Silhouette: A Holiday Without the Pressure to Do It All

When we arrived on Mahé, we were welcomed with a cocktail in a reception area belonging to the Hilton hotel. From there, we were taken by boat to Silhouette Island. The journey took around 45 minutes and gave us a real sense of the breathtaking vastness of the Indian Ocean.

Upon arrival on the island, we received a warm welcome from the hotel team. Our first impression was excellent, and the friendly staff were remarkable. Electric vehicles, a type of buggy, are the main means of transport on the island. We were taken to our accommodation in one of these buggies, which can carry up to 10 people.

Electric ‘buggy’ These beautiful, detached accommodation units, each measuring at least 88 sq m, simply blew us away. We have rarely seen such beautiful, tastefully furnished rooms. The outdoor shower is equally impressive, offering a breathtaking view of the rainforest.

Nature Outdoor shower Our entire stay at theHilton Labriz Resort & Spa was defined by the unique natural surroundings, with the resort nestled harmoniously within them. For us, the loveliest and most relaxing aspect of this holiday was that there was no ‘activity stress’, as there simply was not an extensive programme to distract us from what really mattered: the complete relaxation we experienced there.

Nature Anyone looking for parties and nightlife on holiday is definitely in the wrong place here. We limited ourselves to yoga and meditation sessions led by a wonderful Indian instructor. He is also the manager of the spa, where my husband enjoyed two hot-stone massages. The spa is built into the rocks and features a Finnish sauna, a steam room, a hot tub and a small pool. It is definitely worth a visit.

Spa What impressed us most, however, was the fantastic food, available either from the buffet or in one of the 4 restaurants. It was extremely varied and absolutely delicious. Each evening, the buffet has a different theme, such as Asian cuisine or braai, a type of Creole barbecue buffet. The service is excellent and attentive. The staff anticipate your every wish, provided you are equally friendly. The extensive breakfast buffet remains well stocked until 11.00 and offers something for every taste, both sweet and savoury. The selection includes porridge, fresh fruit, homemade jams, 5 different varieties of honey, hot dishes such as couscous with vegetables, fresh juices, pancakes, crêpes and French toast, as well as an incredible choice of freshly baked rolls, brioche, toast and muffins. South African sparkling wine is also served at breakfast, and you can order hot drinks such as cappuccino, Americano, espresso or tea.

Buffet Restaurant There is one small downside worth mentioning, however. The rainforest certainly lived up to its name, with heavy rain almost every day, and there were many mosquitoes and other creatures around, some of which were also found in the water. If you are sensitive to bites, they can leave many unpleasant marks, which sometimes made it difficult for me to sleep. So be warned if you are particularly susceptible. All in all, however, the hotel is highly recommended and offers reasonable value for money. We would return at any time and would always recommend the hotel with a clear conscience.