Description

A tranquil retreat tucked into a lush tropical grove, just steps from the Indian Ocean.
While the Seychelles isn’t exactly short on beaches, some make your jaw drop. This is one of them: sand as soft as icing sugar, water in jewel tones. Barbarons Beach is part of AVANI Barbarons Seychelles Resort, a peaceful hideout on the west coast of Mahé – the only retreat on this coastal stretch. The sandy crescent is encircled by a wall of emerald foliage, concealing low-slung rooms and suites made from indigenous materials.

A bedroom-to-beach vibe means you’re always only steps from the ocean: wake up with a refreshing dip or take a cooling afternoon bathe as respite from the balmy sun. Rooms and suites are bright and breezy, with African-inspired furnishings and lots of gleaming wood, accented with splashes of blue in shades of the sea. Pick an Avani Beachfront Room for easy access to the palm-fringed shore – or go all out with an Avani Ocean View Suite for double the space and a private balcony.

It’s all about laid-back luxury here: indulge in a decadent spa massage (try the blissful Comfort Zone Tranquility Body Ritual) followed by a glass of bubbly at the only Laurent-Perrier Champagne lounge in the Seychelles. Work your way through the hotel’s six dining options: highlights include fresh seafood at the ocean-view Elements and Pan Asian plates on the waterside deck at Tamarind. Later, linger over drinks at chilled day-to-night hangout Gravity – the best spot for catching a staggering sunset.

Key information
Tucked into an idyllic bay, on the west coast of Mahé Airport transfer time:Approx. 30 minutes from Mahé airport Rooms:124
Good to know
Minimum stay: 4 nights 26 Dec-03 Jan. Compulsory New Year’s Eve gala dinner, supplement applies.

Accommodation information
124 rooms and suites

Activities
• Whip up a sizzling Creole dish at an island cookery class* • Explore the Seychelles archipelago on a scenic boat trip* • Go horse riding at sunset along Barbarons beach* • Stretch it out with beachside yoga.

Dining
3 restaurants, 2 bars

What’s included
Breakfast at Elements.

Meal upgrade options (per person per night)
Half Board from £54 • Breakfast at Elements • Dinner at Elements or Tamarind (reservation required; set menu applies)

Full Board from £94 • Breakfast at Elements • Lunch and dinner at Elements or Tamarind (reservation required; set menu applies).