Once an uninhabited coconut plantation, the upscale Waldorf Astoria brand has transformed Platt Island into a luxurious private island resort with a focus on conserving and protecting its natural beauty and marine life. Formed within the crater of an ancient volcano, the bowl-shaped lagoon within which the island sits, provides the ideal environment for marine life to thrive. Home to hawksbill turtles, many species of ray, shark, and crab, along with exotic birdlife, Platt Island is ideal for eco-conscious travellers seeking an immersive natural adventure without compromising on luxury. With the focus on sustainability, a solar farm provides 95% of the resort’s power and there is a desalination and water recycling system.
Mosquito-free, Platt Island is part of the Seychelles. A tiny dot within the vast Indian Ocean, the entire island and can be walked in an hour. Guests stay in one of 50 beautifully appointed sea-facing villas, all with 24-hour personal concierge, spacious terrace with private pool, separate living room, Wi-Fi, King beds, and generous bathrooms. The décor is infused with understated elegance, decorated in earthy tones, with fabulous art, fine furnishings, and tropical views. The villas range from one to five ensuite bedrooms, sleeping up to 10 guests. All are set back from the shoreline leaving space for the sea turtles to lay their eggs, and many villas have turtles nesting in the garden.
There is an emphasis on farm-to-table cuisine in the six restaurants and bars, which feature both local and international dishes. Mediterranean brasserie, La Perle, serves sustainably sourced seafood, or head to Moulin for soil-to-soul plant-based dining, while Maison des Epices offers fabulous Creole flavours. Lalin, the classy champagne bar, is a great spot to watch the sun go down, while the Peacock Terrace serves drinks and snacks throughout the day. Alternatively, Torti delivers poolside drinks and sushi snacks.
Along with a gym featuring Technogym equipment, open air fitness studio, tennis and padel courts, guests can revive mind, body, and soul at the spa. Alongside bookable treatments, there’s a sauna, steam room, hydrotherapy facilities, yoga, and guided meditation to restore inner balance and calm.
With a resident Environmental Manager and marine biologist, expect an emphasis on conservation programmes and one-of-a-kind nature-based activities. Enjoy morning patrol walks searching for new turtle nests, guided reef walks to meet baby shark and rays and helping with coral planting. This is a wonderful destination for a family holiday with both a Sea Scouts Kids Club and Marine Mavericks Teen Club, offering a range of age-appropriate activities such as cooking classes, silent discos, and bonfire storytelling. Elsewhere, guests can enjoy activities that include kitesurfing, fly fishing, scuba diving, and water sports.
