Lodge du Chateau

Top choice in Gonder


Doing things its own way, this owner-managed spot next to the Royal Enclosure has the friendliest service in town, attention to detail and a real commitment to community involvement. The rooms are nicely decorated and have good mattresses, renovated bathrooms and Gonder's best breakfast served in a dining room–lounge perched high to make the best of the valley views.

Ask about its innovative local excursions. It also has a small book exchange and sells its own honey.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Gonder attractions

1. Royal Enclosure

0.07 MILES

The Gonder of yesteryear was a city of extreme brutality and immense wealth. Today the wealth and brutality are gone, but the memories linger in this…

2. Ras Gimb

0.38 MILES

Though its early history is murky (it was likely built in the 17th century, though some say the 18th), this attractive palace once served as a retreat for…

3. Saturday Market

0.72 MILES

Originally the city’s weekly market, Kidame Gebya is now packed throughout the week, although Saturday remains the biggest day and Sunday is rather quiet…

4. Debre Berhan Selassie

0.75 MILES

Welcome to one of Ethiopia's most beautiful churches. Appealing as it is on the outside with its stone walls, arched doors and two-tiered thatch roof, it…

5. Fasiladas' Bath

1.11 MILES

Around 2km northwest of the piazza lies Fasiladas’ Bath, which has been attributed to both Fasiladas and Iyasu I. The large rectangular pool is overlooked…

6. Empress Mentewab’s Kuskuam Complex

2.19 MILES

It mightn't be as well-preserved as the Royal Enclosure, or as sacred as Debre Berhan Selassie, but what this royal compound, known as Kuskuam, lacks in…

7. Wolleka (Falasha Village)

2.43 MILES

Around 3km north of Gonder, several craft stalls with ‘Stars of David’ and ‘Falasha Village’ signs signal what’s really the former Falasha village of…

8. Church of Debre Sina

26.95 MILES

The most interesting relic of Gorgora’s former days as a short-lived capital is the attractive Debre Sina church. Built in 1608 by Emperor Susenyos’ son…