Hotel in Algiers 16000, Algeria
Hotel El-Djazair
Formerly the historic Saint George Hotel, this colonial-era property blends 1920s charm with modern amenities. Set in lush gardens overlooking the Mediterranean, it offers elegant rooms, multiple dining venues, and rich historical atmosphere.
Hotel El-Djazair stands on Avenue Souidani Boudjemaa in the El-Biar district of Algiers, set within four hectares of mature gardens on the heights above the Bay of Algiers and the Mediterranean Sea. Originally built in 1889 as the Hotel Saint George, the property served as a headquarters for Allied commanders during the Second World War and has hosted figures including General Dwight D. Eisenhower and Winston Churchill — a history embedded in its architecture, guest registers, and public corridors.
The colonial-era building combines Moorish and Mediterranean architectural influences: terracotta tiled roofs, arched loggias, ornate tilework, and internal courtyards shaded by ancient trees. The gardens themselves are a significant draw, featuring bougainvillea, jasmine, and century-old eucalyptus alongside an outdoor swimming pool — a genuine rarity among Algiers hotels. Room categories span standard doubles to junior suites, all retaining period aesthetic touches while incorporating modern amenities including air conditioning, satellite television, and high-speed WiFi.
Dining centres on two restaurants: the main dining room serving Algerian and Mediterranean cuisine with formal table service, and a lighter option for poolside lunches during warm months. A bar provides cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages in a lounge setting. The breakfast buffet, served in the ground-floor dining room, is considered one of the better hotel breakfasts available in Algiers.
The spa and wellness area offers massage treatments and beauty services, while a tennis court set within the garden grounds provides recreation for sporting guests. The hotel has a concierge desk experienced in arranging excursions to the Casbah of Algiers — a UNESCO World Heritage Site roughly 5 km by road — as well as Tipaza's Roman ruins approximately 70 km west and the Roman site of Cherchell. Business guests benefit from meeting rooms and secretarial support.
El-Biar is a residential and administrative district approximately 4 km from central Algiers. Houari Boumediene International Airport is about 22 km east; airport taxis and private transfers can be arranged through the hotel. The property's standing as the grande dame of Algerian hotel hospitality makes it a consistent choice for visiting diplomats, government delegations, and international travellers who value historical setting over modern uniformity.
Amenities
- outdoor pool
- gardens
- 2 restaurants
- bar
- spa
- tennis court
- free WiFi
- room service
Visit / Book / Contact
- Phone: +213 21 23 25 00
Location
24 Avenue Souidani Boudjemaa, Algiers 16000, Algeria
36.7533, 3.0522 — View on map
Highlights
- Historic colonial property with origins dating to 1889, formerly the Saint George Hotel that hosted Allied WWII commanders
- Set within four hectares of Mediterranean gardens above the Bay of Algiers, with an outdoor swimming pool
- Moorish and Mediterranean architecture featuring arched loggias, ornate tilework, and century-old garden trees
- Two restaurants, a bar, spa, and tennis court within the property grounds
- Concierge experienced in arranging excursions to the Casbah UNESCO site, Tipaza Roman ruins, and Cherchell
Tips
- Book a garden-view room rather than a city-facing one if the historic grounds are appealing — the terrace and pool access are among the main draws
- The outdoor pool is open seasonally and is warmest from June through September; confirm availability when visiting outside this period
- The hotel is situated in El-Biar, uphill from the city centre — taxi is the most practical option for reaching central Algiers or the Casbah
- Smart-casual attire is expected in the formal dining room; dress codes are observed in the evening
- Reservations for the restaurant are advisable during state visits and international conferences, which can fill dining capacity at short notice
FAQ
What is the historical significance of Hotel El-Djazair?
The property was built in 1889 as the Hotel Saint George and served as Allied Forces headquarters in North Africa during the Second World War. Generals Eisenhower and de Gaulle and Prime Minister Churchill are among the notable figures associated with the hotel's wartime history.
Is the outdoor swimming pool available year-round?
The outdoor pool operates seasonally, generally from late spring through early autumn. Guests visiting outside the summer period should confirm pool availability directly with the hotel before arrival.
How far is the hotel from central Algiers and the airport?
The hotel is approximately 4 km from central Algiers; taxis take 15–25 minutes depending on traffic. Houari Boumediene International Airport is roughly 22 km to the east, approximately 30–45 minutes by road.
Does the hotel accommodate business travellers?
Hotel El-Djazair has meeting rooms, secretarial services, and concierge support suited to corporate visitors. The property regularly hosts government delegations and international conferences, and business facilities are maintained to a professional standard.
Accessibility
The hotel's historic building has uneven surfaces in some garden pathways and period-era thresholds that may present challenges for wheelchair users. The main entrance and reception area are accessible at ground level, but guests requiring step-free access to specific room types should notify the hotel in advance to confirm room location and lift availability.