When I read that Le Soleil de Boracay was steps away from Boracay’s White Beach, I envisioned a property with beach access. I was, however, proven wrong on a recent trip to the hotel. I discovered to my surprise that this hotel was situated right on the beach. In fact, my driver and I had to get off at an alley close by and make the rest of the journey (about a two minute walk) on foot, as motorised vehicles were not allowed on the beach.
Words: Chitra Santhinathan
One of the earliest properties on Station 2 (White Beach is split into three main zones, each named after disused boat stations), Le Soleil de Boracay opened in 1998 with just 22 rooms. Back then, the island was still a little known paradise, with fewer tourist arrivals. As word of the island’s beauty got out and Boracay began to welcome more visitors, the owners of the property decided to expand.
Two major renovations later, the property now features a total of 78 rooms ranging from deluxe units to two-bedroom suites. While the hotel is a beachfront property, only four rooms actually afford sea views. Unfortunate as this is, space is a premium commodity on Station 2, the busiest stretch of White Beach.
During the hotel’s most recent refurbishment exercise, meeting rooms overlooking the beach were converted into spacious bedrooms with balconies. With only four available, it is understandable why these quickly get booked up. While I must admit I usually prefer seaview rooms on beach getaways, my weekend abode – the superior deluxe – was not too shabby either.
Originally designed in the Mediterranean style, the hotel’s new look incorporates Filipino elements with bamboo fixtures, a vibrant colour palette and dark wood furnishings in the rooms. My room was a bright, tropical yellow, a hue that lifted my spirits the minute I stepped in. The tiled bathroom was functional, though I wish it could have been a little larger. I did, however, appreciate the little patch of greenery outside my ground-floor bedroom. It was lovely to sit in the patio with a book, shaded from the afternoon heat and yet be able to enjoy the breeze.
Steps away from my room, the swimming pool buzzed with activity throughout the day. Though the sea was literally at our doorstep, I found that guests still enjoyed hanging out at the pool; kids splashed away and adults perfected their tans on sun loungers. The poolside cabanas are also where massage therapists provide relaxing treatments designed to soothe sore limbs. I must say the therapists, from a local massage centre, worked wonders to relieve the tension in my back during my afternoon session.
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At Le Soleil, the sole dining option is its Beach Café, a cosy beachfront nook, which specialises in bountiful barbeque dinners. At sunset, tables are set up right on the beach and guests can dine al fresco. The restaurant also serves a la carte dishes, including specialties like chicken inasal (spit-roasted chicken served with a vinegar and soy dipping sauce) and beef steak Pinoy (beef tenderloin marinated in soy sauce and calamansi, served with braised onions, steamed rice and pickled papaya). The extensive menu also includes popular favourites like chicken teriyaki, Caesar’s salad, fish and chips, and ham and cheese sandwiches.
After a sumptuous dinner, I decided to explore White Beach, for which Le Soleil is perfectly positioned. Bars and restaurants are located on either side of the hotel and just about 50 metres from Le Soleil (in the direction of Station 1) is D’Mall, a popular pedestrian mall with more bars, restaurants and plenty of shopping options. Another plus, are the musicians who perform along Station 2’s sandy beach walk. Because of the hotel’s proximity to the area’s entertainment outlets, there’s no fear of having too far to walk after imbibing one too many San Miguels.
If you prefer to base yourself in the heart of the action, Le Soleil de Boracay is definitely an affordable option on Station 2. It offers cosy and comfortable accommodation and, more importantly, its welcoming staff will make you feel right at home.
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LE SOLEIL DE BORACAY
Address: Station 2, Balabag, Boracay Island
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