Hospitality and traditional flavours

The Seychelles offers a wide variety of accommodation, ranging from world-class resorts to cosy, family-run establishments. To make it easier to find the latter, the dedicated website sshea.com (Seychelles Secrets Small Hotels and Guesthouses Association) is a valuable resource for discovering charming guesthouses that foster genuine interaction with the locals. Among the leading accommodation options on each island, Praslin is home to the elegant L’Archipel, overlooking Anse Gouvernement Bay, and Les Lauriers, renowned for its informal atmosphere and commitment to sustainability. On Mahé, options range from the Carana Beach, characterised by a contemporary design set amongst the granite rocks of the north, to the historic Chez Batista, situated directly on the unspoilt beach of Anse Takamaka in the south of the island.

On La Digue, there is the boutique hotel Le Repaire, situated near the centre of La Passe, or Casa de Leela, a property set amongst the greenery, which is ideal for a self-catering holiday.

The cuisine reflects the cultural diversity of the archipelago, characterised by the skilful use of spices such as curry, ginger and lemongrass. In Victoria, the historic Marie Antoinette restaurant offers a traditional Creole tasting menu that has remained virtually unchanged over the years, served in a typical colonial mansion. Also on Mahé, the Kafé Kreol at Anse Royale serves an intriguing Creole-Italian fusion cuisine right on the beach, whilst Maison Marengo, situated within the Domaine de Val des Pres, combines traditional dishes with a relaxed atmosphere. For a quick stop in the capital, Café Gou Notik is a popular go-to spot.

On Praslin, La Pirogue, situated along the lively Côte d’Or, and the Mabuya restaurant, located near the famous Anse Lazio, are particularly noteworthy. Finally, on La Digue, the casual Chez Jules at Anse Banane is famous for its fresh fruit juices and freshly prepared fish dishes, whilst the Old Pier offers a picturesque view of the sea.

For travellers who opt for the flexibility of a holiday let or guesthouse, day-to-day logistics are made easier by local apps offering home delivery of meals and groceries, such as Manzaii, Wheelies Delivery and Wow Delivery, which are handy for enjoying ready-made meals or fresh ingredients in the comfort of your own accommodation after a day spent exploring the archipelago’s trails and beaches.