mahe - mountainous beauty
We discover the island of Praslin has a big brother, Mahe.
A mere hour away by ship, we drift over so slowly that we assume the ship is malfunctioning. Thinking all plans will have to be canceled, the curtains are pulled back to reveal towering mountains. Green covers red soil with homes snuggled in like colorful nests. Mahe - what a vision!
We have planned an overnight escape at Constance Ephelia, a luxurious resort spread over 120 hectares of lush tropical surroundings. Eager for this reprieve we leap off the ship. In Singapore, we were inundated with a particular group of ‘whinging’ humans. Also, it’s been two months since we’ve spent more than an afternoon on terra firma!
Our driver collects us and we wind up snake-like roads that cut through thick jungle. The views from this vantage point are breathtaking! Along the way, we are told many island stories and given wonderful suggestions. Conversation flows and before we know it we pull up a stunning drive. The gates are opened with big smiles and warm welcomes!
As we head towards the entrance, a caravan of vehicles unloads a large group. Heaps of cases marked with the SilverSea logo follow and we suddenly realize - this is the group we picked up in Singapore! We have inadvertently trailed the 80 Earl Grey drinking ‘whingers’!
Trevor looks panicked!
I reassure him and jest, ‘I planned it this way, we’re personally escorting this lot off the ship.’
Disgruntled humans occupy the lobby filled with complaints. Staff here are truly wonderful and make sure everyone is taken care of efficiently and with kind hospitality. We are handed cold towels and sweet lemongrass refreshments as they get our suite ready. All is well.
The architecture of the open-air lobby is stunning, dark luxurious woods with cozy nooks to tuck away in abound. Bird song dominates and nature is woven throughout. So much thought has gone into every detail. This property is so large it absorbs everyone and once we settle into our suite, there are but a handful of people around. Time to exhale.
We are welcomed with chocolates in the shape of the coco de mer seeds which are provocative and delicious! Lunch calls a few steps from the beach, an exquisite spread of curried fish steamed in banana leaf fuels us for aimless exploration.
For the keen observer, nature reveals her magic. White birds with long tails nestle at shoulder height in the hollows of trees, large jewel-like spiders are suspended in webs, fruit bats the size of small cats dominate the skies, and flowers of all shapes and colors are found everywhere. Hidden between the trees we discover a beautiful boat-shaped library filled with stories to fall into upon a whim.
A hike up through the jungle to the helicopter pad rewards one with unobstructed views of pure paradise.
Over dinner, we learn the island across the bay is owned by a female entrepreneur from Seychelles. I wish to meet her one day and toast her success! Our host at dinner is kind and welcoming, we trade stories and laughs while birds sing along. She tells us this table will be reserved in our name for tomorrow’s breakfast and bids us a good evening.
A nightcap of Takamaka, the local rum and we pass out feeling like we have been hugged by the day and the rum. I do believe Trevor ordered a drink called, No Drivers License.
Early the next morning, we meet the rising sun cozied up in a palm-suspended chair over white sand. The breeze is light and the shore is teaming with crabs whose large pincers fling sand into neat piles. With a cartoonish look, they all work diligently with an ornery air about them. If another comes too close a small skirmish that resembles a passionate dance ensues. We giggle and can watch this all day, but the placid crystal waters beckon before the sun fully climbs. A swim in this moment brings deep joy.
We excuse ourselves past each working crab and wish them good luck on their burrows, then head off for a late breakfast.
As promised from the night before our table is indeed reserved, and also, decorated beautifully with table runners and delicate flowers. We are moved beyond words by this kindness and feel like royalty as we are the sole guests to receive this attention.
Hair of the dog in the form of mimosas revives us as brilliant Red Fodies perch inches away and sing with gusto. We stretch this brunch to Latin lengths.
Birds sit in a nonchalant manner around the open dining area only to spring into action over unattended leftovers. It’s beautiful mayhem as plates and cups are descended upon leaving nothing behind. Yes, our hosts gently move them along, also I see fellow guests enjoying the eruption of the frenzy. All a dance as humans and nature co-mingle.
A final stroll around the grounds before our driver arrives to return us to our world adventure. This brief immersion in nature with stunning surroundings and luxury service is mentally stored away as a place to revisit.
Next time we arrive by helicopter!
