REVIEW: Raffles - Praslin, Seychelles

Amidst the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles beckon travellers with its unparalleled beauty: pristine beaches, verdant mountains, and a landscape straight out of a postcard. It's a slice of paradise that seems almost otherworldly, leaving visitors yearning for the convenience of teleportation to reach its shores. For those journeying from the UK, the arduous 12-14+ hour flights stand as the primary hurdle, yet the allure of this destination makes every minute of air travel worthwhile.

Getting to the Seychelles

Fortunately, our recent excursion to the Seychelles was made infinitely smoother, thanks to the expertise of Wonderluxe Travel, an award-winning UK-based travel agency renowned for its exemplary services worldwide. Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, even seasoned travellers like myself often find themselves grappling with last-minute arrangements. Enter Sheena, our dedicated contact at Wonderluxe, who effortlessly orchestrated every aspect of our journey, from securing optimal flight times to ensuring our preferred seats and seamless check-ins. With her meticulous attention to detail, she alleviated the stress of travel logistics, allowing us to focus solely on the anticipation of our adventure ahead.

Planning with Wonderluxe

While our experience with Wonderluxe primarily centred around air travel, their repertoire extends far beyond mere flight bookings. Their bespoke services cater to every facet of travel, from reserving accommodations tailored to your preferences to curating bespoke excursions that align perfectly with your interests. In essence, Wonderluxe epitomises the epitome of luxury travel, transforming even the most intricate travel plans into seamless, unforgettable experiences.

First Impressions & Setting

Situated on the northeastern side of Praslin overlooking the stunning Anse Takamaka beach, Raffles Seychelles offers guests multiple transportation options. Whether you prefer the scenic one-hour ferry ride aboard Cat Cocos, a quick 20-minute flight with Air Seychelles, or the ultimate indulgence of a 20-minute private helicopter transfer arranged by the hotel, your arrival at this idyllic retreat promises to be a memorable experience.

Upon passing through the resort gates, guests are greeted with a breathtaking panoramic view that encompasses Curieuse Island, setting the stage for an unforgettable stay.

Our beautiful resort is a secluded tropical haven for discerning adventure seekers, and a beacon for sustainability in a natural setting of rare wonder.

Despite its expansive 40-acre size, Raffles Seychelles maintains an atmosphere of discreet luxury. Winding pathways snake through lush foliage, leading to hilltop villas strategically placed to ensure privacy for every guest. Only when you step back to take in the entire property do you grasp the sheer grandeur of the resort.

While Raffles Seychelles epitomises upscale luxury, its atmosphere remains refreshingly unpretentious. The ambience exudes a relaxed vibe with hints of understated opulence. The staff, known for their warmth and hospitality, quickly make you feel like part of the Raffles family, fostering a sense of connection that lasts beyond your stay. It's no exaggeration to say that bidding farewell to them upon departure leaves a pang of genuine longing.

Pool Villas at Raffles Seychelles

Rooms

With a choice of 86 pool villas, even the 'smaller' rooms are sumptuously spacious enough. Throughout our stay at Raffles, we enjoyed the panoramic villa, which boasted floor-to-ceiling windows that flooded the space with beautiful sunlight. The villas are lavishly furnished with king-sized beds, dual-sink bathrooms, dressing rooms, and all the amenities you could need during your stay. The outdoor pavilion also features sumptuous sun loungers and plenty of shaded seating areas, perfect for relaxing with a book or enjoying a glass of champagne.

Not only are the villas extraordinary, but it's the in-villa service that truly elevates the experience. Upon arrival, we were welcomed with a selection of handmade chocolates presented in an edible seashell, and throughout our stay, we discovered several more delightful surprises that epitomised five-star luxury. On a particularly hot day, a selection of fresh, cooling juices was delivered to our room, and one evening, we were delighted to find luxuriously soft eye masks and mandarin pillow spray placed beside our bedside table. Additionally, we indulged in a Mandarin Bath Soak, which included nourishing bath oils, salts, and freshly cut mandarins to soothe the skin.

Mandarin Spa Bath

Dining

Losean, presents an indulgent culinary journey with offerings for both breakfast and dinner. However, it was the grand breakfast spread that truly captivated us, featuring a grand selection of delectable dishes to start the day on a high note.

Curieuse Restaurant, beckons with its island-chic ambiance and enticing menu showcasing vibrant pan-Asian flavours. Set against the backdrop of breathtaking ocean views, dining here is an unforgettable experience that tantalises the senses.

The Sushi Room, is the intimate enclave where every detail, from the sleek décor adorned in shades of black and red to the Japanese furnishings, sets the stage for a memorable dining affair. Here, skilled chefs artfully prepare fresh sushi and sashimi, promising a culinary journey that delights even the most discerning palates.

Poolside Bar Food

Extensive Breakfast Selection

Japanese Dining at Raffles

Pool Restaurant & Bar, offers more than just a meal—it's a culinary oasis where guests can savour a diverse selection of international cuisine for lunch. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty feast or a light and refreshing option, this inviting venue has something to satisfy every craving.

Danzil Lounge is positioned opposite Losean. Here, amidst a sophisticated ambiance, guests can unwind with a carefully curated selection of fine rums and impeccably crafted cocktails. It's the perfect setting to conclude the evening in style, indulging in post-dinner relaxation and conversation.

Experiences

Floating Breakfast: Indulge in a Floating Breakfast amidst the splendour of your villa at Raffles Seychelles. With each villa offering breathtaking views, it's tempting to linger in your luxurious abode throughout your stay. For a leisurely start to your day, opt for this serene experience, where you can savour a fresh juice or coffee on your balcony while basking in the tranquil surroundings.

Tortoise Feeding: Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Seychelles with the Tortoise Feeding activity at Raffles Seychelles. As these magnificent reptiles are a common sight in the Seychelles, Raffles provides guests with the opportunity to witness and participate in their daily feeding rituals. Check the schedule for feeding times and gain insight into the fascinating world of these gentle creatures.

Floating Breakfast at Raffles

Tortoise Feeding at Raffles

Creole Cooking Class: Experience the vibrant flavours of Creole cuisine through a hands-on cooking class at Raffles Seychelles. Delve into the rich culinary heritage of the Seychelles as you learn to prepare traditional Creole dishes under the guidance of the resort's expert chefs. From tantalising spices to fresh seafood, experience a culinary journey that celebrates the essence of Seychellois culture.

Spa & Wellness: Pamper yourself with an array of revitalising treatments designed to restore balance and vitality. Enhance your well-being with morning meditations, sunrise yoga sessions, or a workout at the fully equipped gym, ensuring a holistic approach to personal wellness throughout your stay.

Watersports: Discover the vibrant underwater world at Raffles Seychelles. Whether snorkelling amidst colourful coral reefs, paddleboarding along the tranquil shores, or kayaking through crystal-clear waters, the resort offers an array of aquatic adventures for guests to enjoy. Join a guided snorkelling excursion with experienced instructors and immerse yourself in the mesmerising marine life of the Seychelles.

Creole Cooking Class

Facial at Raffles Seychelles

Sunrise Yoga in Raffles

Final Thoughts Immersing myself in the enchanting ambience of Raffles Seychelles was an experience beyond compare. The resort effortlessly marries timeless elegance with the breathtaking natural beauty of its surroundings, creating a haven of tranquillity and luxury.

From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with warm hospitality and a sense of belonging that continued throughout my stay. What truly stood out was the impeccable service and attention to detail, from personalised greetings to thoughtful gestures that made me feel truly valued as a guest. Whether indulging in a romantic dinner under the stars or rejuvenating with a spa treatment overlooking the ocean, every moment at Raffles Seychelles was a cherished memory in the making.

As I reflect on my time here, I am left with a profound sense of gratitude for the unforgettable experiences and cherished moments that will stay with me forever. The resort is not just a destination; it's a journey of discovery, relaxation, and sheer bliss.

Book your next stay at Raffles Seychelles by visiting: raffles.com/seychelles Alternatively, if you're looking to book a package or concierge service, you can also check out the service I used: wonderluxetravel.co.uk

This stay was gently offered by Raffles Seychelles. All views and opinions here are as usual my own.