The distinguished opening event welcomed notable figures, including President Wavel Ramkalawan and First Lady Mrs. Linda Ramkalawan, along with prominent guests from the tourism sector, including the Principal Secretary for Tourism, Mrs. Sherin Francis, the Director General for Destination Marketing at Tourism Seychelles, Mrs. Bernadette Willemin, and Mr Glenny Savy, the Chief Executive Officer of the Island Development Company (IDC).
Hosted by Mr Guy Hutchinson, the Hilton President for Middle East and Africa, the event was marked with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting by President Ramkalawan at one of the luxury villas, followed by the symbolic planting of coco-de-mer trees.
During her speech at the opening ceremony, Mrs. Francis emphasized that the inauguration of Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island Resort marks a bright future for Seychelles Tourism and the ongoing collaboration between Hilton and Seychelles.
“Embarking on this journey, from a visionary concept to the awe-inspiring reality we stand upon today, surpasses even the wildest dreams. As a witness to its evolution, from the initial presentation at the Island Development Company board, I am taken aback by the remarkable end-product. Congratulations to the Hilton team and management for exceeding all expectations. As we marvel at Platte Island’s breathtaking shores, surrounded by the riches of the Indian Ocean, Seychelles’ outstanding natural beauty aligns seamlessly with the prestige of the Waldorf Astoria concept. Nestled in one of the world’s best sea safari spots, this location promises a wild and diverse marine treasure trove—a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking outdoor adventure and serenity.”
Mr. Guy Hutchinson, Hilton President of the Middle East and Africa, expressed his excitement, stating:
“We are thrilled to introduce Waldorf Astoria to the Seychelles – creating a unique destination that beautifully integrates luxury hospitality with the natural beauty of Platte Island.”
“The resort provides unforgettable experiences for guests and features eco-programs and partnerships led by the island’s specialist marine biologist, which aims to preserve and protect the surrounding nature and marine life at this outstanding resort destination.”
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Platte Island, located 130 km south of Mahe, enchants as a haven for nature enthusiasts, featuring palm forests, a coral reef, and a surrounding lagoon. Accessible by plane, the island boasts a diverse ecosystem, serving as breeding grounds for seabirds and a cherished nesting area for hawksbill turtles. The resort effortlessly blends Waldorf Astoria’s renowned service and luxury with the timeless beauty of Platte Island, providing an exclusive experience for discerning travelers.
The property features 50 seafront villas, each providing a sanctuary of lavish comfort and personal concierge services. From one-to-three-bedroom villas to a grand five-bedroom villa with expansive gardens, the resort caters to varied preferences.
Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island invites guests to indulge in the epitome of culinary excellence, with six restaurants and bars showcasing a fusion of international and local flavors. This gastronomic journey promises a sensorial delight for even the most sophisticated palates.
In line with the island’s ecological spirit, the resort has implemented initiatives to preserve and protect the diverse flora and fauna. Efforts include safeguarding the nesting grounds of hawksbill and green turtles on the sandy shores and recognizing the underwater realm of Platte Island as an essential ecological cornerstone.
In her statement, Mrs. Willemin, the Director General for Destination Marketing, said: “Waldorf Astoria is poised to redefine the benchmark for indulgence in our destination, providing an exclusive retreat for travelers in search of the epitome of luxury. With its meticulously designed villas, exceptional service, and culinary excellence, the resort promises an unforgettable experience in paradise, further enhancing Seychelles’ reputation as surely another world.”
As the fifth tourism establishment by the Hilton group in Seychelles, Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island sets a new standard for luxury and sustainability in this pristine tropical destination.