Paradise perfected on Platte Island.
Forget Bora Bora, move over Maldives, and cast your Robinson Crusoe fantasies aside. The latest ode to barefoot luxury is the Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island. Having opened earlier this year, this secluded private island resort in the Seychelles archipelago redefines tranquillity and elevates indulgence to an art form.
First impressions
Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island redefines the concept of tropical luxury, offering an exclusive, eco-friendly retreat infused with elegance and serenity. It's a place where pristine white sands meet lush tropical foliage and crystal-clear waters stretch as far as the eye can see. From private plane charters to personal concierges, this property redefines everything we know (and love) about the historic Waldorf Astoria brand.
Situated 130 kilometre south of the capital, Mahé, a scenic flight over the ocean sets the tone with the staff warmly welcoming guests to the 14-square-kilometre island sanctuary, formally a coconut plantation. Platte Island (meaning 'flat' in French) is bisected by a 1,000-metre airfield that cuts the island in half, dividing the lush tropical interiors from the clusters of villas strategically located around the shoreline.
The check-in process is refreshingly seamless, with each guest greeted personally by a dedicated concierge. A quick orientation introduces you to the island's layout and myriad activities, but the real magic lies in simply immersing yourself in the seemingly endless horizons of turquoise waters and verdant palms.
Island Idyll
Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island boasts a selection of 50 sea-facing villas, each designed to reflect the island's natural surroundings. From the One Bedroom Hawksbill Pool Villas to the Five Bedroom Eagle Ray Pool Villa, there's a soothing balance of modern luxury and authentic island charm.
The fan-shaped interiors radiate modern, understated elegance. They feature wooden floors, palm-patterned cushions, and bathrooms in warm, earthy tones, while chic furnishings echo the ocean's colour palette. Small touches surprise, such as the Aesop bath products, deep soaking tubs, and the discreet delivery of waterproof shoes. Names are clipped to bicycles without us even being aware.
Villas are some of the most spectacular we've seen with floor-to-ceiling concertina doors let in natural light and lead to garden terraces with a private plunge pool, open-air shower, and views that leave anyone speechless. Each villa is set back from the beach so as not to disturb the nesting turtles.
Culinary Canvas
Dining at Waldorf Astoria Platte Island is nothing short of extraordinary. Here, chefs take inspiration from the bountiful ocean and the rich Seychellois culture, transforming every meal into an an orchestrated affair. La Perle is the hotel's main restaurant, a Mediterranean brasserie where fresh, locally sourced seafood shines from breakfast all the way through to dinner.
Maison des Epices serves up a spirited fusion of exotic spices and Creolatino culture. For those seeking adventure and celebration, this vibrant beachfront dinner destination awakens the senses with dynamic gastronomy, captivating art, and an atmosphere brimming with character. Pineapple-shaped lights, distressed mirrors, and tiling resembling bamboo set a tropical tone, while the rum bar turns out its own infusions of local rum. The menu features ostrich skewers, breadfruit puree, heart of palm salad, and curry leaf bread.
Moulin crafts a refined soil-to-soul dining experience from daily harvests gathered from its pharmacy garden. The greenhouse setting is the stage for this zero-waste concept, where skins are transformed into powders and fruits into kombucha. It's very Noma-esque in its philosophy, where the show plates are mini maps of the island, and each dish celebrates nature's abundance, showcasing how fresh, thoughtfully sourced ingredients can enhance both flavour and well-being.
Overlooking the main pool, rooftop hotspot Lalin enchants with an ethereal allure. A direct translation of the word "moon," this dream-like Champagne bar, seemingly suspended between heaven and Earth, is the highest point on the island. Jutting out towards the shoreline with a wooden ceiling embedded with twinkling stars, Lalin offers an evening of swing seats, curated cocktails, and bar bites that set the tone for an evening of adventure.
Beyond the Beach
Platte Island isn't just about lounging on pristine beaches (although there's plenty of that to be done). The resort offers activities for the adventurous spirit. Dive into the crystal-clear waters and explore the vibrant marine life beneath the surface. Kayak to Shark Point at the island's far south or set sail on a sunset cruise. For those interested in marine conservation, the hotel offers guided nature walks to discover the island's unique flora and fauna.
The communal areas are exquisite and range from a coffee bar strung with seashells to an infinity pool with sunken seating and fire pits, which offers a desirable setting for sunset sips or stargazing.
The Waldorf Astoria Spa is a haven of tranquillity for those seeking inner peace, offering a curated menu of rejuvenating treatments inspired by ancient traditions. Designed in the shape of the coco de mer, the spa uses products made from the famed Seychellois plant. Expect traditional and modern treatments, complemented by a range of serene indoor and outdoor amenities, including steam rooms, a sauna made from blocks of Himalayan salt, and plunge pools set on a palm-studded lawn overlooking the ocean. Each treatment takes place in a private pavilion.
The Waldorf Touch
True to the Waldorf Astoria legacy, service at Platte Island is impeccable. From the moment you step off the plane (or rather, your private seaplane transfer), you're enveloped in a warm embrace of Seychellois hospitality. A dedicated concierge caters to your every whim, ensuring your stay is seamless and stress-free. Whether it's arranging a romantic sunset cruise or simply ensuring your favourite drink awaits by the pool, the staff at Platte Island anticipates your needs before you even have to ask. Many of the staff come from the Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah, so are adept when it comes to Middle Eastern guests.
The Verdict
The Waldorf Astoria Platte Island is a sustainable sanctuary that offers a slice of the Seychelles in its purest form. The 3.3 kilometre island offers plenty of areas for exploration, including dense palm groves and giant tortoise habitat. This island paradise is the definition of ultra-luxe and the ultimate destination for those who appreciate the finer things in life—and a little barefoot luxury on the side. It may be pricey, but the experience is next-level luxe.
GO: Visit www.hilton.com for reservations and more information.