WINTER SUN: Paradise Found

An archipelago of 155 islands off the coast of East Africa, with its miles of spellbinding white sand beaches lapped by the warm turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles is about as close to paradise as its possible to get. And with no quarantine requirements on arrival, travel deprived as we are, there’s nowhere we’d rather be jetting off to.  

Visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to luxury accommodation here, though top of our wish list is the brand-new Mango House, by LXR Hotels & Resorts. Nestled in the fragrant fruit trees along the shores of Anse Aux Poules Bleues bay on Mahé, the largest of the islands, it is an intimate and exclusive oasis.

Originally built as a family dwelling by celebrated Italian photographer Gian Paolo Barbieri, the hotel offers 41 impeccably designed guest rooms, suites, and villas, all with unobstructed sea views. Those in search of the ultimate family getaway can book an exclusive cluster of 13 guest rooms. Known as Cliff House, this is the largest villa in the Seychelles and comes complete with its own private, elevated pool. 

The luxurious facilities encompass two glorious pools, three exclusive restaurants serving fresh local cuisine, a cocktail bar and poolside bar, a secluded spa offering treatments incorporating locally made products, a well-equipped fitness suite and a kids club.

Staying true to the LXR brand, every element of Mango House is connected to its surroundings with a focus on sustainability and supporting local businesses where possible. Feisal Jaffer, Global Head, LXR Hotels & Resorts says: “Mango House has an abundance of captivating stories to be told and we cannot wait to share them with our guests. Developed in harmony with its surroundings, Mango House mirrors the traditions of southern Mahé folklore, with the fascinating Seychellois culture woven into every aspect of the personalised guest experience.” 

For more information, see lxrhotels.com/mango-house-seychelles. For help planning your trip to the Seychelles, visit seychelles.travel