Review: Six Senses Zil Pasyon

This exclusive resort is the only property on Felicité Island in the Seychelles

Location: Situated exclusively on the secluded island of Felicité within the Seychelles archipelago, Six Senses Zil Pasyon stands as the sole property on this pristine paradise among the 115 isles. While most guests opt for a picturesque 20-minute helicopter journey from Mahé to reach the island, arrangements can also be made for a swift speedboat transfer, ensuring seamless access from the neighboring islands of Praslin and La Digue.

First impressions: As Felicité Island unfolds before you, you are instantly transported into a scene reminiscent of a James Bond adventure: sleek villas dotting the hillsides, granite formations framing an untouched stretch of sandy shoreline below. It's a clandestine retreat, perfectly secluded amid the shimmering expanse of the Indian Ocean, exuding an untamed allure coupled with luxurious comforts.

Upon arrival, you are greeted by your designated 'Gem' (guest experience maker) at the jetty, swiftly whisking you away to your villa in an electric buggy, your names playfully scrawled in vibrant chalk on the back. It's a subtle touch that speaks volumes about the resort's effortless charm; Six Senses Zil Pasyon epitomizes laid-back sophistication, effortlessly blending into its surroundings with an air of casual elegance.

The facts: The resort occupies just one third of this one-square-mile island, and in true Six Senses style is done sensitively to its surrounds. The hotel has interfered little with the island’s natural foliage and has very much been built around nature, with villas and communal areas sculpted around hulking boulders and dense jungle. A case in point is the spa, where facilities, including a jaw-dropping open-air saltwater pool, are perched atop and amid towering rocks, connected by winding paths and wooden bridges. A total of 28 one-bedroom villas, two two-bedroom villas and three private residences are dotted across the northwest tip of the island.

At the heart of the property lies its standout feature: the accommodations. Villas are strategically dispersed, offering breathtaking seclusion akin to treehouses amidst the lush foliage teeming with fruit bats. Each villa boasts its own private infinity pool and showcases either mesmerizing sunset or sunrise vistas.

The dining experience is equally remarkable, with two distinct restaurants thoughtfully positioned around a majestic Indian almond tree adorned with whimsical lanterns at the resort's core. Island Café tantalizes taste buds with a fusion of European, Asian, and African cuisine, while Ocean Kitchen, nestled along the oceanfront, presents themed dinners against a picturesque backdrop.

The culinary experience at Six Senses Zil Pasyon upholds a commendable standard, though guests on extended stays may find the selection somewhat lacking in variety. Additionally, an oceanside bar offers an array of tantalizing cocktails, albeit with service occasionally lagging, yet the libations are certainly worth the wait.

For leisure and relaxation, guests can indulge in the outdoor pool area, alongside ample lounging spots scattered throughout the resort. For a truly enchanting experience, securing an overwater hammock for sunset promises unparalleled serenity.

Further amenities include three pristine beaches, which while unfurnished and relatively unattended, offer idyllic seclusion. Additionally, guests can take advantage of the well-equipped gym facilities and a dedicated kids' club, catering to the diverse needs of travelers of all ages.

Ideal for: Those who fancy themselves as modern-day Robinson Crusoes, preferring their luxury with a touch of rugged charm.

Explore: Embark on a day excursion to nearby La Digue—a charming gem among the trio of main inhabited islands—is an essential part of the experience. Just a 15-minute speedboat journey from Felicité, La Digue is best explored on two wheels, as it's the island's primary mode of transport.

The smaller isles encircling Felicité offer an array of captivating activities, from adventurous kayaking expeditions to serene beach barbecues and captivating boat tours.

To culminate their stay with an unforgettable flourish, consider arranging to indulge in the private hilltop sunset experience on their final evening. Here, you will recline on a sofa nestled amidst the rocks, savoring the breathtaking spectacle as the sun gracefully descends into the ocean, all while a dedicated waiter tends to your every need, ensuring glasses are never empty of champagne.

Wow: The dedication of Six Senses to environmental stewardship is truly remarkable. From pioneering turtle conservation initiatives to the establishment of an on-site Earth Lab aimed at educating guests, sustainability is ingrained into every facet of the resort's operations.

Visitors have the opportunity to embark on a sustainability tour, offering insight into the inner workings of the resort's eco-friendly infrastructure. Highlights include tours of the desalination and water bottling plants, as well as exploration of a thriving organic farm—an integral component of Six Senses' commitment to sustainability. Remarkably, this farm stands as one of the largest food producers within the Six Senses portfolio, a remarkable achievement for a secluded island nestled deep within the Indian Ocean.

Moreover, a percentage of the revenue generated from guest stays is directed towards a dedicated sustainability fund. This fund serves as a catalyst for impactful regenerative projects, encompassing endeavors such as forest and coral restoration, wildlife rescue efforts, and the implementation of conservation education programs within local schools.

More information, please contact me personally. Jane