The Seychelles is a gorgeous group of 112 islands located off of East Africa. For many Americans, they are an unknown treasure. However, when searching for a tropical destination for a honeymoon that is Zika free, these islands are one of the very few destinations without an outbreak. A perfect honeymoon spot, the weather is mostly always in the 80s during the day and 70s at night with a warm tropical breeze. While the archipelago is made up of 112 islands, there are a two or three bigger islands and a few small ones most people visit. Just a six hour plane ride from Johannesburg to the main island of Mahe´ aboard Air Seychelles, we chose to split our time between three amazing resorts, the Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort and Spa on Mahe´ and the Hilton Labriz Resort and Spa and La Belle Tortue on Silhouette Island. 
If you are looking for a very romantic, adults only and secluded getaway with the option to see attractions on the big island, the Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort and Spa is the place to stay. We never left the resort because it had what we needed – the gorgeous Indian Ocean, perfect for snorkeling, and views of the North Island. The villa is also incredibly romantic with an outdoor terrace, perfect for stargazing at night and relaxing and sipping a drink during the day. There are also suites available with your own private pool. 
The spa consists of three luxurious rooms with sweeping views, perfect for a couple’s treatment or a little downtime to yourself. The resort also offers free shuttles to other beaches around the island. The beauty of this and the other Hilton property on Silhouette Island is that you can choose half or full board, so when you get there most or all of your meals will be included so you can order freely off the menus. The food is top quality with a Creole influence.
Even though the Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort and Spa is located on the main island, it does feel secluded. However, if you want the private island experience, take the ferry that Hilton offers to Silhouette Island and stay at the Hilton Labriz Resort and Spa, where you will be staying at the only resort on the island. The only other property on the island is the quaint La Belle Tortue. They are completely different in feel and offerings. 
The Hilton Labriz Resort and Spa is a family friendly resort but you can definitely find plenty of spots away from the kids to enjoy your own time. There are villas with ocean views as well as ones with your own private lush jungle in the back that includes a pool, outdoor shower, and hammock. There are a variety of restaurants so if you are staying on the island for many days, you’ll always have something new to eat. Gran Kazz is set on the plantation where the former owners of the island, the Dauban family, used to live. 
They serve traditional Creole dishes that reflect the culture of the island including curries and fish wrapped in banana leafs. The other dining options include a Teppanyaki and Japanese restaurant, Italian and a buffet with a different type of cuisine each night. With a scuba shop and activity center on site, you can take advantage of scuba and snorkeling day trips, private beach excursions and picnics and a Creole cooking class where you will cook your own lunch. Tucked away at the end of the resort is the spa, with an outdoor jacuzzi and plunge pool to use before or after treatments. The treatment rooms for both couples and individuals sit atop the lush surroundings. The beach on Silhouette Island is calm and shallow for many feet out into the ocean, perfect for floating with a drink or collecting shells. 
Just a short walk from the Hilton Labriz Resort and Spa sits the very quaint and friendly La Belle Tortue. Managed by Julie and Morgan, they make you feel welcome the second you step off the ferry or come over from the Hilton. Some people choose to stay at both properties for a few days each to experience the island differently. With just fifteen guests on property, they are a luxury lodge that caters to each guest. The dining experience is intimate with Morgan cooking all the meals and Julie serving. The food is prepared to your dietary needs and preferences and the dishes are amazing. You can tell much thought and preparation is put into each one. Morgan comes from a culinary background. 
In addition to his title as general manager and chef at Belle Tortue, he is the owner and partner of the restaurant, Les Epicuriens, located in Nice on the French Riviera. On property, you can enjoy dishes such as octopus carpaccio and croquette, accrues shark on a red sauce pepper with sweet potatoes and plantains. You’re in for a culinary treat at this boutique property.
So if you’re looking for a romantic tropical getaway, check out the Seychelles. If you have the time, pair it with a few days in South Africa for the perfect mix of relaxation and a safari adventure!
