and I begin to eagerly anticipate. The music, too, captures the essence of this resort. Playing in the background is a collection of original compositions commissioned by the Banyan Tree and titled “Touching Beauty” – it might as well have become our anthem for the three nights we spent wrapped in this cocoon of simple splendour. There are six different styles of villas available, depending on the number of guests and whether you choose to reside on the hillside, in the rocks, or at the beach. All have their own infinity pools and many have a spa gazebo, where you can schedule any of the treatments available from the resort’s extensive Banyan Tree Spa menu. Being in a beachside villa, it doesn’t take long until the children drag me down through our private garden to the path which leads onto our own piece of paradise. This coast is a prime spot for turtles, and in season, you can watch them come on shore to lay eggs, under the watchful eye of the resident turtle guide. When it comes to dining, we are spoiled for choice and can stroll through the paths set in a protected wetland to the main restaurants for Thai cuisine at Saffron,
international and Asian cuisine at Au Jardin d’Epices, or Creole cooking at Chez Lamar. Travelling with kids, however, we opt for invilla dining at our convenience, and with Banyan Tree’s discreet and efficient service, we delight in our meals on the patio as the kids frolic between the hot tub, the outdoor shower, and the pool. Should you be embarking on a romantic holiday instead, options abound for intimate interludes. The chef will prepare a private beach barbeque, a moonlight dinner, or pack you a picnic and champagne for a trip to Intendance Bay. If you really want to splurge, you can book a “Sea and Star” evening at the Presidential Pool Villa. The villa occupies its very own cove by the water’s edge and no expense has been spared at this secret hideaway. As you soak in the majestic scenery, your butler will serve a five-star meal and take care of every whim. And should you desire to extend the dream, you can even stay the night. For yet another unforgettable experience, you can also explore the open seas and pristine beaches by booking a trip on the Banyan Lagoon I, a 47-foot
catamaran that resides at the resort. Beautifully outfitted, this boutique boat comes with classic Banyan Tree décor and exceptional service, perfect for a special overnight celebration or a day of diving and snorkelling or deep-sea fishing among some of the 115 islands of the Seychelles archipelago. Although we did not take advantage of any of these special offerings, our stay was nonetheless an exceptional one. I am not sure whether it was the fine, sensual touches or the wide range of amenities, the dramatic physical location of the resort, or the knowledge that Banyan Tree is seriously committed to an eco-friendly consciousness that made this such a deeply pleasurable stay. Our visit to Banyan Tree Seychelles was our first experience of the Banyan Tree Resort offerings, and I do know we are smitten. The incense I brought home with me is a tangible reminder of how we touched beauty at Banyan Tree Seychelles. For more information: • Visit: www.banyantree.com • Email: seychelles@banyantree.com • Tel: +248 383 500