Fall in love all over again in the Seychelles, where turquoise waters, golden sands and intimate experiences create the perfect setting for your honeymoon…
Words by Charlotte Saunders
The Lowdown
Nestled in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles is an archipelago made of 115 idyllic islands, each a world of its own. With secluded beaches, towering granite boulders and picturesque mountains, this tropical gem may just be your perfect match.
Mahé, the largest island, is home to Avani+ Barbarons Seychelles, a honeymoon-worthy hideaway set along a serene stretch of shoreline. Having recently reopened after a full renovation, the hotel now features elevated design, expanded facilities and fresh culinary concepts – all set against one of the most breathtaking backdrops I’ve ever experienced.
The resort’s prime location is just a 30-minute drive from Mahé Airport, allowing you to ease into holiday mode without delay. As we stepped into the stylish lobby with a welcome drink in hand, any weariness melted away, replaced by excitement for island life. The warm breeze, the shimmering turquoise sea and the friendly faces greeting us instantly set the tone for the days ahead. It’s no wonder this slice of paradise tops every traveller’s bucket list.
Rooms & Suites
With 192 beautifully designed rooms and suites, from tranquil garden rooms to beachside suites (some with pool access and ocean views,) deciding where to stay is a delightful challenge. The brand-new Premium Lagoon Access room is made for honeymooners. A spacious terrace opens directly onto a pool dotted with floating loungers, beckoning you for lazy afternoons spent with your loved one. Plush sunbeds, a chic outdoor dining set and a gentle sea breeze make it an idyllic haven for couples seeking a serene escape. Inside, a neutral palette with contemporary accents reflects the hotel’s stylish aesthetic. A king-size bed draped in crisp white linens, a cosy sofa ideal for afternoon siestas and vibrant artwork by local artist Zsaklin bring island charm to the space. The bathroom is just as indulgent, with a bathtub, rain shower and Malin + Goetz toiletries for the ultimate sun-kissed pampering session.
The Spa
After a 12-hour flight, AvaniSpa was the perfect way to unwind. Tucked away in a peaceful outdoor sanctuary away from the resort’s livelier corners, it offers everything from signature massages to holistic therapies and couples’ rituals. The Avani Signature Touch Massage was exactly the reset my travel-weary body needed, made even more luxurious with handcrafted Belliche products – an artisanal, island-made line that left my skin nourished and delicately scented.
Poolside Paradise
The resort features two pools, each with its own bar, but the beachfront pool steals the show. With uninterrupted sea views and double cabanas perched just steps from the shore, it’s straight from a postcard. Imagine the two of you lounging in the sun, sipping ice-cold daiquiris, soft white sand beneath your feet… just soaking up the honeymoon magic. That’s the kind of bliss you can expect here.
When the tropical heat becomes a little too much, swim over to Zil Bar for a chilled cocktail upon the submerged bar stools or indulge in a poolside bento box lunch filled with comforting island flavours. While the temptation to stay in your cabana all day is strong, it’s well worth taking a few steps to the crystal-clear shoreline for snorkelling and water sports.
Food & Drink
Mornings begin with a hearty breakfast buffet overlooking the waves – iced coffee in hand, crepes sizzling at the made-to-order station and pastries impossible to resist – the options are abundant. Pti-Bazar serves as the go-to lunch spot, offering culinary delights inspired by cuisines from around the world. Seyumai, the stylish sushi counter, offers Asian delicacies with a Japanese focus. Expect dim sum, sashimi and mixed tempura, ideal for guests seeking a picture-perfect plate. For an extra special evening, the resort’s new signature restaurant, Somewhere, shines. With premium cuts of meat, fresh seafood and bold flavours, it’s made for date nights spent toasting to love with expertly paired wines. The pork steak with potato, fried bananas and mustard is a must-try for an unexpected yet delightfully memorable combination of local flavours.
The cherry on top of your honeymoon extravaganza has to be the private beach dining experience. Guided along lantern-lit paths, you will be greeted by the rhythm of the traditional Moutya dance, accompanied by the aroma of a charcoal grill perched on the beach. Fresh seafood, sizzling meats and local delicacies are prepared right before your eyes, each course more tempting than the last. It feels like your own secluded world, with gentle waves as your soundtrack and stars as your backdrop. This beach BBQ is a must for couples celebrating a new chapter together. (Available from €250pp)
To-Do List
Whatever you choose to do at Avani+ Barbarons Seychelles, you can rest assured that every experience will be tailored just for you. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or an adventure-filled escape, the Seychelles offers the best of both worlds and the dedicated Avani team makes planning excursions effortless. Each moment feels personal and perfectly curated, leaving you with an entire array of unforgettable memories.
At Vallée Des Fruits, the Seychelles’ first organic fruit plantation, couples can enjoy yoga surrounded by luscious greenery, sipping fresh coconut water straight from the source and sampling “fruitshi’’ – a vibrant, bite-sized medley of home-grown fruits.
For sea-loving couples, a luxury boat trip through St. Anne Marine Park is one of the most magical ways to explore the islands. Stop at Moyenne Island to encounter giant tortoises, take in stunning viewpoints and relax on pristine beaches. Back on board, snorkel in some of the clearest water you can imagine, then savour a delicious BBQ lunch – an experience truly made for your honeymoon itinerary.
If you prefer to stay put at the resort, Endemic Rum Seychelles offers a rum-making masterclass. This fun, hands-on experience lets you craft your own signature blend that will then continue to infuse at home, becoming a flavourful memory in a bottle.
Whether you’re dreaming of a tranquil honeymoon, an adventure-filled escape or saying “I do” with the ocean as your backdrop, Avani+ Barbarons Seychelles offers an idyllic setting for couples looking to celebrate their love in style. From intimate dining and bespoke island excursions to serene suites and heartfelt hospitality, Avani+ Barbarons Seychelles is the perfect offering for a once-in-a-lifetime getaway, leaving you with everlasting memories of love and adventure.
How to book:
Rooms from 315 euros, based on two adults sharing a Garden View Balcony Room on a B&B basis, inclusive of taxes. For more information or to book your dream honeymoon, please visit avanihotels.com/en/seychelles-barbarons
