The Seychelles is one of the most popular destinations for Dubai residents — and for good reason. A mere 4.5-hour flight whisks you away to a world so idyllic, it feels like stepping into a scene from a Bounty commercial. Powdery white sand, the emerald embrace of the Indian Ocean, year-round perfect weather, lush palm groves, and dramatic granite boulders framing pristine beaches. Of the archipelago’s 115 islands, only 33 are inhabited. The GATE_DXB team traveled to the second-largest of them, Praslin, to experience a completely new concept of luxury at La Cigale Estate.
Praslin spans just ten by three and a half kilometers, yet it packs an extraordinary amount of natural beauty into its compact size. Towering peaks, tropical plantations, world-famous beaches, and one of UNESCO’s smallest yet most ecologically rich national parks — home to flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth.
Over a century ago, part of the island belonged to the Houareau family, who cultivated vanilla, patchouli, sugarcane, and coconut palms. They were also deeply connected to maritime trade, transporting their plantation goods to Mauritius and Africa aboard their ship, La Cigale. Today, in honor of that seafaring legacy, their descendants have named their private estate after the historic vessel.
The elegant two-story colonial-style mansion gives the impression of having stood for generations, but in reality, it was only recently built and designed to introduce a brand-new concept to Seychelles — an exclusive retreat available solely to one group at a time, whether for a single guest or up to 18.
This means that the entire estate is yours alone: a grand mansion with five guest suites, four additional private pool villas, a restaurant, a tennis court, a private cinema, a billiards lounge, a coconut grove, and a secluded beach. A dedicated team of 25 staff members ensures an unparalleled experience, from a celebrated chef and a master mixologist to a personal butler and an in-house spa therapist. Most of the team are Seychellois locals, eager to introduce guests to the island’s culture and cuisine.
Attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the property. The interiors showcase one of the largest collections of Seychellois art in the country. Hypnos mattresses draped in 600-thread-count Egyptian cotton, pillows and duvets from South Africa’s Granny Goose, a Victoria & Albert bathtub, and Villeroy & Boch fittings ensure comfort at the highest level. Adding a personal touch, the in-room amenities are crafted by Seychellois brand Belliche, using coconut oil sourced from the estate’s own plantation.
La Cigale Estate’s location is just as remarkable. A short drive away lies the iconic Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and nature reserve. This mystical forest is home to the legendary coco de mer — the world’s largest coconut, weighing up to 25 kg, and known for its striking resemblance to the curves of the female form. The park is also a sanctuary for other endemic species, such as the bronze-eyed gecko and the elusive Seychelles black parrot.
Just across the road from the estate, you’ll find a spice plantation that is also home to the Seychelles’ famous giant tortoises — another symbol of the archipelago. These ancient creatures can grow over a meter in length, weigh up to 350 kg, and live for more than 200 years.
For those looking to explore more of the island, a visit to Anse Lazio is a must. Framed by striking granite boulders, this pristine beach consistently ranks among the top 10 beaches in Africa — a fitting finale to a stay where paradise meets exclusivity in its most refined form. However, we doubt you’ll feel the urge to leave the grounds of La Cigale Estate — and we wouldn’t blame you.
