Inside Château le Marara: Rwanda's luxury hilltop hotel inspired by European castles #rwanda #RwOT

Unlike most hotels in Rwanda, Château le Marara is modelled after a European-style château, a type of grand architecture traditionally associated with royalty and nobility. These buildings, common across Europe between the 8th and 16th centuries, were fortified residences for kings and the elite, serving both as homes and places of governance, celebrations, and decision-making.

Examples of such historic châteaux include Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany, Château de Chenonceau in France, and Himeji Castle in Japan. While rare on the African continent, Rwanda now proudly hosts its own versionâ€"open not just for viewing, but also for overnight stays.

Upon entry, guests are welcomed into a display suite known as 'Fou de Toi,' named after the hit song by Element EleéeH, Ross Kana, and Bruce Melodie. The music video for the song, which has garnered over 24 million views on YouTube, prominently features the hotel during its construction phase, helping catapult Château le Marara into public awareness.

'The song played a huge role in promoting Château le Marara while it was still under construction. Many people learned about the hotel through that video," says Mucyo Solange, a manager at the hotel.

"This room is used to showcase what the other rooms look like. It's representative of the entire hotel's style, which is consistent throughout.'

From the walls and beds to the carpets, sofas, and curtains, every detail at Château le Marara reflects royal grandeur.

'Everything is inspired by the traditional château aesthetic. In France and other parts of Europe, châteaux were homes to kings and nobles. Similarly, in Rwanda, our own kings also lived in beautiful, distinguished settings. That's the inspiration behind our beds, chairs, and decorâ€"it's a tribute to royal living," Mucyo explains.

The dominant colour throughout the hotel is red, a deliberate design choice.

'Red is traditionally associated with royalty. Even at weddings, someone in a red gown always stands out,' she adds.

Each room in the hotel has a distinct name, some inspired by the hills of Karongi, others by themes of Rwandan royalty and love.

In total, the hotel features 21 rooms, plus a VIP suite. The ground floor has two rooms, the first floor six, the second floor seven, and the third floor, which is built within the rooftop space typical of many European châteaux, contains six rooms.

Among these is the VIP suite, which includes a private lounge area.

'It's like the other rooms but has exclusive features, such as a private sitting area and an additional room on the lower level," Mucyo notes.

The hotel also offers discounts for long stays.

'We offer flexibility. For guests staying multiple nights, especially those coming with family or for a honeymoon, we adjust the rates based on their agreement with management," the manager explains.

Another standout is the 'Le President' suite, described by Mucyo as the most luxurious room in the hotel.

'It's our best suite. The furniture, space, balcony view, and dressing area set it apart from the rest.'

Interest in the hotel has grown steadily, with many Rwandans reaching out for more information and making visits.

'Rwandans are curious and excited to see the place. They write to us, ask questions, and come to experience it themselves,' Mucyo shares.

Having a château-style hotel in Rwanda is a point of pride for her.

'It's a great honour. First, it adds to Rwanda's beauty and tourism appeal. But more than that, investing in your own country and building something appreciated both locally and internationally is deeply fulfilling.'

The hotel also works closely with the local community. Mucyo emphasises their commitment to sourcing from nearby residents:

'We buy locally, especially basic food items and supplies. Of course, there are some things we need to source from Kigali or even from abroad, but we make it a priority to work with the local community. We purchase goods from them and also create job opportunities.'

At $200 a night, Château le Marara offers more than just accommodation. It delivers a royal experience rooted in heritage, refined design, and the warmth of Rwandan hospitality.