Review focused on lodging (parking, reception, lodge) – A second review will follow soon, focusing on the park itself and the on-site dining options.
Spending the night in a lodge at Sainte-Croix Wildlife Park is like stepping into another world — one where screens disappear and nature takes center stage. While not everything is perfect, the overall experience is deeply immersive, relaxing, and unlike any regular hotel night. Yes, it comes at a cost, but this is an experience everyone should live at least once, especially nature lovers and families seeking reconnection.
🅿️ Parking: Great Planning, Sabotaged by Inconsiderate Visitors
Prior to arrival, you’ll receive a detailed email explaining where to park depending on your type of stay. The instructions are clear and the organization is solid.
However, reality might be different. Several parking areas were already full upon arrival, mostly because visitors were parking carelessly, occupying two spaces instead of one. This is not the park’s fault, but rather due to a lack of civility.
A parking supervisor or clearer ground markings might help resolve this issue. After a few loops, we finally managed to find a spot.
🎟️ Reception: Warm One Day, Cold the Next
Our arrival was met with a warm, professional, and informative welcome. The first receptionist clearly explained everything, handed us maps, binoculars, and gave us tips for our stay.
The next morning, however, the atmosphere shifted. The new receptionist was cold, unhelpful, and seemed irritated by the simplest questions. This inconsistency impacted the overall impression and could easily be improved with staff training.
🛏️ The Lodge: No Wi-Fi, No TV — Just Wildlife
Our lodge, located right next to the black bear enclosure, was a true nature retreat. Comfortable bed, spotless bathroom, tasteful design, and wide glass windows for wildlife viewing — it felt cozy yet wild.
Important to know: there is no TV, no Wi-Fi — and that’s intentional. The aim is to disconnect completely, and it works beautifully. Trade screen time for stargazing, digital noise for howling coyotes and frog concerts.
At night, the lodge is far from quiet — but in the best way. You’ll hear the howls of coyotes, croaking frogs, rustling leaves… it’s real wilderness all around you. For some, that may be surprising. For others, it’s exactly what makes this experience unforgettable.
✅ Summary:
- 🅿️ Parking: well-organized in theory, but disrupted by careless visitors.
- 🎟️ Reception: warm and professional on day one, cold and distant the next.
- 🛏️ Lodge: clean, cozy, no TV or Wi-Fi — fully designed to reconnect you with nature.
- 💰 Price: yes, it’s on the expensive side, but absolutely worth it for such a rare, immersive experience.
👉 A second review about the park itself and the dining experience will follow shortly.
Parc Animalier de Sainte-Croix :
- Adresse : Route de Sainte-Croix, 57810 Rhodes, France
- Site officiel : parcsaintecroix.com
