Some 30km from the main island of Mahé, Ile du Nord, or North Island, enjoys private seclusion within the Inner Island group of the Seychelles. Its luminous white beaches surround a tropical interior of coconut palms and takamaka trees in turn cradled between three granite outcrops, and surrounded by the azure ocean. Such natural beauty is added to by thoughtful and environmentally friendly architecture.
CONSERVATION
A sanctuary for discerning travelers seeking a bespoke personalized experience that evokes complete relaxation in one of the world's most biologically diverse and important areas.
THE ISLAND PIAZZA
This is the natural focal point of the Island, where elegant buildings cluster about a magnificent Indian almond tree. The activity centre, located on the beachfront and housing both indoor and outdoor tuition areas, changing rooms and interesting displays, is where many of the Island’s land and marine activities are coordinated.
Adjacent to the deck of the centre is the library. Built of coral blocks, it is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular examples of architecture on the Island and was already standing when construction of the lodge began. Now, with its exterior walls renovated and its roof replaced, it houses a collection of books on topics of interest, various relics and artefacts as well as a computer offering internet. Some 20 meter distance offering from the library are the lounge and dining areas, offering a high degree of comfort and also unforgettable views of the sea and mountains.
From here, a walkway over the pond leads to the wine cellar, followed immediately by a private dining sala. The bar joins the dining area and the lounge stands not far away in the restful shade of a takamaka tree. Further up the mountain and hidden from the lounge and dining area is the main pool, a 45m long pool that looks over the pool deck to the horizon of the sea, creating views of heart-stopping beauty.
HOME AWAY FROM HOME
North Island is unashamedly aimed at providing the very best in privacy, location,accommodation, services, facilities and experience. Its 11 Villas have been built using, where possible, materials reaped from the rehabilitation process. In doing this the aim has been to capture the essence of “barefoot luxury”. Each Presidential Villa measures 450 square metres (4 890 square feet) giving guests enough room to spread out and enjoy a unique, private, islandstyle experience to the full. Each was individually handcrafted by Seychellois and African craftsmen on the Island from wood, local stone and glass, with thatched roofs that complete the magnificent design and is completely self-contained, raised over a meter off the ground to catch the cooling island breezes.
THE SPA
The North Island spa is located in inspiring surroundings, overlooking turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. North Island's Spa provides a unique treatment offering specially designed for North Island and its guests. We incorporate all local products into our treatments which in turn are tailor made to suit the specific needs of the guest. In keeping with North Island’s concept of tailor made service, guests can receive certain treatments in the privacy of their own Villa on request.
ACTIVITIES
The activities offered on North Island are designed to allow our guests to enjoy the island and its magic, either under guidance from one of the staff, or alone. You have the freedom to move around the Island at your own pace, either on foot, on North Island bicycles, or by Island Buggies. These activities have a minimal impact on the environment whilst providing the enjoyment of entertainment and exercise.
SCUBA DIVING
Seychelles forms part of the world’s longest coral reef system and has some of the world’s best scuba diving sites. Numerous dive sites have been identified around North Island and its nearest neighbour, Silhouette Island. North Island offers a "guided" scuba experience and the dive masters are not only experts in scuba practices but also in the underwater world. The North Island dive school and fishermen are experienced professionals who inspire confidence with both uninitiated and seasoned guests alike.
SNORKELLING
There are excellent snorkelling sites around North Island and Silhouette Island. Masks and fins are available at the Activities Centre for guests wishing to explore these sites, either on their own or in the company of a Activities Center staff member (depending on their snorkelling skills).
SEA KAYAKING
hose wishing to explore the Island from the water are able to do so using sea kayaks, with all necessary tuition and guidance provided. For the more adventurous guests we offer body boards, surf boards and stand-up paddle boards.
THE GYM
Situated next to the spa, our gym is airconditioned and has some of the most spectacular views out to sea. It is well equipped with machines and weights which suit both male and female fitness enthusiasts. YOGA: Private yoga classes can be arranged at the gym or in the comfort of guests’ Villas. Complimentary group classes are also run by our yoga instructors every morning. Yoga mats are provided.
ISLAND BICYCLES
Bicycles are available for guest use. These, in adult and children’s sizes, are suitable for getting from one side of the Island to the other with ease.
ISLAND BUGGIES
Each Villa has its own dedicated Island Buggy. These electrical powered golf cars give guests the freedom to move around the Island.
NORTH ISLAND WEST BEACH BAR
A walk along West Beach as the sun sets is an experience not to be missed – especially as a beautiful beach bar lies in wait at the end of the walk, located just above the high-water mark on the northern end of West Beach.
CRUISE
Enjoying a private sunset cruise around the Island is another way to view the sunset.
FISHING
A fishing excursion is an exciting way to ensure a fresh catch for your next meal – we trawl for yellowfin tuna, dorado, bonito, trevally, red snapper, amongst others. Typically this is a relaxing half-day activity.
BOATING & ISLAND HOPPING
Boating around North Island or other trips can include visits to Mahé, Praslin, La Digue and the outer islands, including the spectacular bird islands, Aride, Cousin and Cousine. These charter trips can be arranged on request.
THE LIBRARY
An extensive natural history library, lovingly renovated out of the old coral ruins, houses a large selection of books and artefacts. Presentations on the marine life, environmental programmes and development of the Island are conducted on alternate days in the library.
SLIDE SHOWS & TALKS
These are available for both adults and children, enabling interested guests to learn about Seychelles and North Island, as well as a wide range of ecological and conservation topics.
TURTLES: Depending on the time of the year, guests may be lucky enough to witness Hawksbill or Green Turtles laying their eggs or these hatching on the beaches of North Island. Researchers tag the turtles so that their breeding activities can be monitored.
WALKING
Explore the Island by walking and hiking along its extensive beaches, or by climbing the granite outcrops and crossing the saddle linking the eastern and western plateau.
THE NORTH ISLAND BOUTIQUE
In the central Piazza area, the North Island Boutique captures the spirit of the island and its barefoot luxury experience; it is a veritable treasure trove allowing guests a chance to take the unique quality of the island home with them. Described as ‘part souk, part shipwreck’ the store has a relaxed gallery-market feel, selling branded North Island clothing and bespoke
products ranging from jewellery, adults’ and children’s apparel, beachwear as well as giftware to remind you of your unforgettable experience on this unique island.
CULINARY CONCEPT
North Island cuisine is based on the very fi nest natural products lovingly prepared in a sumptuous array of exotic dishes. Our kitchen makes use of the vegetable and herb gardens on the island to prepare only the freshest food combinations to reach the table in the dining environment of the guests’ choice. Aside from its exceptional beauty, North Island has long been renowned for its fertility and also for the richness of the fishing grounds wherein it nestles. It is not surprising therefore that North Island draws upon these exceptional natural resources. The cuisine of North Island is based on the diversity and cultural influences which, in part, make up the Seychellois Créole flavour. We have allowed the food concept to grow from a Créole base with French, Indian and African influences, to one of a more global offering. We define our menus daily with specific Creole, French, Italian, Spanish, Japanese and English flare as opposed to influences on a defined food type.
MINIMUM STAY IS BETWEEN 4 TO 7 NIGHTS AND CAN ONLY BE ADVISED UPON REQUEST.
HELICOPTER TRANSFERS ARE COMPULSORY AND ARE TO BE CONFIRMED UPON REQUEST ONLY.
** OTHER SPECIAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY **