Set in a glorious 200 acres of nature, made of mountains and seaside on two sides, sits the Iles Des Palmes hotel of Praslin Island in the Seychelles.
After driving along a glorious view of red granite boulders on one side, and the horizon of the Indian Ocean on the other side, a warm Seychelles welcome awaits guests at Iles Des Palmes, a leading establishment on Praslin built by the Gill Family, whose roots date back to the early settlers of La Digue Jean Baptiste Laporte, exiled from La Reunion to La Digue, because he and his brother were too much trouble for the authorities of St. Denis.
A short hike to Fond Diable reveals a reveling secret few journalists ever see: the double ocean view of La Digue, Felicite Island, and Baie of St. Anne (largest safe harbor of the Indian Ocean, once slated for the center of a massive US military base but now preserved for the green sea turtles and black parrot). For the curious, the Old Pirate Oven dating back to the 17th century was quite possibly a hide out for Olivier Le Vasseur “La Buse” as he was on the run from authorities of St. Denis who eventually had his head but not his treasure – the Golden Cross of Goa. Once here, one can explore these unique sites and numerous unique pirate-era artifacts.
The old plantation has blended perfectly into a lovely hotel with all units for families and couples positioned along the ocean, and the beach is cute and offers time to explore nature. The old Distillery and Copra house offer the most intact vestiges of the plantation era and is a National Heritage Site.
The Restaurant La Buse is an award-winning establishment offering fine Creole cuisine and international items. The fusion is ideal for travelers and locals alike. The wine list offers something for the humble and discerning tastes.
The bungalows are large and spacious, offering daily service and comfort. The value is perhaps the best Praslin can offer, and is the reason why this fine address is a must-stop on Praslin for those that would like to get away from big crowds, noise, and hassles; the hotel’s safety label is second to none.
Des Palmes would be honored to welcome travelers to in the true Seychellois spirit and heart!
