La Cigale is located on the east coast of the Seychelle’s second-largest island, Praslin. The hotel is situated between the pristine Cote D’Or Beach and the mountains of Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Overview
A small nine-bedroom boutique hotel set on 4.5 acres of manicured lawns and tropical plants, La Cigale has an old colonial feel to it. Designed in the style of a traditional plantation house, with white paintwork and a wrap-around wooden balcony, five of its suites are situated in the main building, the remaining four suites in the estate gardens. It includes a bar, restaurant, pool, multiple seating areas, and a gym. WiFi is available throughout.
Food & service
The overall feel of the service at La Cigale is attentive and yet low-key. The cuisine is focused on local organic produce, with a choice of both international or traditional Creole dishes on offer. La Cigale also has an extensive cellar of first-class wines.
Rooms
The nine spacious rooms each contain a king-sized bed, comfortable lounge seating, desk, minibar, and coffee machines as well as sizeable en suites. The five suites located in the main house enjoy either balconies or direct access to the estate grounds. Garden suites each have plunge pools and al fresco showers. Each suite comes with its own room manager. The overall style has an updated classic feel, with local artwork and other Seychellois touches throughout.
Activities
La Cigale is only a few minutes drive from Vallée de Mai, and exploring endemic species in this untouched forest is a must while here. Various watersports are also on offer, including kayaking, fishing, surfing, paddleboarding, snorkelling and diving. Cultural offerings include tours of local galleries, Creole cooking lessons, or a visit to local farms. Hotel-based activities include tennis, personal training sessions, and meditation classes. La Cigale also has multiday itineraries designed to keep children entertained too.
Impact
The majority of La Cigale’s energy comes from solar. Rainwater is also harvested and used throughout the estate. Food is grown onsite in La Cigale’s vegetable and spice gardens where possible, while most other produce is locally sourced. This includes ingredients used in the hotel’s spa and bathroom products.