Make your way to one of the most secluded islands in the Seychelles archipelago for a getaway that’s equal parts adventurous, relaxing, sophisticated and chic.

By Jessica Poitevien | February 29, 2024

When it comes to far-flung destinations that offer the perfect mix of serenity and adventure, the Seychelles is top of the list. Home to a vibrant culture and natural beauty to match, this archipelago in the Indian Ocean has 115 islands teeming with wildlife and dreamy clear water. Astute travelers often choose Platte Island as their home base. Located about 81 miles (130 kilometers) away from any other island, the atoll offers a truly peaceful paradise, complete with its fair share of exclusive experiences.

Excitement on the water

The beauty of Platte Island is apparent from the moment you arrive, starting with the vibrant turquoise ocean that surrounds it. Take a dip in the warm, welcoming water, and you’ll immediately understand why discerning travelers looking to unwind flock to this mesmerizing destination. But the crystal-clear water offers more than a refreshing swim and an awe-inspiring backdrop. It’s also the perfect place for an elevated adventure.

Enjoy a private kite surfing lesson where you can glide across the ocean’s surface or go deeper with a scuba diving session amongst the colorful fish and coral. If fishing is more your speed, charter a boat for the ultimate catch-and-cook experience. Platte Island also offers unparalleled opportunities for fly fishing — another activity that can be led by a local guide who knows the prime locations for the best catch. Plan your getaway around the seasonal migrations of certain marine life to catch a glimpse of your favorite animal, including whale sharks and humpback whales.

With a stay at the newly opened Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island, you’re never far from the shore and all its wonders. The concierge can arrange for you to enjoy your favorite watersport (or help you discover a new favorite), set off on a local fishing experience or whale-watching tour, as well as numerous eco-conscious activities offered by the resort. With expert guides at the helm, you can admire nesting sea turtles, plant coral and learn about the resort’s solar farms, recycling efforts and other eco-friendly practices. You can also take private guided trips to explore beyond the ocean and into the lagoon, where a different set of wildlife awaits, including a variety of birds that can be found throughout the island.

The outdoor fun continues after nightfall with the resort also offering guided stargazing sessions and alfresco movie nights perfect for winding down after a thrilling day of exploration.

Rest and recharge

Balance all the unique adventures with quality relaxation by experiencing secluded beaches lined with lush palm trees, covered in white sand and surrounded by vibrant blue water. Listen as tropical birds sing their distinct songs and feel the soft breeze cooling you down just enough to truly enjoy the warming sunshine overhead. This is the tranquil, stress-melting setting that Platte Island offers to the travelers that arrive on its shores.

Whether your idea of recharging means lounging on a beach or in the comfort of your seafront villas, or you prefer a more active approach to wellness with oceanfront sunrise yoga classes, it’s all available on Platte Island. For guests at Waldorf Astoria Platte Island, the opportunities for unwinding also include an outdoor pool with plush sunbeds, private cabanas and a nearby bar for refreshing drinks. Meanwhile, active travelers can head to the open-air fitness studio for a variety of guided classes and activities or hit the courts for a round of tennis — traditional or padel.

No wellness experience is complete without a trip to the spa and the one at Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island is particularly soothing. Utilizing the latest treatment technology along with more traditional high-touch therapies, Waldorf Astoria Spa takes a holistic approach to caring for guests. Start with rejuvenating thermal experiences, including sauna, steam and hydrotherapy, before indulging in a personalized treatment that infuses local ingredients like organic seaweed and coconut. With a focus on breathwork and inner balance, the spa’s guided meditation and mindfulness sessions are the ideal way to wrap up your rejuvenating experience.

Flavorful Creole cuisine

A variety of European, Asian and African countries have left their mark on the Seychelles, creating a mixture of religion, language and culture that is unique to the island nation. Nowhere is that more apparent than in Seychellois Creole cuisine. Freshly caught seafood is the star of many traditional dishes and is prepared in several ways from steamed and salted to grilled and wrapped in banana leaves. Rice is a staple, both as a main and side dish, while other hallmarks of this delectable cuisine include the use of bold spices like curry and garlic, as well as coconut milk. Octopus curry is a local favorite and a dish not to be missed.

With six restaurants and bars offering sustainable, garden-to-table dining, guests at Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island can delight in Creole fare, along with internationally inspired dishes. Maison des Epices is the place to dine for a taste of Creole-Latin fusion. The evening-only eatery has live cooking stations and is focused on family-style service, so you can easily sample a wide variety of dishes. For elevated light bites, head to Lalin, where you can sip on Champagne and treat your taste buds to tapas.

The resort’s poolside eatery Torti is perfect for a casual chic lunch, offering bento boxes and sushi, plus tropical drinks and fruity ice cream with a side of live entertainment. Breakfast lovers shouldn’t skip mornings at La Perle with its health-conscious options and craft coffee, but the restaurant offers an equally tempting dinner service with Mediterranean dishes.

For the sophisticated traveler looking for a secluded island escape, a place where they can refresh their mind and body, the Seychelles provides the perfect sanctuary. Whether in search of adventure, wildlife encounters, serene days spent on the beach, sumptuous spa treatments, a foodie haven or all of the above, you’ll surely leave Platte Island feeling fully satisfied.

Jessica Poitevien is an international storyteller with more than a decade of experience in writing and editing. Born in New York, she caught the travel bug throughout multiple moves that brought her to California, Spain, Colombia and her current home base in South Florida. She has visited over 40 countries (and counting!), including several solo trips, and also considers herself an expert in destination weddings and unique honeymoons — her own was two months long. When she's not traveling, she enjoys making social media content, trying new food and acting as a travel agent for friends and family.