Restaurants: Delplace
Eating Oysters in Seychelles
You may think, being an island nation, that you would be able to eat yourself stuffed on oysters when you visit Seychelles. But alas, these delicious delicacies do not occur naturally in our waters.
However thankfully, if you know where to look, you may just be able to enjoy a batch of ice cold oysters and champagne.
One such place where you'll find freshly imported oysters - "Fresh Oysters from France" to be exact - is Delplace Restuarant in Port Launay on Mahé Island. ( At time of writing, a plate of 6 ice-cold oysters costs SCR 360.00 ).
The restaurant itself - offering trendy charm and exquisite views - is a great place to eat, even if you aren't on an oyster hunt, and offers a selection of Mediterranean style dishes, including pizzas, pastas and fresh seafood platters.
The best time to visit is around sunset where you will be afforded one of the most beautiful displays of solar-painting on the island, as the sun dips between and behind the islands of Isle Therese, Isle Lilot and the north-western coast of Mahé - and with one of Delplace's delicious cocktails in hand you just might feel like you have found your paradise.
Sailing: Sailing the Seychelles Seas
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| By Niki Gower |
Seychelles Yacht Charter invites the world to discover it all
T he Seychelles Archipelago remains one of the world's most prestigious holiday destinations with unparalleled natural splendor, convenience, accessibility and an exclusive vacation experience for any discerning travelers fortunate enough to find themselves in this paradise of a place.
Lush tropical forests give way to magnificent ocean vistas whilst powder white sand is lapped by the crystalline and tranquil waters of the Indian Ocean. An array of tropical fish and marine animals abound on its shallow coral gardens, whilst big game fish swarm in its deep, offshore waters.
A vestige of untouched natural beauty: an oasis of wonder far from the maddening chaos of the modern world, Seychelles’s 115 islands and its inviting waters are just begging to be explored. And the best way to do this, of course, is aboard your own private charter boat.
Seychelles Yacht Charter (SYC) has been operating in the Seychelles since 2011 in association with Floatilla Yacht Management and has established itself as one of the industry leaders. From bareboat to luxury full service, the company’s fleet is at your disposal and the team is on hand to assist you from first contact through completion of an unforgettable vacation experience. From tranquil island cruising, magical beach and forest excursions to memorable diving encounters the SYC will let you in on some of the Seychelles’ best kept secrets. If fishing is your game, SYC’s expertise and experience are there to ensure you land the big one.
Furthermore, SYC recently announced the international launch of its fleet and are inviting business partners, travel specialists and travel agents to come and discover for themselves the magic that is the Seychelles Yacht Charter experience. Visit www.seychellesyachtcharter.com to view their products and package or contact them directly at sales@syc.sc.
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| The Wharf Hotel and Marina: Home of Seychelles Yacht Charter |
Restaurants and Dining:
Konoba Sushi Saturdays
According to Konoba's General Manager, Bobbie Bayyumi; "We listened to our customers feedback and decided that we will once again offer delicious and fresh Sushi at our restaurant."
[Update: Konoba is no longer in operation, if you are looking for Sushi, try Coral Strand Hotel - 01.05.2015 ]
"Sushi culture is popular around the world, and we felt that both residents and visitors to Seychelles deserved the chance to enjoy a range of great, affordable Sushi at our convenient and picturesque location," she continued.
Convenient and picturesque Konoba certainly is! Only 5 minutes from Victoria and a stones throw away from Eden Island, the restaurant offers stylish decor set on the waters edge with great views of the Marina.
But whats on offer?
For the traditionalists, Konoba offers Nagiri, Hoso Maki Rolls, Futo Maki Rolls, and Sashimi. For a more adventurous option, try the Sushi Fusion items on offer, such as the Philadelphia Rolls (with Philadelphia Cream Cheese), the Beef Tataki, Tuna Tataki or the Spicy Fitness Grilled Tuna.
So if you are ever looking for great Sushi in Seychelles, the Konoba Sushi Saturdays are a great place to start.
For more info visit facebook.com/
Konoba Restaurant, Angel Fish Marina, Roche Caiman, Mahe, Seychelles
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Silhouette National Parks Experience
Discover the flora and fauna of untouched Seychelles
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| By Niki Gower |
Nature lovers and photographers will be in their element, and an expert guide from ICS can also be arranged at an additional fee to ensure a more in-depth educational experience. The IDC, who is responsible for the management and maintenance of the island, take extra special care to ensure that the hiking trails are in tiptop shape and obstruction free.
Seychelles Living had the opportunity to get a feel for the “Silhouette experience,” spending two nights on the island enjoying some of the hikes and other offerings.
NATURE WALKS
Jardin Marron Tour
Our first hike was to Jardin Marron, one of Seychelles’ best kept secrets – a garden of Coco de Mer palms surrounded by dense forest 450m up on the slopes of Mount Pot-a-Eau. The name of this “garden” of Coco de Mers (which only grow on two other islands, Praslin and Curieuse) translates (culturally) to “Garden of the Slaves,” as the location is said to be the point where runaway slaves settled after escaping their harsh livelihoods working on the plantation owned by the Dauban family, the original owners of Silhouette. In fact, the hiking trail itself was first trod by these slaves, and could be as old as 200 years. 
The trail starts in La Passe village, and is a meandering ascent to the garden. Despite the distance and incline of the trail, it is not too strenuous a trek, with the cool forest air aiding the climb. Moss covered boulders, trickling streams, lush foliage and an abundance of creepy-crawlies are guaranteed. However, if you are fortunate enough you may encounter one of Silhouette’s rarer inhabitants such as the dazzling tiger chameleon or perhaps a house or wolf snake (as our group was – but don’t worry, no snakes in Seychelles are venomous). An extra special find would be a specimen of Seychellophryne gardineri – the world’s second smallest frog species – endemic to Seychelles. The garden itself is a magical experience. Greeted by towering Coco de Mers in a tranquil grove, you are humbled by their size and beauty. The serenity of the garden is the perfect rejuvenating experience before you start the descent back to La Passe. This hike should take around three and a half hours to complete.
Anse Mondon Tour
Our second hike was to Anse Mondon. This hike starts with a short beach walk that leads to the start of the trail. Stepping into the lush forest you are greeted with cool shaded breezes and the sounds and sweet smells of tropical vegetation. It won’t be long before you spot your first critter, with an abundance of birds, insects and reptiles (including giant millipedes, the Seychelles Bulbul and the Seychelles Skink). Unlike the Jardin Marron trail, this one is not a straight ascent and descent, but offers the hiker a variation of terrain as you dip, climb and weave your way along. Through palm forests, bamboo groves and rocky ravines, the hiker is lead along an interesting, and sometimes challenging, adventure. The highest point of elevation on this hike is 260m, and a highlight of the walk is when you reach “Belle Vue” and are rewarded with a superb view of Anse Mondon below, and the knowledge that your destination is just ahead.
_web.JPG "Anse Mondon (Mondon Beach)")
Anse Mondon itself is a small, sheltered and isolated cove, which offers the opportunity for safe swimming and some fun bodysurfing – a welcome and refreshing reward after your trek. The beach is also a great place to picnic and relax, as well as get some postcard perfect shots of Seychelles in all its glory. At this point, you have the option of being collected by a boat from Hilton, if prearranged, and at a cost of SCR 510 per person. For those who which to walk the trip back, a good idea is to start walking back along the trail to the river where you will be able to wash the salt and sand off before the return hike. It starts off tough with the ascent back up to Belle Vue, but after that it’s easy walking back to the resort. This hike typically takes two hours each way.Grand Barbe Tour
Seychelles Living unfortunately did not have an opportunity to experience this hike firsthand, as typically this is a full day affair, but from what we hear we can’t wait to get back to Silhouette and try it out for ourselves. This challenging hike takes you across the island to the secluded and stunning Grande Barbe Plateau, where you can experience wild giant tortoises, explore one of the biggest mangrove forests in the country and relax on over 1km of white sand beach. During the peak hawksbill turtle nesting season (November to February) it is almost a given that you will encounter tracks along the beach and there is a good chance that you will have the opportunity to witness a nesting female in action, especially around high tide.
Grand Barbe also offers a chance to visit the old village, where 60 inhabitants once lived; today only three remain, as they lead secluded lives in the isolation of the plateau. Adventurers can explore some of the dilapidated old buildings and possibly have an opportunity to meet the remaining locals. As with the Anse Mondon hike, you have the option to prearrange a boat transfer back from Grand Barbe, cutting your journey in half (depending on the condition of the ocean). If not, the hike should typically take you about three hours each way.
ACCOMODATION
Hilton Labriz Resort and Spa
Set along a 2km stretch of unspoilt white beaches and amidst lush tropical flora, the Hilton Labriz is Seychelles at its best. With 111 villas set either along the beach, in the garden or against the mountain, the luxury accommodations are spacious, stylish and comfortable. The resort also features a world class spa experience offering a variety of revitalising treatments, as well as seven restaurants to savour the exotic tastes from around the culinary world.
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With a dedicated activity centre, gym and sports facilities, as well as comprehensive excursion packages, there is plenty to keep you busy. However, there is nothing wrong with simply wiling your day away on the beach or beside the pool, sipping cocktails and soaking in the Seychelles sunshine.
The Hilton Labriz Resort and Spa offers residents of Seychelles a special resident’s package SCR5 000.00 per villa per night for Beachfront Villa accommodation for up to two guests on half board, including return boat transfers from Mahé.
To book your stay at Hilton Labriz Resort and Spa, please contact reservations on +248 429 3949 (sezlb.reservations@hilton.com).
To book your stay at Hilton Labriz Resort and Spa, please contact reservations on +248 429 3949 (sezlb.reservations@hilton.com).
IDC Guesthouse
The IDC operate a fantastic and affordable guesthouse on Silhouette, offering clean, comfortable and spacious accommodations for up to 12 people in four rooms. At only SCR500.00 per person per night on full board, this is a great opportunity to get away for the weekend with friends and loved ones and experience all that Silhouette has to offer (children between 2 and 11 years old pay SCR300).
Chef Cyril Esther’s meals alone warrant the price for your stay, being fantastic hearty and tasty Creole favourites, prepared with the freshest ingredients.
There are also television and laundry facilities available, and the return ferry transfers to Silhouette will only cost SCR200.00 per person (children between 2 and 11 years old only pay SCR100.00).
To book your stay at the IDC Guesthouse, please contact IDC reservations on +248 438 4640.
Day trips
_web.JPG "Welcome to Silhouette")
Day trips to Silhouette are also possible, and ferry and hike bookings can be made through Hilton Labriz’s reservations office. Besides having the opportunity to explore Silhouette’s hiking trails, day visitors (and IDC guesthouse guests) can also have the opportunity to benefit from the Hilton Labriz Resort and Spa experience, by taking advantage of the resort’s “Day Visitor Passport” programme. This will allow non-resort guests the opportunity to take advantage of all the great amenities on offer at the Hilton Labriz, however spa, bar and restaurant reservations will need to be made in advance and prior to the day visit. The Silhouette National Parks Experience packages will be officially launched from August this year (2013). So next time you’re gazing across at Silhouette as the sun goes down on another perfect Seychelles day, why not stop wondering what lies beyond that shadowy outline of an island and plan a trip to discover it for yourself – Silhouette is more accessible than you think!
{ This article, by Niki Gower, was originally published (in part) in the TODAY in Seychelles Newspaper on the 11.07.2013 (www.today.sc), and also appears on the travel blog www.newworldnomad.blogspot.com. All photos copyright www.nikigowerphoto.com email: niki@silverspoonmedia.biz }
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| A Silhouette Sunrise, from he balcony of one of Hilton Labriz's Beachfront Villas |
Silhouette Island
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| By Niki Gower |
Hilton Labriz and the island of Silhouette
Ever sat on Beau Vallon Beach and stared off in to the distance, wondering about that prominent silhouette that looms from the horizon like a sentinel emerging from the sea? Close enough to feel as though it is the companion it has always been to Mahé’s inhabitants, yet far enough to retain a otherworldly mystique that stirs feelings of isolation and romantic curiosities.
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97% of Silhouette Island is classified as a National Nature Reserve and the island itself is in fact located within a Marine National Park – making Silhouette an oasis of pristine natural heritage. With its host of endemic and rare animals, lush tropical forests, unspoilt beaches, scenic mountain hikes and wetlands teaming with an array of life – Silhouette is a paradise for nature lovers or anyone looking for Eden on Earth. Silhouette is also a time capsule - a living museum of sorts –offering visitors a glimpse into the Seychellois ways of yesteryear.
Seychelles Livin' recently accompanied a delegation from the Ministry of Tourism and Culture on a familiarisation visit to Silhouette Island.
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| Organic herb and vegetable farming on Silhouette |
The delegation was hosted by with representatives from the Hilton Labriz Resort and Spa’s (the only hotel on the island), the Island Development Company (IDC - responsible for the management of the island,) as well as the Island Conservation Society (ICS - responsible for conservation on Silhouette).
The ICS presentation included an introduction to some of the flora, fauna and geology that make Silhouette a unique ecosystem – endemic and rare species that, in the view of ICS’s Benjamin Thompson, are “just as brand-able as the more famous Coco De Mer and Giant Tortoises that are traditionally associated with Seychelles”. The island does boast specimens of these two iconic species; however it is the unique species that present themselves as unique selling points for Silhouette and leave potential for the development of niche tourism attractions on the island – such as opportunities for nature lovers to view the Sheath Tailed Bat, hailed as the world’s rarest mammal.
The IDC presented the challenges and triumphs of its management of the island and its 150 local residents and 350 Hilton staff. Working closely with Hilton and ICS, the IDC has managed to maintain Silhouette as a pristine natural ecosystem as well as preserve its historical heritage.
The delegation was then treated to a tour of the Hilton Labriz Resort and Spa. The resort boasts 110 spacious villas divided into three categories. The Garden Villas are set among lush vegetation and offer spectacular views of Mount Dauban. The Beachfront Villas are tucked into the jungle and open onto pristine beach, offering unparalleled views of the Indian Ocean. The Deluxe Pool Side Villas – both hillside and beachfront – offer the same luxurious setting as the others, but come complete with their own private swimming pool and a separate thatched pavilion. The feather in the cap – the 111th villa on offer – is the Presidential Villa. Spread out with the convenience of two stylish bedrooms and boasting its own private swimming pool, a spacious living room and exclusive access to the beach!
The resort also offers guests the opportunity to visit their mountainside spa. Set amidst massive boulders in the fringes of the forest and offering a full suite of beauty treatments and revitalising rituals. Also on offer are seven international restaurants and a bar, a fitness centre, tennis court, diving and fishing adventures, guided nature walks, sunset cruises and a host of other activities to keep guests occupied. For the little ones, the Jungle Kids Club will keep the children occupied and entertained for hours.
But Silhouette is not just reserved for tourists with the funds and means to enjoy the full Hilton Labriz experience. The IDC also runs a small guest house on the island. Simple and clean with options for full board and housekeeping, the IDC guesthouse is the ideal opportunity for residents and tourists staying on other islands to get to experience Silhouette and all it has to offer.Day trips are also available – a cooperative between Hilton, IDC and ICS – that incorporates ferry transportation to the island, guided nature walks and a visit to Hilton Labriz to enjoy some of its offerings.
{ This article, by Niki Gower, was originally published in the TODAY in Seychelles Newspaper on the 04.05.2013 (www.today.sc), and also appears on the travel blog www.newworldnomad.blogspot.com. All photos copyright www.nikigowerphoto.com email: niki@silverspoonmedia.biz }
***MORE INFO***
ICS: www.islandconservationseychelles.com
IDC: : +248 4 38 46 40
HILTON LABRIZ: http://www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/seychelles/hilton-seychelles-labriz-resort-and-spa-SEZLBHI/index.html
Restaurant Review: Bodamier Cafe and Bar
Re-launched, revamped and ready for you
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| By Niki Gower |
So what has changed? First thing you will notice is that the interior has been redesigned. Furnishings have been rearranged and the courtyard now has a variety of seating options, an arrangement that flows from the dinner tables, through the lounge-style placing and back to the spacious couch - which Kelly has jokingly dubbed “the VIP room.” The indoors section has also been redesigned, with practicality in mind, and now offers more space as well as more efficient work flow for the staff.
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“We also spent some time and energy redoing the courtyard ceiling with Coco De Mer palm leaves – which are said to have a natural cooling effect,” explains Kelly. Coincide with the re-launch, Bodamier also brings you a fresh new menu of delicious and healthy meals. Along with more traditional favourites such as burgers, fish and chips and kari koko zourit (octopus curry), customers will notice there are some new exotic dishes now on offer – such as Balinese Pork with Ginger, Vietnamese Paper Rolls and Spanish Paella.
“We have re-designed the menu based on Indo-Pacific culinary tastes and customers will notice some new, exotic additions in addition to more traditional offerings. We wanted to offer the public a bit of variety and something different from what is offered at other restaurants around town,” continues Kelly.
The new menu features breakfasts, salads, sandwiches, wraps, pizzas, desserts and a dedicated “kid’s menu.” Bodamier also offers aroma-rich tea and coffee as well as freshly made fruit juices and ice-teas, among other beverages. Beers and wines are on hand to help you relax in the cool shade of the courtyard.A brand new Bodamier with a brand new menu calls for fresh creativity in the kitchen and the new man at the helm is Chef Dan Payet. Born and raised in Seychelles, Chef Payet has spent the last 29 years living in Germany. Back in his homeland, Chef Payet will be bringing his skills and expertise – culinary and managerial – to the new Bodamier experience.
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“It’s good to be back in sunny Seychelles,” says Chef Payet, “ and it’s exciting to be involved in Bodamier and being able to offer customers an opportunity to enjoy a great menu accented by a great venue with a tranquil and relaxed atmosphere.”Supporting Chef Payet in the running of the new Bodamier Cafe and Bar is a new team of friendly and efficient staff. When the heat and the stresses of the city streets are getting too much to bear, it’s a welcome relief to step into the safety of the courtyard and be greeted by a welcoming smile, ready to make sure you have everything you need.
“We are excited about the re-launch and having Chef Payet and the new team on board. We have just reopened but there are some exciting ideas on the table and we will be making a lot of changes and improvements as we move along, always looking to offer our customers something more and a better Bodamier experience,” concludes Kelly.
Bodamier Cafe and Bar is open Monday to Saturday from 07:30 am until 05:30 pm, and of course Friday evenings until late (happy hour starts at 4:30pm). So whether it’s a healthy breakfast and a strong cup of coffee to get you going, a tasty lunch and relaxing time out to break your busy day or perhaps a pick-me up snack or a beverage to help you relax, Bodamier is the oasis in the heart of Victoria where you will find whatever it is you require.
*** IMPORTANT UPDATE***
A part from operating their usual Monday to Saturday breakfast and lunch offerings between 07:30am and 5:00pm, Bodamier will now be open on Friday evenings too – with live music, chilled drinks, great food and an unbeatable ambience providing you with the perfect place to unwind after a busy work-week and get the week-end started.
{ This article, by Niki Gower, was originally published (in part) in the TODAY in Seychelles Newspaper on the 01.04.2013 (www.today.sc), and also appears on the travel blog www.newworldnomad.blogspot.com. All photos copyright www.nikigowerphoto.com email: niki@silverspoonmedia.biz }
If you can drive in Seychelles, you can most probably drive anywhere else in the world. . .
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| By Marilise Geldenhuys |
The roads are quite narrow and very windy. Speeding on these roads is not an option.
will be low and the size of the car will make driving a lot easier.
Taking some of these corners can be quite scary, especially if you are
approaching a bus. But let me assure you, the bus drivers are experts and know what they are doing; Just slow down and let them have the corner before you do and
you’ll be fine.
Taking a bus at least once is an experience I would recommend. The cost of a trip is standardised at 5 Seychelles Rupees. You can get on and off almost anywhere and from Mondays through Saturdays they pass by approximately every 30 minutes (Sundays there are fewer busses running so expect to wait a little longer). Equip yourself with a bus schedule (available at the kiosk at the central terminal), a sense of where you are heading as well as a pocket full of change and the island is yours to explore . . .
Another option – unfortunately the most expensive – is getting around by taxi.
The vehicles are generally in great condition and the
taxi-drivers know the roads very well. Most of them may even be able
to assist with some tourism information.
You can literally go around the island in one day. Because of this it makes it a great benefit
to hire your own car - you can stop anywhere and anytime you like.
Travelling along the coast is a beautiful sight. On Mahé, the main road is
named 5th of June Avenue and extends across the whole of the island and you cannot lose you way when following this road.
There are many alternative roads which cut through the island, but
even though they look like short cuts, the speed you drive on them is
half the speed you would drive along the coast because of the
windiness. Along every road, around every corner there is something
spectacular to see. There is always a shop close-by, so you have
plenty of opportunities to stop for refreshments.
I always recommend to my guests to take a map and to go get lost and I
recommend the same to you dear reader and traveller.
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