Beyond the Horizon: Curated Day Trips & the Soul of Creole Cuisine
The true allure of Cousine Island lies in its balance. While our shores offer the ultimate sanctuary of seclusion, we also serve as your gateway to the wider Seychellois archipelago. This festive season, enrich your private island retreat with curated off-island adventures that blend culture, exploration, and the vibrant flavours of Creole heritage.
The Privilege of Choice
Within the sanctuary of Cousine Island, time is measured only by the tide. You could easily spend your entire holiday losing yourself in the lush foliage of your private villa, moving only to enjoy a gourmet meal served on the yoga deck or a treatment at the spa. Here, every culinary desire is met by our chefs using garden-grown produce and fresh local catch.
Yet, even the most intimate hideaway is enriched by context. To truly appreciate the profound silence of Cousine, we invite you to experience the vibrant heartbeat of our neighbours. At year-end, when the world feels busy, our curated day trips offer a "best of both worlds" experience: the ability to dip into the culture of Praslin and La Digue, before retreating to the absolute privacy of your own island by sunset.
A Voyage to the Garden of Eden: Praslin
Board one of our private catamarans or yachts for a bluewater voyage across the channel to Praslin. The journey itself is an indulgence—gliding over turquoise depths with the wind in your hair, watching for dolphins playing in the bow wave.
Your destination is the legendary Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage site often described as the original Garden of Eden. Walk beneath the canopy of ancient palms to see the rare Coco de Mer and listen for the elusive Black Parrot.
After your forest immersion, the day turns to the sea. Drop anchor in a quiet cove near Anse Lazio—one of the world's most celebrated beaches—for a swim in crystalline waters. Lunch can be a private affair prepared by the crew on board, featuring grilled fish and spices that mirror the Creole excellence you enjoy back on Cousine.
Visit Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage site on Praslin, Seychelles
Timeless Charm and Creole Tastes: La Digue
For a change of pace, venture to La Digue, an island where time seems to stand still. Here, few cars travel the roads; instead, life moves at the speed of a bicycle wheel.
Upon arrival, we can arrange for bicycles or electric bikes to be waiting for you. Cycle past vanilla plantations and sleepy villages to Mimi’s Creole Table, a hidden gem we highly recommend. This is not just a meal; it is a taste of history. Savour traditional octopus curry rich with spices and finish with a slice of authentic sweet coconut tart, prepared using recipes handed down through generations.
Spend your afternoon at Anse Source d’Argent, where massive, sculptural granite boulders frame shallow turquoise pools. It is a landscape unique to the Seychelles, perfect for drifting in the warm water before your return journey.
Explore La Digue Island, Seychelles on a bicycle
Seamless Logistics for the Discerning Traveller
At Cousine Island, we believe adventure should never come at the expense of comfort. Our team orchestrates every detail of these off-island odysseys.
The Vessels: Transfers are arranged via private catamaran or yacht (20–25 minutes to Praslin), turning the commute into a luxury cruise.
The Sky: For a truly bespoke arrival or departure, we can coordinate EC 120 Eurocopter transfers, whisking you between Mahé, Praslin, and Cousine in mere minutes.
Please note: These off-island excursions and external dining experiences are curated as optional enhancements to your stay. They are not included in the standard villa rate. Our travel designers will happily provide a bespoke quotation based on your preferred vessel, group size, and itinerary.
A Return to Serenity
The true magic of a day trip lies in the homecoming. After the sensory richness of the local markets and the heat of the day, returning to Cousine Island feels like slipping into a warm embrace.
As the sun dips below the horizon, retreat to the Gecko Bar for a glass of champagne or a locally brewed beer. Share stories of your adventures over a candlelit dinner at the Pavilion, or perhaps a beach barbecue under the stars. And if the flavours of La Digue inspired you, why not book a private Creole cooking class with our chefs? Learn to recreate that octopus curry in our open-air kitchen, taking a piece of the Seychellois soul home with you.
Expand your horizons this festive season. Contact our team to curate a holiday that weaves together the quiet bliss of a private island with the vibrant culture of the Seychelles.
