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In the middle of the Indian Ocean, 115 islands form the Seychelles, one of the world’s most remote and exotic locations. With beautiful beaches planked by oversized granite boulders, luxury resorts, and even fourleaf- clovers, the Seychelles are a modern-day garden of earthly delights. The smallest of the granite islands, Frégate, is home to one of the most exclusive resorts in the world (only accessible by helicopter from Mahe). Jennifer Aniston and Brad Pitt honeymooned there, as did Paul McCartney. Bill Gates visits every August; most recently, Elizabeth Hurley rented the entire island. Though best known for offering the ultimate in luxury (private beaches, world-class spa, and butler service), the island and its owner (a German billionaire whose identity is unknown) have made conservation a top priority. The government has strictly enforced |
conservation laws since British colonial days and the islands are home to two UNESCO world heritage sites (the world’s largest exposed coral atoll and Vallée de Mai on the island of Preslin, the exact spot thought by some Biblical scholars to be the Garden of Eden). Frégate is just as aggressive in sustaining wildlife and creating a limited carbon footprint – the owner hired a naturalist to bring the seventh most rare bird in the world, the Magpie Robin, back from near extinction. The naturalist has preserved the area hat the Aldabra Giant Tortoise made its own for hundreds of years. In fact, these sea creatures have never known humans to be predators, and so it is
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possible to feed and hug them. During breakfast, I was also able to feed the island’s main bird, the Fairy Tern, out of my hand. A majority of the food is produced through state-of-the-art hydroponics. While most of the hotel industry considers itself “green” if they don’t wash the sheets every day, Frégate Island demonstrates a new standard for environmentally friendly resorts.
THE ROOMS Each guest stays in a one-bedroom villathat includes a large sitting room with television, mini-bar, and bathroom with outdoor shower. The four-poster beds curtained with netting add to the rustic romantic atmosphere. |
Each villa on Frégate Island offers exceptional views of the Indian Ocean, a private pool, teak decks, and day beds.
