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Where to Stay in the Seychelles:

Best Luxury Resorts and Private Islands

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In recent years, accommodation options in this string of Indian Ocean islands have expanded tremendously, with the majority of development on Mahé. From private island resorts to five-star global hotel brands, there are plenty of choices for luxury honeymoons and post-Safari relaxation. Although largely uninhabited, the handful of private islands—most with nothing on them other than a single resort—will blow your mind (and possibly your budget).

 

Best Luxury Resorts

 

Banyan Tree Seychelles

The only property on Anse Intendance—one of Seychelles most beautiful beaches—the Banyan Tree Seychelles is arguably the most romantic resort on Mahé. The large, quasi-French Colonial villas ooze luxury and privacy. All have their own pools, outdoor dining salas, and decks—all of which are enclosed so that those inclined can treat their outdoor space with the same abandon as they do the indoors. Highlights: absolutely idyllic for honeymooners and those looking for a little romance; great Thai restaurant; amazing beach.

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Four Seasons

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The 67 villas at this resort, which opened in 2009, dot the forested hillsides of a natural amphitheater overlooking the perfect bay of Petite Anse. The vegetation and trees were all left in place or replanted so that this gorgeous and very upmarket resort feels like it's been here for years, blending in remarkably well with its surrounds. The villas themselves are breathtaking: spacious, modern, and yet imbued with Creole style and original artworks by Seychellois artists. Highlights: spectacular villas with private plunge pools; fantastic beach with excellent snorkeling year-round; great activities center, kids’ program, and cooking classes.

 

Best Private Islands

 

Denis Private Island Resort
Discovered in 1773 by Denis de Trobiand, this coralline island was the sight of cotton, maize, and then coconut farming from 1845 to 1982, becoming a resort (for a private individual and his friends) only in 1978. The current owners purchased the island in 1997, entirely rebuilding it in 2006. The end result is a spectacularly elegant and yet unpretentious resort of 25 deluxe cottages on the beach—some are staggered a bit behind the true beachfront units—that boast features like private outside salas with daybeds, gorgeous partially outdoor bathrooms, iPod docks, king-size beds, and private beachfront with sun loungers. Highlights: nature walks with conservationists and great bird-watching; glorious isolation.

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Desroches Island

The only resort on the Amirantes coral island group (and situated within an entire atoll), Desroches will fulfill all your coconut-fringed, white-sand-beach-paradise fantasies. Twenty double villas are located around the main lodge area, which includes the spacious and airy Veloutier Restaurant, a very hip bar with great cocktails, a gorgeous pool area, a small shop, and the reception area—all graced with comfortable couches in whites and beiges, elegant displays of shells, and a convenient Wi-Fi connection. Farther afield, 28 four-bedroom villas are the ideal family or group vacation spot. Highlights: absolute heaven for active water lovers and fishermen, with an incredible activities center and stunning diving and fishing sites; four-bedroom villas are an opulent yet affordable option for a large group or family; all rooms are 25 meters (82 feet) from the beach.

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North Island Resort

Operated by Wilderness Safaris, this private island takes the wow effect to a new level. The only property on Seychelles’ third largest granitic island, the resort's breathtaking villas are each the size of most people's houses, and unlike most abodes, boast a private plunge pool, deck, sun pavilion, private butler, and sea views from every angle. Highlights: villas that take space, privacy, and comfort to a new level of barefoot luxury (your villa may well have once hosted Hollywood celebrities and heads of state); dining anywhere, anytime, and whatever your appetite craves; all activities are inclusive except full-day deep-sea-fishing charters and spa treatments.

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