Seychelles: Family Fun and Nature on Silhouette Island

The Seychelles often feels like a world away, even after a long flight. This archipelago in the Indian Ocean is truly a dream destination, renowned for its stunning beaches and unique island landscapes. While the main island of Mahé has its charm, exploring some of the more secluded spots truly unlocks the magic. I found Silhouette Island, a short boat ride from the busier parts of Mahé, to be a revelation. It’s a place where nature takes center stage, from the dramatic volcanic peaks cloaked in jungle to the incredibly clear waters.

Discovering Silhouette Island

Getting to Silhouette Island is part of the adventure. A pleasant 30-minute boat trip brings you to this serene escape. As you approach, the island’s cone-shaped silhouette rises dramatically from the ocean, its slopes covered in lush, dense jungle. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you can feel its ancient energy. The island is home to a small community, just a handful of people, alongside the famous giant tortoises. It feels like stepping into a different era, far removed from the usual tourist trails.

Your Secluded Island Home

Our accommodation on Silhouette Island was at the Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa, a property that champions a back-to-nature approach. What struck me immediately was the feeling of privacy. The resort is composed entirely of villas, scattered along a beautiful stretch of white sand beach. Waking up to the view of Mount Dauban looming poetically backdrop adds to the sense of tranquility. This seclusion is precisely what I was looking for, offering a peaceful contrast to the livelier atmosphere of Mahé.

Impeccable Villa Comfort

The King Deluxe Beachfront Pool Villa perfectly blended rustic island charm with modern comforts. Dark wood furnishings and elegant mosquito nets draped over the bed created a romantic, colonial feel. The 300-thread-count sheets were an indulgent touch, making for incredibly restful nights. The living area flowed seamlessly onto a private deck, shaded by slender palm trees. This outdoor space was a highlight, featuring a refreshing plunge pool, a beachfront hammock perfect for lazy afternoons, and a delightful dining area. Direct access to the ocean from the villa was unforgettable; it felt like stepping right out of a postcard into crystal-clear waters.

Inside the villa, the bathroom was a luxurious sanctuary. A deep, circular tub, cleverly integrated into natural stonework, was the centerpiece. Double vanities and a separate WC added practical elegance. The rainfall shower, enclosed by glass panels, offered a modern touch without detracting from the distinctly Seychellois aesthetic. It was a space designed for ultimate relaxation after a day exploring the island.

Culinary Delights Await

The resort offers an impressive array of dining options, catering to every mood and craving. With seven distinct restaurants, you’re spoiled for choice. Whether seeking an intimate, fine-dining experience or a casual family meal, there’s something to satisfy everyone. This variety ensured we could explore different flavors each night without ever leaving the resort, a real luxury after long days of activity.

Global Flavors, Island Setting

Sakura provided an exciting Pan Asian experience. Dining in a traditional Japanese-style pagoda, complete with the dramatic visual of flames from the open kitchen, was an entertaining start to meals. The teppanyaki counter, suspended above the lagoon, added to the spectacle, drawing crowds eager to watch the culinary artistry unfold. Watching the stingrays gracefully swim beneath the illuminated counter was a mesmerizing bonus, blending the thrill of dining with the natural beauty surrounding us.

For those seeking Italian elegance, Portobello is the place to be. The sophisticated ambiance made it perfect for a special evening. Dishes like a hearty lamb ragu and an earthy mushroom risotto were expertly prepared and served, highlighting the restaurant’s commitment to quality. The friendly front-of-house team contributed significantly to the memorable dining experience, making us feel welcomed and well-cared for.

Celebrating Local Tastes

Cafe Dauban, named after the historic family who once owned Silhouette Island, is where the day begins with an abundant breakfast buffet. My favorite part was the endless array of tropical fruits, perfectly ripe and wonderfully sweet. The local honey selection, especially the cardamom-infused variety, was a delightful discovery. Live stations for eggs, pancakes, and waffles meant we could customize our breakfast exactly as we liked. Enjoying this spread on the terrace overlooking the swimming pool was an idyllic way to start each morning.

The poolside bars Aria and Lo Brizan offered lighter fare, including delicious pizzas and international favorites, complemented by creative cocktails. But for a truly unforgettable experience, The Four Degrees became our go-to. This rum shack and beach bar, with tables set directly on the sand, truly embraced the island’s laid-back spirit. Enjoying beachside BBQ favorites while the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with fiery colors, was pure magic. The casual atmosphere, the sound of the waves, and the friendly service made it a perfect spot to unwind. It was here, watching the tiny crabs scuttle across the sand, that I felt a genuine connection to the natural rhythm of the island.

A Creole Heritage Evening

Grann Kaz offered a profound connection to the island’s past. Housed within the restored plantation house of the Dauban family, this restaurant celebrates the rich Creole heritage of the Seychelles. Dining here was an opportunity to savor authentic local flavors and immerse ourselves in the island’s history. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, a perfect setting to reflect on the day’s adventures.

Restorative Escapes and Fun

The eforea Spa, an award-winning outpost of Hilton’s wellness brand, is a sanctuary hidden within the island’s lush interior. Tucked away in a jungle enclave, this adults-only haven offers a complete escape from the everyday. The spa facilities include a sauna, steam room, and hammam, perfect for unwinding. I indulged in a range of tropical treatments using ELEMIS products. A massage in one of the wooden pavilions, situated above the tree canopy, was heavenly. The therapists’ skilled hands worked out every knot, leaving me feeling completely rejuvenated. It was the ultimate pampering session, surrounded by the serene sounds of nature.

Activities for Everyone

The resort’s main swimming pool is a large, inviting space surrounded by comfortable loungers and umbrellas, making it ideal for families. Our children, Lily and Ethan, absolutely loved splashing around here. The beach itself is simply stunning—soft, powdery white sand that gives way to clear, calm blue waters. Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, it provided hours of fun for all of us. For those who enjoy staying active, the well-equipped fitness center and tennis courts were great amenities. The kids’ club was also a hit, keeping Lily and Ethan entertained with a variety of fun activities, giving Michael and me some much-needed downtime.

What adventures await families?

There are plenty of opportunities for exploration. Whether it’s building sandcastles on the pristine beach or discovering the resort’s in-house art gallery, there’s a sense of discovery around every corner. For a family looking for a blend of relaxation and active pursuits, this resort truly delivers with its diverse offerings.

Even with all the resort activities, we made sure to explore the island itself. Simply walking along the long stretch of sandy shoreline offered endless discoveries, from interesting shells to unique rock formations.

Exploring Beyond the Resort

Silhouette Island offers a unique chance to explore a different side of the Seychelles. The main settlement, La Passe, is a charming glimpse into local life, with its dive center and traditional village homes. It’s a place where you can connect with the few locals who still call Silhouette home, gaining insight into their way of life. The pace here is noticeably slower, more in tune with the natural environment.

Island Trails and Wildlife

For the more adventurous, hiking trails crisscross the island. I highly recommend hiring a local guide, especially if you plan to visit more remote settlements like Grand Barbe. It’s here you have the chance to see the rare Seychelles giant tortoises up close. Our guide, who had an amazing story about transitioning from a career in Dubai to life on Silhouette, shared his deep knowledge of the island’s native flora and fauna. He taught us about eating the heart of the palm, a truly unique experience that connected us directly to the island’s ecosystem. The volcanic landscape, characterized by black lava rocks, adds another layer to the island’s rugged beauty.

How can you see the giant tortoises?

The island is a sanctuary for these magnificent creatures. Guided tours are the best way to ensure you see them in their natural habitat and learn about conservation efforts, making for an educational and exciting outing for the whole family.

Encountering these ancient reptiles in their natural environment was a highlight of our trip. Their sheer size and peaceful demeanor are truly awe-inspiring, and learning about their importance to the island’s ecosystem added significant depth to the experience.

A Natural Paradise Verdict

After opening its doors a decade ago, coinciding with the island’s designation as a national park, Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa feels perfectly at home. Its rustic castaway charm is undeniable, harmonizing with the landscape of granite peaks, dense jungles, and pristine white-sand beaches. The resort seamlessly integrates into its surroundings, paying a beautiful homage to the island’s natural environment. It offers a back-to-nature stay that doesn’t compromise on comfort, with a firm focus on family fun.

This remote resort truly is an ideal island escape. For those seeking more seclusion and a deep connection with nature than you might find on the adjacent Mahé, Silhouette Island is an exceptional choice. It’s a place that stays with you long after you’ve departed, a reminder of the profound beauty and tranquility that exists in the world. For us, it was a much-needed escape that the whole family cherished.