The Vibe
The Mango House, an LXR Hotel by Hilton on the island of Mahé, Seychelles, is not an ordinary resort, and this is evident from the moment you arrive. Originally built as a personal residence for Italian-born and celebrated fashion photographer Gian Paolo Barbieri, the atmosphere leaves you feeling more at home than in a hotel.
Set directly on Anse Aux Poules Bleues in southern Mahé, the views of this Indian Ocean retreat shimmer, from sunrises over the eastern mountains to beautiful evening sunsets over the bay. Mahé is the largest of the 115 islands that make up this nation, situated in the Indian Ocean, southeast of mainland Eastern Africa and north of Madagascar. Mahé is also home to Victoria, the capital city of the archipelago, and the international airport, which is about a thirty-five-minute ride from the resort.
As a solo traveler, I was initially concerned that I might feel out of place among the mostly couples at a destination known for honeymooners and romantic getaways. However, my stay was perfect, largely due to the staff going out of their way to ensure my comfort. The Mango House has become my all-time favorite Hilton property.
How I Felt
Awestruck. The Seychelles are a magical destination, filled with waterfalls, more pristine beaches than you can count, Aldabra tortoises and the Mango House, which offers excellent accommodations in a stunning location. The islands' rich Creole culture influences both language and cuisine, on and off the resort grounds.
Across the board, heartfelt service makes you feel welcomed into the sanctuary of the Mango House. From the friendly waitstaff who learn your preferences with each meal and continually elevate their service, to the best housekeeping experience of my life, and the bar staff who mix some of the best cocktails around — collectively, the staff elevate the resort in ways that any hotelier can only hope for.
The Digs
With just forty-one suites, all offering majestic views of the bay, the décor at the Mango House reflects LXR's commitment to unique and elegant design, while honoring local culture and providing immersive experiences. Suite categories range from Premium Rooms to a Three-Bedroom Bay House with a Plunge Pool.
My King Premium Room was located in the Cliff House. The room was expansive and included a large balcony where I would sit and work as a digital nomad, enjoying an espresso from the in-room coffee bar. The design, with mixed textures and colors derived from local materials, created a warm, contemporary feel in a multi-sensory environment.
The four-poster bed draped in linen created the ultimate romantic atmosphere. I enjoyed perfect nights of rest while listening to the waves crash on the rocky cliff below. Equally impressive, the bathroom's functionality and design, featuring local handmade soaps and tropical design bathrobes, added luxurious touches that made the stay memorable.
The Agenda
Many days were spent lounging by the three different infinity pools, each with its own unique vibe. The Cliff House pool was quiet and perfect for relaxing with a book beneath the majestic trees. The alluring infinity pool located outside the lobby was a showstopper, offering unobstructed views of the bay. The third and largest pool, located near the beach, includes Soley’s, the poolside bar and dining outpost.
Mixing relaxation and adventure during my weeklong stay, I spent several days on excursions booked through the concierge, including an island-hopping tour of La Digue and Praslin. La Digue, home to the world-famous Anse Source d'Argent beach and giant granite boulders set against vibrant turquoise waters, provided the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable beach outing.
However, Praslin, the second-largest island in the Seychelles, was equally impressive. Praslin is best known for the giant Coco de Mer palm tree, which is endemic to the island. The tree, along with its seed — the largest seed in the world — takes ten years to mature and weighs about as much as three average bowling balls. The tour, which lasts eight to ten hours and includes pickup from the resort, exceeded my already high expectations for an arranged excursion.
Much closer to the resort and near Victoria, the capital city of the Seychelles, lies Moyenne Island. Home to more than a hundred Aldabra tortoises, seven hundred mahogany trees and the Jolly Roger Bar, Moyenne Island can easily be explored in a few hours, making it a perfect half-day excursion.
The Mango House also assisted with arranging a car rental, as transportation around the island can be expensive. I was nervous about driving in a foreign country for the first time, but I found it to be a fun way to explore Mahé and its countless beaches, each seemingly more beautiful than the last. The island’s low-speed limits make navigating the narrow roadways manageable.
The Eats
Each morning at the Mango House began with an excellent breakfast in a French brasserie-inspired dining room. The meal included passed items such as a selection of meats, cheeses, delectable local fruits and pastries. Breakfast also featured a made-to-order menu and unlimited espressos and lattes. Don't miss the local bananas and banana compote, which have a unique sweetness that I fell in love with.
Before heading to dinner, a sunset cocktail at Kokoye, located upstairs from the lobby, is where award-winning mixologists craft unique cocktails, with a strong focus on local ingredients.
The resort hosts three rotating dinner restaurant concepts: Muse, which highlights Italian cuisine from all regions of Italy; Azido, offering Japanese cuisine with unique sushi and sashimi dishes; and Moutya, which celebrates local Creole cuisine with ingredients and flavors of the Seychelles. I found the rotation of concepts and the variety of high-quality dishes more than ample to keep my taste buds excited for each evening’s meal.
There are, of course, numerous restaurant outposts around the island. I found myself popping in and out of several, sampling dishes on a self-made food tour while touring around in my rental car between beach stops. A strong emphasis on seafood was prevalent, often accompanied by rice.
Why I Would Go Back
Beaches, beaches, beaches. The unspoiled beauty and often completely undeveloped beaches of the Seychelles are unforgettable. Add in the endemic fauna and flora, and you have the recipe for a truly memorable vacation.
The Mango House greatly enhanced my enjoyment of the islands. It was the perfect place to unwind and recharge. The emphasis on local ingredients, textures and materials creates a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Service is woven into the culture of the Mango House, making this hidden gem truly stand out.
Cole Sjoholm
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