Located off Sassandra, 210 kilometres West of Abidjan, is a Fanti fishermen village nestled in a small cove surrounded by tropical vegetation. Drewin (pronounced Drevin) is a must among surfers in Ivory Coast.
Driven by my passion for adventures off the beaten track, I embarked on a journey to this mythical place in the heart of the Ivorian coastline, also known as Turtle Bay.
The civil war that hit the country from 2002 to 2007 justifies the countless potholes that litter the last kilometres of track separating us from the old colonial town of Sassandra. It will take us a 6 hours drive in a g’baka (sort of local mini bus) from Grand-Lahou before reaching our final destination.
Past the curtains of lush and dense vegetation, the little cove is offered as a reward to the eyes of the amazed traveller.
On arrival, we are welcomed by Jules, manager of the Pacific Surf Camp (surprising name for a spot that’s located on the shores of the Atlantic) aka ‘’ Chez Jules ‘’ in a Back to the Roots atmosphere in the pure spirit of Alpha Blondy’s song.
With its few rudimentary yet clean bungalows made of African bamboo, this little Eden offers travellers a campsitelike accommodation much more different than the glitz and glamour of the many luxury lodges of the East Coast. In addition to the site, which is absolutely exceptional, Jules score points with his super caring team, its simple and generous food and reasonable prices.
The period of Harmattan, wind blowing from the North East that begins in November and produces magical effects on the waves of the Ivorian coast (glassy waves of high quality, 28°C waters and yet…very few people in the water!). Not to be missed, turtles hatching in May / June, hippos watching, canoe trips on the river, diving and spear fishing from November to
January. Surfboards available.
The African missioner • Photos Paul Anca
Contact details (preferably by text message):
– Jules : +225 26 32 531
– Cisco : +225 49 44 99 62
