Fregate Island, a luxurious Robinson Crusoe-like life in Seychelles

The history of Fregate Island began as a pirate hideout in the 17th century. It is believed that the famous French pirate Olivier Levasseur, known as "La Buse", hid his treasure on this island or somewhere nearby and it has yet to be found after countless attempts.

Perhaps it was that same treasure that French explorer Lazare Picault was looking for between 1742 and 1744, who led different expeditions to the Seychelles, which allowed him to discover and name most of the islands of this archipelago of the Indico. Among them, Fregate Island, which he named because of the large number of the exotic frigate birds that populated the island.

This lush green island, which lies 55 kilometers east of Mahé, is populated by coconut palms, takamaka trees, cashew trees, almond trees, the rare Seychelles blackbird, as well as some reintroduced species such as giant Aldabra tortoises and a species of giant beetle that is endemic to Fregate.

But what is most surprising, is that this island is now a privileged hotel: Fregate Island, with a total of 16 luxurious and exclusive villas that look out among the coconut forests, that have been built with organic and natural materials, and offer a Robinson Crusoe-style experience in the 21st century.

 
There are seven completely private beaches around the island, each with its own special characteristics. Victorin Beach, where we can practice the best snorkeling just 15 meters from the shore. Marina Beach, protected by a coral reef and always calm. Anse Park, which we reached by walking along a jungle trail, passing giant tortoises heading for their mud bath. The Bamboo beach, ideal for surfers. Grand Anse, our favorite for watching the magnificent sunsets, and Anse Victorin, undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and impossible to describe in words.

Conservation and sustainability are two of the strengths of Fregate Island. About 80% of the food is locally sourced, and throughout our visit, we can participate in different conservation projects, observe giant tortoises and exotic birds roaming freely, help turtle hatchlings return to the sea, and grow sea corals, among other experiences.

In fact, the sandy beaches of Fregate Island provide vital nesting habitat for two species of sea turtles: the critically endangered hawksbill turtle and the endangered green turtle. The Seychelles remain one of the few places on Earth where sea turtles come ashore to nest during the daytime, between the months of October and January.