The Seychelles, year-end festivities in the sun

With over 100 islands scattered around the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles are synonymous with paradise.

As far as the eye can see, charm and exoticism work their spell : lush, vivid green vegetation, beaches of white sand shaded by coconut palms and often deserted, the turquoise water of the lagoon, a rich and diverse seabed. The Seychelles also invite their guests to discover local gastronomy featuring the authentic flavours of Creole dishes and the freshest local produce, including fish and seafood. Numerous luxury hotels have, of course, opened their doors on Mahe, Praslin, La Digue, Silhouette, Frégate and Denis Island, sublime resorts in harmony with their surroundings. Private villas built of wood on the hills or on pilings right on the beach, houses in colonial style stylishly revamped, contemporary residences opening to the great outdoors, all perfect addresses for stays (especially in romantic mode) comprised of contemplation of nature, experiences for the senses and in-depth relaxation. The ideal destination for an elite wanting year-end festivities to be blessed by the warmth of the sun...

Les bonnes Tables :

Le château de feuilles

Villas built of wood perched in the tree-tops or at the edge of the ocean, deserted beaches, impeccable service, an enchanting spa, exotic dishes, VIP services, chic colonial decor and luxurious appointments... A dream come true at the Four Seasons resort on Mahe, reached by a winding little path through the woods. A real gateway to paradise ! www.fourseasons.com/fr/seychelles

Just 3 km from the capital, Victoria, the luxury H Resort Beau Vallon Beach is a gracious port-of-call with 100 suites, villas, a contemporary spa, and seven restaurants proposing a wide choice of dining experiences. It is also the ideal address for fans of diving. www.seychelles.h-hotel.com

Surrounded by palm trees and the tropical forest, the Banyan Tree nestles at the edge of Intendance Bay on Mahe, offering enchanting views of the Indian Ocean. Set upon the former residences of actor Peter Sellers and George Harrison of the Beatles, this resort consists of luxuriously appointed villas. A spa and renowned restaurant complete its idyllic amenities. www.banyantree.com

On the isle

of Praslin, the restaurant at the Château de Feuilles, the only “Relais & Châteaux” in the Seychelles, is renowned as being the most refined table in the archipelago. Local ingredients (fresh fish, spices, organic vegetables from the chef’s garden...) are prepared with inventiveness, lightness and delicacy. chateaudefeuilles.com

Le Bourgeois

At Le Bourgeois, guests feast on fusion cuisine inspired

by lands around the Indian Ocean. A voyage of culinary discoveries

to be relished at this chic restaurant, nestling in the Meridien Fisherman’s Cove hotel. www.lebourgeois.sc

Le Marie-Antoinette

In a typical colonial house in Victoria, the Marie-Antoinette restaurant proposes the quintessence of Creole cuisine : parrot fish, tuna steaks, chicken curry, aubergines fried in batter... A local institution for over 40 years. www.marieantoinette.sc