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Madagascar Holidays Nosy Be Isle Aux Nattes.
Ile
aux Nattes Ile aux Nattes (pronounced "eal oh nut"), also known as Nosy Nato,
is a small but extremely beautiful tropical island (only 2 km in diameter) just
off the southern tip of Ile Sainte Marie. The only way to reach the island is
by lakana (traditional wooden canoes also known as a piroque) from Sainte Marie.
A number of lakanas are always on standby on the beach just south-west of the
airport runway and the trip across only takes about four minutes. During
low tide a reasonable good swimmer can swim across the narrow channel (about 300
meters) separating the two islands. Although very small - it can be explored on
foot in less than 3 hours - Ile aux Nattes has everything travel brochures are
made of. Unspoiled tropical beaches with fine white sand, coconut and other palm
trees scattered along the shore, and a turquoise lagoon protected by coral reefs
inhabited by a variety of exotic marine life. A well-known landmark is the Fanilo
Blevec lighthouse (picured at bottom of page), which, although not in use anymore,
is closed to the public. The
island has a fascinating biodiversity which includes trees such as breadfruit,
the hard-wooded Nanto (for which the island is named, according to one legend),
rare orchids and spice such as vanilla, cinnamon, clove and lemon. A small community
of ruffed lemurs (sifaka) had recently been re-introduced to the island and seems
to be thriving. One of the great things about Ile aux Nattes is that there are
absolutely no motor cars or any other forms of modern transport to invade your
sense of tranquility and peace. There
are only about 1 500 people who live on the island, most of which are fishermen.
In spite of their small population, they take pride in the fact that they have
a democratically elected president! Hotel La Petite Traversee is situated on its
northern tip. This proud establishment offers you the best in luxury island accommodation,
excellent food, great service and the best value for money.
THINGS TO DO & SEE: Go snorkeling in the lagoon or among the coral reefs (equipment
available from La Petite Traversee). Chill out on the beach (La Petite Traversee
has one of the most beautiful beaches imaginable literally on our doorstep). Try
to spot some of the famous humpback-whales which come to breed in the area during
July to September (pictured below-right). Explore the island by foot and discover
its rich biodiversity. Make sure to visit the lighthouse and the local cemetary.
Just take it easy and enjoy the peace and tranquility under the palm trees in
front of your chalet at La Petite Traversee. Go
scuba-diving and explore the incredible marine life at leisure (ask our staff
at La Petite Traversee for information on this). Go fly-fishing in the canal or
on the reefs or go fishing from a traditional lakana (tree-trunk canoe) with a
local fisherman. Jump on a lakana for a visit to nearby Sainte Marie where you
can see historical sites such as the pirate cemetery, more beautiful beaches,
the famous grottos and a local market, among many other things. Allow us to treat
you to some of the best seafood cuisine imaginable. Tear
away at fresh lobster (in season), calamari, various species of fish or even imported
beef while you enjoy the idyllic ambience of our restaurant on the beach. Enjoy
a sundowner while you watch paradise go to sleep from out on the deck at La Petite
Traversee. There
is nothing better than a tropical vacation to rejuvenate body, mind and soul.
Escaping to the Isle Sainte Marie is a magical experience and highly recommended
by all who have been fortunate enough to visit. At La Petite Traversee a
tranquil holiday is guaranteed. Far from the stresses of daily life, guests can
put their feet up and enjoy the benefits of island living. This little island
also has a rich history, as one of the original pirate islands. Our
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