The Retreat is probably my first choice in terms of Kigali Hotels. As it has a little bit more character and life compared to the larger branded hotels such as the Serena or Marriott. It offers good-sized contemporary rooms with a minimalist feel to them. In the Superior rooms, there’s a lovely stylish bathroom with an indoor shower which leads out into the outdoor shower. This in turn leads out to a small courtyard garden with comfy chairs. All very charming and non-corporate!
The Retreat has Fusion restaurant as well as an attractive pool bar which opens out onto the pool terrace. I liked the food – tasty and well-presented. But it was rather pricey for what you got. But perhaps I am spoilt by the choices in Cape Town? However the setting is very charming with views down over the city lights. But I felt that they could have made more of this with a more interesting table decor (It was very plain). However I did like the fact that you could choose to eat at Fusion or at Heaven, which is the siste restaurant next door. It serves modern Rwandan dishes.
Talking of Heaven, you can also stay at the Heaven Residences which are on the other side of Heaven restaurant. These are more modest in price and style but still very pleasant with the same proximity to the two restaurants, with a very short walk to either.
