the surf; it is peaceful and free.
- Le Lagon 1
An easy dinner of grilled fish on the pier, over the water; it is not rushed and the staff do not hover.
Saturday: A spa and a long lunch
- Terrou-Bi Spa
A massage and a hammam session at the Terrou-Bi resort, with a pool to float in afterwards; book a morning slot.
- Terrou-Bi
A long, unhurried lunch on the terrace overlooking the sea, with a salad and grilled fish.
- Village des Arts de Dakar
Browse the artists' studios at the Village des Arts at a slow pace; nobody pushes you to buy.
Sunday: Gorée at leisure
- Gorée ferry
The twenty-minute crossing sets the pace for the day; the island has no cars and nothing to rush for.
- Chevalier de Boufflers
Take a long lunch in the courtyard, fish and rice and a slow coffee afterwards.
- Fort d'Estrées
Climb gently up to the battery for the view back to Dakar, and take the evening ferry home.
Monday: Slow exit
- Café de Rome
A late, calm breakfast of coffee and croissants before heading to the airport.
- Place de l'Indépendance
Walk once around the square in the shade and call it a weekend.