As the Hilton Labriz is located on Silhouette Island, guests will choose to arrive by either helicopter from the international airport or by boat from Bel Ombre. The island is off the northwestern section of Mahe and three and a half miles from North Island. The Hilton team has done a decent job in combining their branded Labriz Gastrolounge and the check-in area, located about 30 minutes from the Victoria-Seychelles airport. Furthermore, the advance check-in is a thoughtful approach and allows our arrival to the island to be seamless. Additionally, depending on flight times, there are day rooms available for guests, should they need an extra bit of time before the journey over. As a final note, visitors should check the timings for the ferry to avoid any disappointments. We opt for the 30-minute boat ride, which passes by quickly in reasonably calm waters.
Upon arrival to Labriz, we jump in a golf cart (our luggage will meet us at our villa) and take in views of the island’s interior, which feels refreshingly underdeveloped compared to Mahé. There are no roads, only a few hiking trails, so bikes and golf carts are the only methods of getting around. The public areas feature hardwood decking, water features, a large pool, and plenty of idyllic beaches.
There is a range of dining choices in modern and relaxed surroundings, open for lunch and dinner. As some of the seatings are limited, guests will want to inquire in advance to set up reservations. Overall, the culinary options fall in line with what we expect at a resort. Nothing is particularly groundbreaking, but families will be able to find something that suits their needs, with a range of recognizable international favorites.
A quick tour of our King Sanctuary Pool Villa reveals 185sqm of luxe accommodation, and we love the ample amount of space. This category would also be suitable for families (however, guests should check in advance to ensure the property can accommodate). Our bedroom looks over a furnished terrace, a lounge area with views over the private pool, and a personal garden pavilion. All rooms feature outdoor rain showers in private patio gardens. The abundance of space continues in the bathroom, where we find an oversized free-standing bathtub that looks out to the lush landscape and includes a separate shower and double vanity. We immediately take advantage of the private pool and appreciate the adjacent expansive decked seating area, complete with sun loungers. Best of all? The private pool has a waterfall, which helps cut down on any noise we might hear from outside our room -- a small touch that is genuinely appreciated. Views from the garden overlook tropical flora and granite hillsides as well as a private wooden pergola, perfect for eating or lounging.
The hotel offers a well-equipped gym (although WiFi is a challenge), a PADI five-star diving center, tennis courts, and a large pool. The Eforea Spa includes a range of treatments alongside other standard massages. We have to admit that the space is impressive, with seven hardwood treatment rooms built on stilts and connected by winding stone paths among dramatic boulders and dense palm trees. Yes, you’re definitely in paradise.
Families will appreciate the kids club, which entertains young guests with organized activities. Adult activities include diving, surfing, and hiking, which need to be arranged in advance and may cost extra. We also take advantage of bikes (which are included with our specific room category) and use the opportunity to explore the island.
Would we go back to Labriz? Yes, Labriz offers the feel of being on a private island with better value for money than some other hotel chains, and we can see both couples and families being delighted to spend a few days here to relax and unwind.
All members of the travel party were vaccinated and followed country and airline protocols during this trip.
