Sensational vacations in Seychelles
Seychelles. A country that consists of a colony of islands —115 to be exact — off East Africa and known for its sand so powdery and white that sun rays bounce off each speck, clear waters that lure you into the deep blue, abundant coral reefs teeming with wildlife, and exotic flora and fauna. While just slightly more than 10 islands are uninhabited, many have become homes to the most luxurious resorts one can imagine.
Located just 34 miles northeast of the capital of Mahe lies Felicite, an island with granite boulders fringing its shorelines. Now home to Six Senses Zil Pasyon, the 652-acre island welcomes guests with 30 villas and 17 private residences.
Just a third of the land has been cleared to make way for the resort, with the rest of the paradise’s pristine beauty kept intact. Apart from the usual sports and leisure facilities, six dining and bar venues are scattered across the property, serving local, Asian, African and European fare. One of the highlights is the resort’s meatless Ocean Kitchen, that only serves the catch of the day, ensuring the freshest seafood on your plate.
Six Senses Zil Pasyon makes the most of its untouched landscape, its architecture featuring “spaces that appear to have evolved naturally". An artist’s palette of stone, timber and fabric is weaved effortlessly to reflect the natural surroundings of weathered rock and petrified timber. Living and social spaces transition seamlessly from indoors to outdoors, with fittings selected to complement the vibrant landscape. Each villa and residence is also decked in balau timber, exposed wooden beams and bow windows, providing an authentic, village feel.
Guests may choose from one- or two-bedroom villas, ranging from 200 to 500sqm. Each comes with a sun deck, outdoor dining area, wine cellar and an infinity pool, and offers an uninterrupted view of the ocean. Need some recommendations, or an additional wet face towel to cool off? A personal Guest Experience Maker will see to your every need
Of course, the highlight of Six Senses Zil Pasyon is its Six Senses Spa, sprawled over 1,765sqm of land. With five individual villas to ensure utmost privacy, be prepared to be spoilt by the spa’s signature ancient holistic treatments, whilst relishing in panoramic views of the vast sea. Post treatment, you may also relax in the hammam, sauna, saltwater pool and nail bar, or attend a yoga class.
Apart from the usual water sports, you may explore the island via its walking trails. Six Senses Zil Pasyon can also organise private visits to neighbouring islands, hiking sessions in the Coco de Mer valley, and hill climbs for sunset views. Should you have little ones in tow, Truloulou Kid’s Villa, an interactive camp for children between four to 12 years old, will keep them busy.
Six Senses Zil Pasyon will open in the fall of 2016 and is accessible from Mahe via a 20-minute helicopter ride or a 90-minute journey by sea. Rates start from €1,200 per night.
