Close your eyes and visualise the word ‘honeymoon’ and you’ll probably imagine the sort of icing-sugar sands, gem-like waters and cloudless skies that greet you in Seychelles. It’s the perfect destination for a post-wedding escape, with its blissful beaches, show-stopping hotels and excellent honeymoon credentials – the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, George and Amal Clooney and even the Beckhams have chosen it for a loved-up time out. The natural beauty of the archipelago is striking and with low-lying coral atolls, pristine reef islands, clear seas and a vibrant creole culture, it’s a great place to chill out beachside with your loved one.
North Island is the cream of the crop for honeymooners, and for the ultimate in castaway luxury, you won’t find better than Villa 11. This sumptuous retreat spreads out across multi-tiered levels, cascading down through a coconut grove to a private beach and the ocean below. Only available to couples, it’s the last word in honeymoon romance. From here, explore the wider island by foot, bicycle or golf buggy. As you wander white beaches lined with giant coco-de-mer palm trees, you may meet a free-roaming giant tortoise – the island is dedicated to preserving nature and as such, a Noah’s Ark wildlife conservation programme has been introduced. The magical sunrise hike is a must; watch the sun ascend over the glittering waters knowing you have a whole day of lazing on white sands or in sparkling waters together, followed by top-notch dining or spa treatments. The spectacular view is well worth the early start.
North Island twins well with the Seychelles’ largest island, Mahé, with its 3,000-foot mountains and picture-postcard beaches. Beautiful plants including the jellyfish tree and several rare orchids are unique to Mahé’s shores, and the Botanical Gardens in Victoria are ideal for a potter when you fancy a day off the beach. Bed down at the Maia Luxury Resort & Spa, which captures the culture of Eastern influences in a unique Seychelles setting. The property is set within 30 acres of tropical gardens leading down to the pristine beachfront of Anse Louis – a haven of tranquillity to soothe the soul. Whilst here, spoil yourself with fine dining at the famous Tec-Tec Restaurant, the only gourmet restaurant on Mahé and exclusive to Maia residents.
For a beachside romance and bucket list honeymoon rolled into one, Seychelles is a sure-fire hit. Plan your bespoke Seychelles honeymoon with the help of A&K’s experienced specialists.