On a particularly tranquil and self-contained corner of Praslin, lies the award-winning Relais & Chateaux resort of Lémuria, tucked into tropical forests nudging onto three flawless beaches. Sister hotel to Constance Le Prince Maurice in Mauritius, Lémuria takes the concept of deluxe eco-tourism to extremes, with architecture blending perfectly into the surroundings and the highest regard for the local ecology and environment.
The first five star resort in the Seychelles, Lémuria goes from strength to strength. Simplicity and elegance are the keywords for a stunning design that incorporates natural materials such as thatched roofs, polished woods and gleaming marble. Within a few steps of the shore lie the 96 suites and 8 sublime villas, each a masterpiece of sleek minimalism concealed within a deceptively rustic exterior. The villas lie directly on the beachfront, building on the overriding theme of escapist luxury with private pools, bathrooms with open air baths, massage pavilions, private butlers and second bedrooms ideal for families.
Three restaurants offer cuisine ranging from Mediterranean, Indian and Creole to the delicious flavours of the sea at the Beach Bar and Grill. Such is Lémuria's concern for the environment that the restaurant dims its lights so as not to disturb the turtles laying their eggs in the sand. Lémuria is paradise for sun worshippers, with welcoming hammocks strung up in the shade of palm trees and a spectacular swimming pool cascading down three levels over smooth granite boulders. Golfers will revel in the resort's challenging 18 hole course while non-golfers cannot fail to be diverted by the extensive water sports and the floodlit tennis courts. For total surrender of the senses, there is also the blissful Shiseido Spa Pavilion.
A free children's club will entertain youngsters aged between four and twelve between 9am and 9pm in the evening. An unusual combination of sophistication and family friendliness, Lémuria is also the perfect example of restraint. To preserve the secret third beach, voted one of the world's most beautiful, access remains only by boat or by a winding path through the golf course. No development will mar its unspoilt charm and with this sort of reassurance, guests can relax in the knowledge that their luxury holiday is not at a cost to the environment.










