TheSloaney

Magnificent Mahe: Experience a tropical haven at Hilton Northolme

Decrease Font Size Increase Font Size Text Size Print This Page

The Hilton Northolme on Mahe Island in the Seychelles provides guests with a luxurious and private stay, surrounded by a dramatic and tropical landscape…

BY LAURA TOOGOOD

I have always wanted to visit the Seychelles. The cluster of over 100 islands is situated in the middle of the Indian Ocean and surrounded by crystal clear water. The Seychelles have long been a popular destination for those in search of paradise. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge chose to visit for their honeymoon, as did George and Amal Clooney.

Given the location of Mahe (the main island) you would be forgiven for imagining it to be a completely flat stretch of white sand surrounded by sparkling blue sea. While the latter maybe true, Mahe actually has a very dynamic landscape.

H1

The Hilton Northolme is surrounded by a tropical landscape

Steep hills reach high into the sky and they are covered with luscious palms and greenery that gives a rainforest effect. While the coastline has a selection of sandy beaches there are also areas with severe rocky drops. The dramatic scenery adds plenty of natural character to this buzzing island. It is also home to rare, indigenous wildlife as well as exotic plants and fruits. The most famous of these is the coco de mer palms, which produce the precious nut that symbolises fertility.

For those planning a visit to Mahe, one of the most luxurious places to stay is the Hilton Northolme. This hotel is located about 20 minutes from Victoria International Airport. Guests visiting this tropical retreat are collected in a private car and driven through the winding roads that wend their way up the hillside. During the journey, there is a chance to admire the scenery and absorb the local culture.

Hilton Northolme

The views from the resort are beautiful

The Hilton Northolme is a gated complex that overlooks the sea and comprises a number of luxury villas. These are raised by stilts and boast spectacular views, which are maximised by the use of glass doors. The resort recently completed a new extension, which has seen the addition of a number of villas. They are finished to the highest standard and include very spacious bathrooms and excellent outdoor space.

There is a private swimming pool in each and this faces the Indian Ocean. Meanwhile, the contemporary patio area is fitted with comfortable loungers. It is as heavenly as it sounds!

Hilton Northolme presidential suite

The presidential suite has a huge infinity pool

The most impressive villa is the presidential suite, which features two bedrooms and a large patio area with a huge infinity pool. The view is incredible and ensures a special setting for a romantic trip to Mahe.

The humid conditions mean that regular refreshing dips are very enjoyable. Once out of the water you will definitely find yourself drifting off for a relaxing snooze on your private balcony. The villas provide the ultimate place to unwind and you can recline on a lounger, with the soothing sound of the waves helping you reach a tranquil state.

H1a5

The hotel’s main pool is also an infinity one and looks out onto the Indian Ocean

While it is wonderful to enjoy such seclusion in the private surroundings of your villa, the spa at Hilton Northolme is another area where you can reach the ultimate state of relaxation. Also, near to the spa is a beautiful infinity pool, which is above the air-conditioned fitness centre.

On your way to the spa, you can admire the luscious gardens of the resort. Here you will find one of only two Cannonball Trees on the island and the setting is inspiring. In fact, this is where James Bond creator Ian Fleming came to pen some of the 007 tales.

H1a4

The villas are perched on stilts to give incredible views

The spa has one of the best situations in the world and reaches out to the Indian Ocean so you are surrounded by the sea from many angles. There are three treatment rooms, including a couple’s room for those who want to enjoy some quality time together.

The treatments are excellent and the full body massage is a must for those who have just stepped off the plane. All of the products used at the spa are organic and the massage is guaranteed to remove any tension. It is a good way to begin your visit and I would also suggest that you consider a treatment to help your skin recover from the flight and also adjust to the climate.

H1a6

The spa almost floats on water

There is much to see on the main island and many of the activities offered by Hilton Northolme will suit the active guest. For example, it is possible to go snorkelling, surfing, paddle boarding and hiking. Despite the muggy climate – which is a welcome plus when taking a break from Europe during the winter months – the latter is extremely popular and considering the hilly landscape, it provides one of the best ways to enjoy the scenery.

The service at this resort is superb, especially in the restaurants where the quality of food is very impressive. There are several places where you can dine and the premium experience is at Les Cocotiers Restaurant. Here you can eat under the bright starry sky and make the most of al fresco dining. The food includes many local favourites and the cuisine is described as a mix of Creole-international fusion dishes that will appeal to all.

H1aa

Every villa at the Hilton Northolme offers great privacy

The food is exceptional and highlights include the seafood dishes, such as the octopus and tomato ceviche with tropical chips as well as the options featuring spiced tuna, grilled prawns and snapper. One of the flagship dishes is Surf N Turf and the Seafood Platter for two is also appealing.

During your stay it is also possible to enjoy delicious food at the Oceanview Bar and Restaurant. The tempura shrimps with Asian salad and dipping sauce is a fantastic dish and ideal as a lunchtime snack. The Red snapper with spiced pumpkin puree, bread le mar, mango salsa and banana chips is also very good.

It is safe to say that seafood dishes on Mahe are guaranteed to delight and the snapper is one of the best local fishes to eat.

H1a7

You can dine overlooking the sea and the fish on the menu is excellent

It is difficult to pick one outstanding characteristic of Hilton Northolme. The setting is inspiring with magnificent views of the Indian Ocean and the villas offer fantastic privacy for those looking to enjoy a peaceful and uninterrupted stay. The warm sea is only steps away and it is also very easy to visit other areas of the vibrant island if you want to explore different parts of Mahe.

The cuisine is probably the greatest asset to Hilton Northolme. When you dine in the restaurants you will enjoy a fine mix of local dishes that are expertly spiced and seasoned. They help to create an utterly mouth-watering menu.

H1a

The sunsets are very romantic

The Hilton Northolme wraps you in luxury and respects your privacy from the moment that you arrive. Whether you are staying on Mahe for a few days before exploring further afield or intend to have an extended break on the main island, this resort is perfect those seeking a James Bond style getaway.

Watch Sloaney TV to see more about our visit to Hilton Northolme:

The Hilton Seychelles Northolme Hotel and Spa is located at North Coast Rd, Glacis, Seychelles and you can book online here or by calling +248 4 299 000 Emirates fly from London via Dubai and you can book flights online here

COMING SOON: We visit the sister property Hilton Labriz on Silhouette Island in the Seychelles