In ancient times, wary seafarers travelling from distant lands would find refuge in “stopovers” where they would relax and recover from long journeys before continuing their travels. Based on this concept, the award-winning L’Escale Resort Marina & Spa was created as an exclusive stopover for modern travellers. For us, it was a beautiful introduction to Seychelles, where we recovered from an exhausting overnight flight, before proceeding to explore other parts of the archipelago.
Marina view from the penthouse
The only member of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World portfolio in Seychelles, it was opened in 2021 - making it one of the newest hotels there. Yet, it has already won the award for the Best Boutique Resort in Seychelles 2022 in the International Travel Awards! L’Escale Resort Marina & Spa is also the only hotel in Seychelles with superyacht parking, so guests can sail right up to its dock and walk into the hotel.
Sunset from the penthouse
Overlooking the turquoise waters of the exclusive marina where the superyachts are docked, the hotel stands amid lush gardens and palm trees, against a backdrop of rugged mountains covered with tropical rainforests. Guests are accommodated in 25 suites which include several family-friendly options.
Living Area
On arrival, we were warmly welcomed by the friendly staff with some refreshing iced lemongrass tea, then taken up to the lavish two-bedroom penthouse, our home for two nights. It was perfect for a family of four and consisted of a large open-plan living and dining area between two huge en-suite bedrooms, each with its own dressing room. There was also a kitchen for guests who prefer to have their own private chef.
Penthouse bedroom
The rooms were tastefully decorated with wood panelling, chic furnishings with nautical touches, and well-curated artworks and books, and every room had its own 4K smart television. Wi-fi was available throughout.
Bathroom
The bathrooms had free-standing bathtubs, toilet with bidets, his and hers vanity basins and a stand-alone rain shower. Cushy bathrobes, slippers and deluxe amenities by Hermes were provided.
Eden Island
Sliding doors on both sides opened onto spacious balconies. The main balcony had an al fresco dining and lounging area overlooking Eden Island and the marina while the rear-facing balcony looked out onto Morne Seychellois, the highest mountain in Seychelles. We couldn’t get enough of the magnificent views on both sides.
Mountain view
A Japanese-inspired garden walkway takes one to the Eden Holistic spa, a serene sanctuary, which offers a range of pampering treatments as well as thermal facilities including a steam room, hammam, sauna, jacuzzi and heated pool. It was just what we needed, and we had a blissful time there. The best part was watching the sun set as we soaked in the outdoor jacuzzi on the upper floor. Gym and yoga facilities are available too.
View from the spa
The entrance foyer leads to airy lounging areas and the hotel restaurant, which all open onto a sparkling infinity pool with sun loungers, day beds and a pool bar on the edge of the marina.
Penthouse Living area
The gourmet restaurant serves a combination of international and Creole cuisine. We had delicious breakfasts with eggs royale, masala omelettes, pastries, waffles and fresh fruits. Creole nights are held on Fridays when a 4-course traditional menu is served accompanied by local entertainment. Unfortunately, we were there earlier in the week so we didn’t get to experience it.
Breakfast at L'Escale
As the name suggests, L’Escale Resort Marina & Spa is the ideal stopover in Mahé before or after you visit the rest of Seychelles. However, it also makes a great base for exploring Mahé, either with a guide or by renting a car.
Eden Island from the viewpoint
It is conveniently located close to Mahé International Airport, making it easily accessible via air, sea and land. Eden Island, a man-made island with a shopping mall, restaurants and beaches, is a stone’s throw away, while a short drive will take you to Victoria, the capital city of Seychelles. The concierge desk will be happy to arrange your excursions for you.
Barefoot luxury in a tropical setting doesn’t get any better than this!
For more information, visit L’Escale Resort Marina and Spa or book here.
Disclosure: 1
Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world. Although she has been to 49 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.
WOW! I totally see why this has won the price for the Best Boutique Resort in Seychelles! It looks like such a heavenly place. I wish I could stay there right now!
What a stunning hotel! Need to keep this in mind for my next visit, as this looks to be in a good area, I remember driving by Eden Island and thinking that I'd like to stay nearby next time around, so this looks perfect!
The idea of lodging in a stunning resort situated in such a picturesque location as Seychelles appears to be truly enticing.
This looks beautiful and a nice neutral decor, too! I would love to visit the Seychelles but probably stay somewhere smaller to make my money last longer 🙂 but visit the spa!
Simply beautiful! Seychelles is so gorgeous and this resort looks like the right place to spend time unwinding.