Seychelles hotels: La Reserve or L'Archipel
 

I'm thinking of hitting the Seychelles after a Safari in December 2005. I'm having trouble deciding between two hotels on Praslin: La Reserve or L'Archipel. Any experiences with either of these? I'm looking for a nice, quiet place where I can lounge around and read a book. There has to be good snorkeling at the property with additional snorkeling excurions to destinations near by. It sounds like La Reserve has good snorkeling, but I'm not sure about L'Archipel. There is also a note about upcoming renovations at La Reserve. Anyone seen/heard when these will be done? Thanks in advance!

Before the new property of Lemuria was built, La Reserve and L'Archipel were the top rated hotels on Praslin. However, I do recall that La Reserve didn't have air conditioning, though not certain whether L'Archipel did or not.

The one thing I feel you must have is a/c, as it is very hot and humid in SEZ. It's possible with the upcoming renovations at La Reserve they will be installing a/c - do check for a/c at both properties. And do find out if or when L'Archipel has been or will be renovated - it's been about 7-years since I've been to the Seychelles.

Not being an "in-water" person, I cannot comment on the quality of the snorkeling or diving at these individual properties, but there's always something nearby - the island is small.

Recent news did indicate there was damage from the tsunami to Praslin Island, so do check where and if any of these properties were affected; if so, that repairs will have been done (which I assume they will in a year) by the time you visit.

Thanks for the reply Sandi. You're always so helpful on this board. :)

Both L'Archipel and La Reserve say they have air conditioning in the rooms. I've emailed La Reserve about the renovations. I don't want to take a chance of being there while it's under construction!

La Reserve has had air conditioning in all rooms for the last 3 years. They are rebuilding half of the property with a November, 2005 scheduled completion date. They are in Seychelles ... they will not be done by November (also note they are telporarily closed because of tsunami damage).

L'Archipel is ok but very, very French. If you are American, reread the previous sentence.

Snorkeling is very good at both; food is better at La Reserve and the staff is friendlier.

NoFlyZone - good to hear about the a/c at La Reserve. When we visited, we met a couple staying there who changed their room nightly hoping to get one that was a tad bit cooler. Glad to know they've come into the 21st Century.

Thanks for the very, very helpful info NoFlyZone!

I just got an email from La Reserve confirming a planned completion of Nov 2005 for the renovations, but the repairs from the tsunami will delay that a bit. Unfortunately that puts La Reserve out of the running for my trip. Cutting it too close for me. :(

NoFlyZone, what do you mean by saying "L'Archipel is ok but very, very French. If you are American, reread the previous sentence." Please explain. Thanks

I found L'Archipel preferable to La Reserve, the latter too far out there on the road/too claustrophobic in its small bay backed by high cliffs for my taste. L'Archipel overlooks/borders one end Cote d'Or beach -- with lots of beach to stroll. Anse Lazio is accessible by beach buggy -- or a long walk, well worth it. L'Archipel IS French, rather 'INDOCHINE' in feeling --but that's part of its appeal, no, for many, me included.

Thank you tivertonhouse. When did you visit L'Archipel? Any comments on the snorkeling?

Been twice, for 3 weeks each go/5 years ago was the last trip and planning a return April 2006. The snorkelling's amazing anywhere along this side of Praslin with gin-clear bath tub warm waters -- tho I loved Anse Lazio and La Digue the most.

Tho some dismiss it as elitist, there's a tiny islet called Chauve Souris right off the beach on Cote d'Or opposite the old Cafe des Arts that has luxe accomodations. Used to be Italian-owned (don't know current status) if you
don't cotton up to French style. Most of the places in S seem to have imported staffs/style from Mauritius these days...