In the heart of the Indian Ocean, Blue Safari Seychelles Alphonse Island is a hidden gem that epitomises luxury and tranquillity. My stay at the Beach Bungalow was nothing short of magical, with an itinerary designed to immerse me in the breathtaking beauty and vibrant marine life of this secluded paradise. Reflecting on my week-long adventure, I was reminded of the seamless blend of relaxation and adventure that Alphonse Island offered.
Arrival and First Impressions
On Monday morning, I arrived at the IDC Hanger in Mahé, brimming with excitement for the journey ahead. The check-in process was smooth, and by 8:00 am, I was airborne, bound for Alphonse Island. The flight was a scenic delight, with stunning views of the turquoise waters and lush greenery below. Arriving at Alphonse Island at 9:00 am, I was greeted with a refreshing welcome drink at Le Lys Bar, which set the tone for my stay.
After a leisurely breakfast at Bijoutier Restaurant, I took time to explore the island. The soft, powdery white sands and the gentle lapping of waves against the shore created a serene atmosphere that instantly put me at ease. The natural beauty of Alphonse Island was awe-inspiring, and I found myself wandering along the beach, soaking in the sights and sounds of this tropical paradise.
Immersive Experiences and Marine Adventures
The days that followed were filled with unforgettable experiences. Tuesday began with a hearty breakfast before I joined a full-day excursion on the boat Amani. This adventure included sailfish snorkelling and dolphin watching. The highlight was undoubtedly the snorkelling, where I swam alongside vibrant coral reefs teeming with life. The marine biodiversity was astonishing, and I found myself captivated by the underwater world.
After a delightful lunch on board, we returned to the island just in time for an informative talk about the island’s conservation efforts at the movie theatre. Dinner at the Beach Bar that evening was a culinary delight, featuring fresh seafood and local specialities, all while the sun set in a blaze of orange and pink.
Wednesday brought a sense of purpose as I participated in a beach clean-up, a rewarding experience that deepened my appreciation for the island’s natural beauty. The afternoon was spent feeding Giant Tortoises, which was both educational and heartwarming. The evening’s Manta Talk at the movie theatre provided fascinating insights into these majestic creatures, enhancing my understanding of marine conservation.
On Friday, we visited the neighbouring island of St. François. The untouched beauty of this island was breathtaking. We walked around, taking in sea birds, migratory wildlife and nursing pools of rays and sharks before heading back to Alphonse for a much-deserved lunch on the beach.
The island of Alphonse is also car-free, so another activity that really helps you to immerse in the island is a cycle tour of the periphery. We got to see birds’ nests, an ancient cemetery from when the island was a coconut plantation and species of native trees that are slowly returning to the island after mono-cropping. We finished our bike tour in the farm garden with freshly made smoothies, the perfect refresher after a rather warm cycle excursion.
A Culinary Journey
Each day began with a delicious breakfast, but the culinary highlight of the whole trip was the Flats lunch. This enchanting outing took place on the pristine shores of a local sandbank, where the azure waters met the soft, powdery sands, creating an idyllic backdrop for a day of relaxation and indulgence.
As the day began, we boarded a boat that glided effortlessly across the lagoon, the gentle breeze ruffling our hair and the sun warming our skin. Our destination was a secluded sandbank surrounded by vibrant coral reefs, a true paradise untouched by the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Upon arrival, we were greeted by an inviting setup featuring rustic tables adorned with colourful beach décor, perfectly complementing the stunning natural surroundings.
Freshly caught seafood took centre stage, showcasing the rich flavours of the Indian Ocean. We savoured succulent grilled fish, tender meat, and a variety of local salads bursting with flavour. Each dish was thoughtfully presented, reflecting the artistry and care that went into its preparation. As we dined, the sound of waves lapping at the shore provided a soothing soundtrack, enhancing the overall atmosphere of serenity.
The Flats Lunch was not just a meal; it was a celebration of the natural beauty and culinary richness of Seychelles, an unforgettable adventure that left a lasting impression.
As the week progressed, the culinary experiences continued to impress. The Farm Tour and Cooking Class with Chef Lennox on Friday was a particular highlight. I learned about local ingredients and cooking techniques, culminating in a sumptuous meal that I helped prepare using ingredients from their island farm, which has to be seen to be believed!
Wellness and Relaxation
My itinerary also included moments of relaxation and wellness. Saturday began with an invigorating yoga class set against the backdrop of the island’s natural beauty; the tranquillity of the surroundings made it a perfect way to centre myself. The afternoon kayak excursion allowed me to explore hidden coves and enjoy the serene waters at my own pace. There is also a pool where one can laze of an afternoon with a good book or a freshly made cocktail in one of the hammocks.
As the sun began to set, I joined fellow guests for cocktails at Le Lys Bar, where we shared stories of our adventures over the week. One of the traditions of the island is that when someone achieves something, like a beach clean up, they get a gong of the bell, and that night my whole team received this accolade, which made for a charming end to the day.
Unique Accommodation
While my stay in my Beach Bungalow was amazing, we had the chance to spend one night in a charming Beach Villa. Located in a secluded part of the island, this paradise offered a perfect blend of luxury and nature, making it a memorable escape.
The villa itself was a dream—spacious, beautifully decorated, and equipped with all the modern amenities one could desire. With four bedrooms, all with en-suites, a massive lounge and a kitchen, the highlight of this villa had to be the private pool. The private deck, which encompassed the pool, boasted direct beach access, providing an idyllic setting in which to bask in the sun or listen to the soothing sounds of the waves right from our villa.
Alphonse Shark Project: A Dive into Shark Conservation and Research
One unique part of Blue Safaris Seychelles Alphonse is that while it is a travel destination for tourists it also founded a foundation for protecting the wildlife found across the Seychelles to ensure the future of the incredible diversity found there. One such project funded by this foundation is the Alphonse Shark Project, which emerges as a beacon of hope for shark conservation in Seychelles, specifically targeting the diverse shark populations of the Alphonse Island Group and the surrounding St. François Atoll.
This collaborative research initiative promises to deepen our understanding of shark ecology and behaviour through meticulous and innovative methodologies. At its core, the project aims to establish a comprehensive benchmark of the coastal and pelagic shark assemblages in the region. By deploying a combination of baited remote underwater video systems (BRUVS) and acoustic tracking technologies, researchers will assess the diversity, abundance, and movement patterns of key species such as silvertip, grey reef, bull, tiger, and lemon sharks. These efforts will not only quantify population dynamics but also elucidate the intricate ecological relationships among these apex predators.
One of the standout features of the project is its commitment to understanding the dietary habits of these sharks through faecal DNA analysis. This cutting-edge approach allows researchers to decode the diets of captured sharks, revealing essential information about their prey preferences and ecological roles. With the deployment of 100 benthic and 100 midwater BRUVS over the first two years, the team is poised to gather significant data on shark behaviour in both reef and open ocean environments.
The project’s ten-year timeline ensures a robust framework for ongoing data collection and analysis, paving the way for multiple scientific publications and informed conservation management strategies. Importantly, the collaboration with local researchers and conservation staff underscores a commitment to capacity building, fostering a new generation of Seychellois scientists equipped with vital skills in shark research.
In a region where data on shark populations is sorely lacking, the Alphonse Shark Project stands out as a critical initiative. It not only aims to conserve and manage shark populations but also enhances our broader understanding of marine ecosystems. As this project unfolds, it promises to illuminate the complex lives of these remarkable creatures and contribute significantly to their protection in Seychelles and beyond. NB: I believe in this project so much I funded a shark tag to continue their good work in projecting the sharks of our oceans.
Conclusion: A Perfect Getaway
As my week at Alphonse Island came to an end, I found myself reflecting on the myriad of experiences I had enjoyed. The combination of adventure, conservation, relaxation, and exquisite cuisine created a perfect balance that made my stay truly memorable. The staff at Alphonse Island Lodge were exemplary, always ensuring that my needs were met with genuine warmth and hospitality. A massive thank you to Juho, the Dive and Activity Manager, for all the incredible excursions and, most of all, to Elle, their Conservation Manager, for teaching me so much and making me think about my choices even when I returned to the UK.
I checked out on Monday morning, feeling rejuvenated and enriched by my time on the island. The final moments were spent savouring lunch on the beach, with the gentle breeze and the sound of the ocean encapsulating the perfect ending to a remarkable getaway.
Alphonse Island Lodge is more than just a destination; it is an experience that lingers in the heart long after leaving. For anyone seeking a luxurious escape that combines adventure and conservation with relaxation, this island paradise deserves a top spot on your travel list. Whether you’re snorkelling with marine life, indulging in culinary delights, or simply lounging on the beach, Alphonse Island promises to offer a rejuvenating and moving experience that will stay with you for years to come.
To book or see other options, visit Blue Safaris Seychelles online.
