Golfe: Monuments, markets and beach

Golfe can be explored through a variety of themes: a monument to independence recalls Togo’s history, while markets, a fine sandy beach and sacred forests are among the tourist attractions in Golfe 1. These local points of interest offer concrete starting points for planning your trip. When looking for a holiday rental, first consider whether you would like to focus more on historical and cultural themes, markets or nature.

Places of remembrance and culture in Golfe

The Independence Monument was unveiled on 27 April 1960, the day Togo gained independence. It is located in the administrative district of Golfe 4. Also in Golfe 4 are Lomé Cathedral, in the neighbourhood, and the National Museum, in the administrative district; both are considered tourist attractions. Together, these places give Golfe 4 a distinct historical and cultural character, without implying any particular itinerary for a visit.

Baguida is another historical point of reference: the German-Togolese Centenary Monument commemorates German-Togolese relations on the occasion of the centenary in 1984. From 1884 to 1887, Baguida was the first seat of the German colonial administration. The local histories therefore bring together different periods: the early colonial administration and the remembrance of Togo’s independence. If history is a particular priority in your travel plans, these specific place names offer a starting point for choosing what to explore.

Markets, beach and sacred forests in Golfe 1

Golfe 1 has its own distinctive attractions. The municipality’s tourist attractions include the Bè Market and the Djifa-Kpota Market. There is also a fine sandy beach and the sacred forests of Hounvémé. These places and themes differ clearly from the monuments and cultural points of interest in Golfe 4: here, the focus is on markets, the beach and the forest.

These attractions can also be seen as different themes for days out together: history and culture on the one hand, markets and nature on the other. This is a thematic guide, not a prescribed itinerary. When choosing a holiday rental, you can therefore first consider which of these interests you would like to shape your time in Golfe around.

More to explore in the wider Maritime destination

In the wider Maritime destination, Maison Wood, also known as Maison des Esclaves or Wood Home, offers another point of cultural and historical interest. The building in Agbodrafo was constructed shortly after 1835 and designed in the Afro-Brazilian style. Its distinctive arched doors and windows define its architecture. The house is about 21 metres long and 10 metres wide; it contains six rooms and a salon. A cellar, 1.50 metres deep, extends along the entire perimeter of the building. John Wood, a Scottish merchant, lived in the house. These details offer a distinct perspective on architecture and life stories in the regional context of Maritime.

Aného also brings together urban history and architectural heritage. The old town lies near the border with Benin, about 50 kilometres east of Lomé. Aného was involved in transatlantic trade from the 15th century onwards. Many colonial buildings, including German colonial buildings, shape its historic character; the old structures bear witness to early contacts with European sailors and merchants as well as to the colonial period. Special visitor attractions in Aného include the museum and the Zangbeto dance. They complement the architectural history with cultural themes.

For those looking for other activities in the wider Maritime destination, the shore of Lake Togo offers an opportunity to relax. Activities on the lake include windsurfing, jet skiing, pedal boating and a pirogue crossing towards Togoville. When making specific plans, check which of these activities are available during your stay. This lets you decide how to balance your interests, from history and architecture to activities on the water.

Discover more destinations: Lomé.

Return to the overview of the wider destination: Maritime.