Banyan Tree in Seychelles is a sanctuary for the senses! Nestled in Intendance Bay with spectacular views of the Indian Ocean, one of the world's most beautiful beaches, swaying palm trees and lush tropical forest, Banyan Tree Seychelles provides a rare taste of perfection. For the very best of Seychellois architecture, its 36 stunning pool villas combine contemporary, colonial and 'plantation' decor. High sloping ceilings, airy verandas, louvered doors and ethnic woven textiles provide a true sense of place and allow you to experience Banyan Tree's signature blend of romance, rejuvenation and exotic sensuality in Seychellois style.

Location: Banyan Tree Seychelles is in Intendance Bay on Mahe Island, 30 minutes by car from Mahe International Airport and 45 minutes from the capital, Victoria. Mahe offers the perfect introduction to the Seychelles with its steep mountain backbone, slopes carpeted with lush tropical vegetation and sweeping coastline fringed by palm trees. The resort covers an area of 117 hectares on the island's southwestern coastline with a fabulous, 800-metre beach frontage overlooking what has been described as one of the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world.

Accommodation:

BEACHFRONT POOL VILLAS: At the Beachfront Pool Villas, the pervasive esprit of the Seychelles fills the air. You cannot fail to be enchanted by the sights and sounds of the ocean - from the powerful swell of the sea breaking on the reef to the gentle lapping on the water's edge. The one­bedroom villas are extremely luxurious and spacious, giving the convenience of a private swimming pool, massage pavilion, sprawling veranda, outdoor jacuzzi and steam room. Local artist George Camille was commis­sioned to produce unique art pieces based on the legendary coco-de-mer, the world's largest nut, adding to the exotic splendour of these romantic villas. A delightful villa garden offers direct access to the silky-soft beach.

HILLSIDE POOL VILLA: If you prefer an elevated position high on the hill with glorious ocean views and serene rainforest all around, the Hillside Pool Villa is the perfect choice. Its inspired architecture and furnishings reflect the natural style of the Seychelles through the use of indigenous materials. A small private swimming pool, veranda with sun loungers and open-air pavilion invite you to leave the world behind.

PRESIDENTIAL VILLA: For the ultimate in luxury, stay at the exquisite Presidential Villa, which occupies its very own private cove by the water's edge. No expense has been spared at this secret hideaway. You can entertain on a lavish scale - there is a grand entrance under a parte cochere, a free-form infinity pool carved into! the granite boulders, an outdoor jacuzzi andl shower, a large sundeck and living pavilion," and a dining pavilion with a kitchen and guest bathroom. The Presidential Villa can be combined with the adjoining Hillside Pool Villa to create a sprawling two-bedroom\ complex.

Dining: Sample delicious Creole delicacies at AI Jardin D'Epices where you can sink you" teeth into succulent seafood creations and experience the fine blend of spices, coconut dishes and curries that the Seychelles are famous for. Alternatively, visit Saffron and enter the fascinating world of South East Asia. We can arrange a romantic outdoor barbecue for you on the beach, prepare a picnic hamper for an excursion, or simply pamper you on a lazy day with our extensive in-villa-dining menu.

Activities: Fitness and water sport facilities include snorkelling, deep-sea fishing, water-skiing, and windsurfing; excursions.

Best time to travel: The climate is pleasant and mild throughout the year. Temperatures range from 24° C to ]]' C and are not subject to sharp variations. The wettest month of the year is January and the driest is July.

Getting there: More and more airlines are flying to the Seychelles, so we will try to get a direct flight to Mahe for you. An island representative will await you. There is a USD 20 departure !ox.