Kenza

I have spent a night with my wife and 15 years old daughter in the Kenza hotel in Chenini during a recent trip to Tunisia. The big plus for this hotel is its location: it is right at the historical village, and as I understand it is just one out of 2 or 3 small hotels that operate in that place. The rooms are caved into the mountain as every house in Chenini, and they are brand new and beautiful. A couple of things to consider: there are quite a few stairs to arrive at the location – one might plan on bringing just a smaller bag for the night there while leaving the rest of the luggage locked in the vehicle down below. Also, one has to understand that the location is mostly visited for the historical ruins in the area, so that there are not real options for dining – you will want to have it all arranged for you in the hotel. The owner is there serving the guests and all employees were outstanding in their willingness to support our needs. Overall, it was a fantastic experience and I would definitely recommend for individuals willing to know up close how the locals used to live (and some still do!) in the Chenini area.

A cool stay in a rustic environment. We were worried about the heat (105F!) but the caves maintain a nice consistent temperature. Room #3 has a main room with two single beds that serve as couches and an unreliable coffee table. There is a tiny room with a single bed and no door and a bedroom with a double bed and a very low ceiling (maybe 4.5'?). There are no windows, but we just left the front door open all the time. One wall switch with one outlet in each room. Mattresses on stone slabs are surprisingly comfortable. But, this is not a luxurious stay by any means. Several patio areas with some seating and absolutely stunning views! The location is fabulous and the best part of the stay. Breakfast and dinner are served in the restaurant. It's a steep, 5-minute climb back up to where the rooms are, with lots of steps and uneven stones. Not for the unsteady or anyone without a basic level of fitness. Climb up on top of the rooms and you will find that at some point they have made what appears to be a swimming pool! This would be a fantastic addition if it's ever filled. Dinner is 30 dinars per person, pretty good and pretty much the only option. There is a restaurant at the bottom of the hill, but we did not check it out. Take a walk laterally across to the cafe near the white mosque for a great cup of coffee and fantastic breezes and cool views of the other side. Walk by the shopkeepers and duck under the blue bar to explore the ruins of the troglodyte dwellings. So cool! Overall, a simple, rustic stay (better than camping) high on a hill with stunning views.