Eco Lodges and Partnering Conservation Projects
Sustainable Travel in Seychelles
Sustainable travel is something that is becoming increasingly spoken about, and rightly so. If you’re looking for inspiration on places to travel, those of paradise locations, unique escapes, experiences and accommodations that pride themselves on sustainability, then head to the Seychelles.
From locally sourced to homegrown goods, harvested in the gardens of these resorts, to conservation projects, solar energy and reductions in water waste and plastic consumption – the places that I’ll be highlighting within this article are all that and more. All locations have strong sustainable and eco-friendly initiatives and are dedicated to the conservation of their atolls, species and the development of their communities.
The main islands that feature in the Seychelles archipelago include Mahe, Praslin and La Digue, these bigger islands are home to a plethora of beautiful and individual retreats. With the more remote and smaller islands offering five-star private hideaways. Though, no matter the size of the island, they all have a keen eye for conservation.
Denis Private Island
Denis Island is a private island which can be reached from Mahe via a 20-minute flight. The resort is set up to be as environmentally low-impact as possible. A working farm means the place is self-sufficient, the farm produces and provides enough harvest for both its guests and staff. Denis promotes healthy cuisine and farm-to-table concept with a rich culinary experience.
With no mobile phone signal anywhere, those visiting Denis are encouraged to digitally detox; wifi is available but only in the library – situated in the main building of the resort. The island offers experiences both on land and by sea, and boasts a Nature’s Own Spa Sanctuary, using only local ingredients which are just as unique as Denis itself.
Guests can rise early with the Green Islands Foundation rangers to tally tracks of egg-laying sea turtles on the beach or scout the forests for magpie robins and paradise flycatchers, learning more about breeding and tagging projects for these critically endangered birds.
A more relaxed and leisurely experience is also on offer, guests can get to know the island and its inhabitants by taking a simple stroll or bicycle ride: century-old tortoises, the island’s poultry coops and animal pens, and the chapel are just some of the charms to witness.
Snorkelling equipment, kayaks and paddles are provided on the island, allowing guests to explore the island’s surrounding lagoon to their heart’s content. The reefs in the protected lagoon are teeming with tropical fish, turtles and other colourful forms of marine life.
Should you wish to venture further and enjoy the greater depths of the underwater, the PADI dive centre offers a range of different dive sites to choose from, as well as certification courses for beginners. Or dabble in catch-and-release sport fishing way out in “The Drop-Off,” where ocean depths plunge to 2,000km at the edge of the Seychelles plateau.
So, why should you go? The completely private coral islet of 375 acres is exclusively reserved for guests to share with nature, the island provides a responsible accommodation choice, it strives for self-sustainability, it is a conservationist’s paradise and hosts several globally recognised programmes.
The resort is also an excellent family holiday destination, ideal for children and is also perfect for honeymooners and groups. Plus, it is possible to book out the entire island for total privacy.
Six Senses Zil Pasyon
Occupying less than a third of the total island, Six Senses Zil Pasyon is the sole resort on Félicité. Offering a plethora of activities for all ages, from hiking and discovering nature to water sports and beach activities island-hopping, sun-set cruises and cinema under the stars.
The Six Sense Zil Pasyon is an island paradise resort and is a perfect destination for couples, families and friends; with luxury, all-villa accommodations that feature infinity pools and unparalleled views, providing guests with a personal Guest Experiences Maker (GEM).
Sustainability for Six Senses Zil Pasyon starts with growing their own food, either in their organic garden or sourced from their local farmers. In 2019, they produced nearly 39,000 kilos of organic herbs, fruits and veggies to feed both guests and staff.
Since then, a new area has been developed next to their garden, where guests have the opportunity to learn more about the approach to permaculture and compost – so you can get the know-how to be more self-sufficient when they return home. Their fish and seafood are sourced from local fishermen who are committed to sustainable fishing.
The resort is passionate about the restoration of the island’s ecology. From environmental to social responsibilities, encouraging forest restoration and youth engagement, Six Senses Zil Pasyon has reintroduced authentic species of trees and plants back into the landscape meaning a happy return of endemic birds.
The resort has collaborated with schools in order to raise awareness of conservation and environmental protection, as well as promoting activism among young students, to inspire a future where they may continue to work actively among their community. The resort also features a reverse osmosis plant and crystal water refinery, where mineralised water is produced without any carbon footprint.
Bird Island
Holiday on a self-catering private island; a sanctuary fringed by untouched beaches and turquoise clear waters. At Bird Island Lodge there is no air conditioning, no fridges, telephones or televisions provided in the rooms, consequently meaning that the power usage per chalet can be kept to a minimum.
This authentic Seychelles experience allows guests to reconnect with their surroundings. With opportunities to learn of the amazing history of the Giant Land Tortoises that roam the island, snorkel with the remarkable marine life in the surrounding waters and discover the many species of birds that call Bird Island home. Here is where nature reigns and we are but visitors.
The island is an important nesting ground for Sooty Terns and a variety of other species of birds. As well as this the island offers a unique experience and the chance to see and learn about the history of the Giant Land Tortoises.
Why Bird Island? The island offers a unique opportunity to experience Seychelles not just as a guest but also as an islander. Set in a nature reserve and bird sanctuary, the villas offer guests a rare opportunity to experience a low key private island holiday in the Seychelles, with friends and family.
“The choice is ours, as is the responsibility to look after our planet, taking time to do the research on whether a resort is responsible, sustainable and eco-friendly is simply part of our role in being a sustainable tourist; to keep these desirable destinations around the world beautiful, enriched and thriving.”
Alphonse Lodge
The Alphonse group of atolls is considered one of the most pristine in Seychelles, untouched Edens of the world, making it a nature lover’s paradise.
At Alphonse Lodge guests can choose to stay in luxury accommodations such as Beach Bungalows, Suites and Villas, all of which are nestled in nature, just moments away from the beach; these havens provide spectacular Indian Ocean views.
