Excursions in Tunisia: Sidi Bou Said
The strong and consistent colours of the buildings, pure whites and blues complemented by the turquoise sea, are simply beautiful, while the narrow, winding cobbled streets all add to the charm of the village.
Sidi Bou Said
Tunis, Tunisia
Just around 25km from Tunis on the northern Mediterranean coast lies the coastal village of Sidi Bou Said.
The strong and consistent colours of the buildings, pure whites and blues complemented by the turquoise sea, are simply beautiful, while the narrow, winding cobbled streets all add to the charm. It is this iconic look that has made the town so popular with artists, particularly in the early part of the twentieth century, but in fact it was only on the initiative of one European resident of Sidi Bou Said, the Baron d’Erlanger, that the village adopted its uniform colours.
Today, the Baron’s Mansion is open to visitors, and the rooms are a testament to his considered taste, and offer a flavour of his artwork and music, as well as extravagant North African design. It is a wonderful way to experience the style of Sidi Bou Said. Another house – Dar Annabi – is also open, but while parts are of interest, not least the roof from which the panoramic views are exquisite, it lacks the elegance of the Baron’s home, and is often crowded with tourists.
The best way to enjoy a visit to Sidi Bou Said is to sample a mint tea with pignons (pine nuts) at one of its emblematic cafés – either the Café des Nattes, with a most traditional interior replete with cushions and shisha pipes looking upon the street into the heart of Sidi Bou Said, or the Café Sidi Chaabane, offering stunning views over the marina.
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