Name: Raffles Seychelles
Address: Anse Takamaka Baie Sainte Anne, Praslin, Seychelles

Raffles Seychelles

Seychelles, Seychelles

Raffles Seychelles

Seychelles, Seychelles

About the hotel

Style

Elegant

Rooms

"Situated above Anse Takamaka beach on the granite island of Praslin, Raffles Seychelles boasts dreamy villas, a variety of dining options, incredible views and the archipelago’s largest spa."

The Seychelles archipelago off the coast of East Africa is a natural wonderland. The landscape is dramatically varied from its forested mountains to its picturesque beaches and vibrant coral reefs below the waves. The all-villa Raffles Seychelles can be found on the granite island of Praslin, situated above Anse Takamaka beach. Approach by plane, helicopter or by a lengthier ferry ride, and you’ll be met with dozens of villas tucked into the verdant landscape on the cusp of a jewel-toned sea.

You’ll want to be choosey when picking your villa – some are just a tad too close together for complete seclusion, making the private decks and terraces feel decidedly less private.

The size of the villas makes up for it somewhat – even entry-level accommodations are huge. Interiors are pleasantly neutral, with plenty of dark wood contrasting against crisp white linens and light walls. Views are wonderful, even from the bathrooms, which have thoughtfully placed windows so you can take in the scenery while you soak in the tub.

The food at Raffles is consistently good although at times feels a bit lacklustre. What the cuisine lacks in inspiration, it makes up for in variety – namely at Losean Restaurant which serves a vast international buffet breakfast and dinners that on any given night may be themed. The al fresco Curieuse is the resort’s Asian restaurant and includes the Sushi Room for incredibly fresh seafood, a stone’s throw from the water. Danzil Bar Lounge is the swankiest option and serves fabulous tropical cocktails with ocean views.

The beach is narrow but pretty, perhaps better suited for watersports than for lazy days on the sand. Thankfully, there’s plenty to do besides sunbathing whether that means scuba diving, playing golf or arranging an adventurous excursion. A trip to the indulgent spa will also be time well spent; with thirteen treatment pavilions, it's the largest spa in the Seychelles. Treatments range from the conventional to the delightfully lavish – think caviar facials or couples treatments complete with champagne, chocolate and candlelit baths.

Given the size of the property, the resort offers buggies to ferry you about – though at times you may find yourself having to wait. Whether by foot or buggy, do be sure to spend some time simply exploring the grounds – the resort has many more gems to discover, from its nature trails to its colossal pool, probably one of the biggest you’ve ever seen.