Elion is a set among well-tended grounds in a private gated community on the outskirts of Ikoyi (part of the extension to Dolphin Park). Though Lagos is seeing a boom in upscale boutique hotels, this quiet, secluded property certainly has more character than a number of its identikit rivals.

The broad colonial-style frontage of Elion House makes an impression upon arrival, as does the small, stone-floored reception where you can be assured of a warm personal welcome. Off the lobby sits the Sherlock Bar, a comfortable spot to while away an hour or so. While the interior is more contemporary in style than Victorian, there are a couple of nods to the bar’s namesake, Mr. Holmes. To the other side of the lobby there is a small conference room equipped for up to 50 or so people.

Rooms can be a little small, depending on where in the building they are located (especially the standard rooms). However they are light and bright, with flat-screen TVs with DSTV, wi-fi, a minibar stocked with drinks and snacks, a small writing desk, and plenty of storage. Bathrooms are also on the small side, but they do have complimentary robes and slippers, and piping hot water.

A small pool sits between the two sections of the hotel, but it’s a cooling-off sort of pool, rather than one for exercise buffs. For those looking for more a workout, there is a small gym in a quiet corner of the grounds with running machines and free weights.

Surprisingly for a hotel that prides itself on peace and quiet, the Elion has a habit of playing pop music over the loudspeakers throughout the hotel grounds in the evenings.

Though the Elion’s selling point is peaceful seclusion, this comes at a price. It is quite a distance from any of the popular dining spots, and even the relatively short trip to Victoria Island can take up to 45 minutes if traffic is bad (which it will be). However, the warm, personal attention from the staff goes a long way toward compensating for the out-of-the- way location. Staff are more than happy to make recommendations for leisure trips or dining away from the hotel and are on hand to provide a wealth of information on what to do and where to go.