Denis Island in Seychelles: nature, holidays and activities

A secluded paradise with five-star service. Denis Private Island is not just a resort, but a place where nature and luxury come together in perfect harmony. Denis is considered one of the most romantic islands in the Seychelles archipelago. It is a small tropical oasis only 2 kilometres long. The island is so compact that it can easily be explored on foot.

Denis Private Island

Nature and history of the island

Denis is striking in its diversity: lush greenery gives way to long sandy beaches that frame the coastline. Coconut palms, casuarina trees and almond trees grow on the island.

The coral reef surrounding the island makes it an ideal place for lovers of underwater exploration. A swim in the lagoon gives you the chance to see colourful tropical fish and sea turtles in their natural habitat. The untouched white-sand beaches are impressive in their beauty and pristine condition.

Denis Island was discovered by Captain Denis de Trobriand in 1773. This small island became an overseas colony of France and later a centre of copra production. The island was subsequently acquired by a German entrepreneur, and years later British investors turned it into a luxury resort. Today it is one of the most exclusive places in the Seychelles. A small community of local residents lives on the island. They live in the Old Village. Most of the people living here, however, are hotel staff.

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Denis Private Island

The private island is home to a single hotel, Denis Private Island.

Guests can stay in 23 spacious beach cottages spread across an area of 152 hectares. There are also two luxurious villas on the island, offering ocean views and beautiful sunsets. It is one of the most private and secluded hotels in the world, where no one will disturb you during your holiday.

The absence of television and internet access in the cottages makes the experience unique. It is a true place for a digital detox, where you can completely disconnect from the bustle of the modern world and enjoy nature.

Denis Private Island offers only one meal plan, full board, because there are no dining establishments here apart from those at the hotel. The resort actively participates in nature conservation programmes, so it grows its own fruit and vegetables, which are then served in the resort restaurant.

Denis Private Island

Accommodation

The spacious rooms retain the colonial style of the Seychelles, with wooden floors and furniture made in the local carpentry workshop. Outdoor bathrooms and garden courtyards help you relax and fully unwind.

There are four accommodation categories on the island. Each cottage has its own private beach, sun loungers and furnished verandas overlooking the ocean. Each one has everything needed for a comfortable stay: a king-size double bed, sitting area, wine cabinet, tea and coffee-making facilities, Nespresso coffee machine, mini-fridge, iron and ironing board, air conditioning, ceiling fan, hairdryer, travel kit, as well as a relaxation area and private veranda overlooking the ocean. The beach villas have a private dining pavilion just a few steps from the beach.

Denis Private Island

Activities and leisure

Spa and pool. The Beachfront Spa Cottage has a private massage pavilion in the courtyard with a bathroom. One of the island's highlights is the infinity pool, which offers breathtaking ocean views. This pool is ideal for evening relaxation while admiring the sunsets.

Sport. Here you can enjoy diving, snorkelling, windsurfing, kayaking, sailing and fishing. The resort provides snorkelling equipment, kayaks and paddleboards so that guests can explore the lagoon around the island.

Diving. The reefs are rich in colourful marine life, so the island has a PADI dive centre. It offers various courses for beginners and experienced divers and also organises dives to significant depths. One of the most interesting places for diving is the coral reef near the island, at depths ranging from 18 to 100 metres. The best time for diving is from October to May, when underwater visibility is at its best.

Fishing. The waters around Denis have been granted protected status by the Seychelles government. Charter boats will take you to "The Drop-Off", where the ocean reaches a depth of 2,000 metres. Here you can encounter sharks, barracudas and other large marine animals. Bottom fishing for grouper or the famous red snapper is also possible. If the catch meets conservation requirements, the hotel chefs will prepare it and serve it for dinner or lunch. However, catch-and-release fishing, where the fish is returned to the ocean, is more commonly practised.

Hotel activities. Tennis, football, billiards and cycling.

Guests can use additional services, such as organising a romantic dinner under the stars, a sunset cruise and relaxing spa treatments.

Denis Private Island

Ecotourism at Denis Private Island

One of the main features of Denis Private Island is its commitment to environmental sustainability. It received a World Travel Awards award for its work in sustainable tourism. The island takes care of preserving the local flora and fauna, and guests can join guided tours with an ecologist.

Denis Private Island

Weddings and events

Denis Private Island is an ideal place for romantic events. Weddings, anniversaries, engagements and vow renewal ceremonies can be organised here.

Denis Private Island

How to get to Denis Island

The island is located 95 kilometres north of Mahé. It can be reached by plane in just 30 minutes. During the flight, you will have a unique opportunity to enjoy stunning views of the Seychelles from above.

Denis Private Island