Bird Island Lodge offers a unique blend of hospitality, relaxation and simplicity in a non-sophisticated and natural environment.

Bird Island, perched on the edge of the Seychelles continental shelf is the most northerly island of the Seychelles Archipelago, 60 miles away from Mahé.

A 30 minute flight from Mahé by light aircraft gives the first stunning impressions of this tiny 170 acre coral cay. Shades of turquoise and blue warm Indian Ocean which define the reef and continental shelf contrast vividly with the 5km of soft, white sand and tropical green island vegetation.

The east and south sides are surrounded by a protective barrier reef which is home to many varieties of colourful tropical fish and the rest is an open beach which offers superb safe swimming conditions.

Bird Island offers a magical holiday experience. Endless stretches of fine white coral sand beaches give a true 'castaway' feeling. The emphasis is very much on relaxation and informality. It is a true retreat from today's busy world.

Guests stay at Bird Island Lodge which is the only hotel on the island. Apart from the guests and staff, there are no other human inhabitants. Manned entirely by friendly Seychellois staff, offering no gimmicks, the Lodge is your base to explore all aspects of this beautiful island.

There are no pretentions here on Bird Island:
. No televisions in the rooms - which would detract from the natural sounds and sights around you.
. No air-conditioning - excellent natural ventilation and ceiling fans ensure the rooms are always kept cool.
. No telephones in the rooms - telephone, fax and E-mail facilities available at the office.
. No swimming pool - the beach offers excellent and safe swimming at all times.
. No intrusive service - friendly staff are always attentive and ready with a smile.

The main hotel building houses the Reception, Lounge, Restaurant and Bar.

There 24 simple but very comfortable individual chalets nestled amongst what remains of the island's old coconut plantation. Each has a king-sized bed, large shower room and separate toilet, lounge corner and spacious patio overlooking the gardens to the sea beyond. Each chalet will accommodate a third adult and child or two extra children.

The buffet style restaurant serves local cuisine in an informal setting using mostly fresh produce including fresh fish and vegetables from the island.

Due to the island's proximity to the Seychelles Continental Shelf, both game and bottom fishing are excellent and are available at a fee. Fishing starts immediately the boat leaves the protection of the reef.

Things to do
Billiards/Pool table . Games: Scrabble, Backgammon, cards and other board games are available at the bar . A well stocked library of over 1000 books, the majority in English, French and German. Some other languages are also available 
. Nature Tours: A guided tour which gives an insight into the island's flora and fauna takes place regularly . Sea Kayaks: Single and double kayaks (and life jackets) are available and guests are fully briefed before use . Snorkelling Equipment: A good range of equipment is available for guests' use . Table tennis . Game Fishing/Bottom Fishing .  Or Simply NOTHING!

In the 37 years that Bird Island has been owned by Mr. Savy and his partners, the story of the island is one of maximization of the island's conservation value in parallel with the development of a small tourist facility, Bird Island Lodge. The programme adopted from the outset comprised one of the world's first ecotourism ventures, and has been extremely successful in both aspects of conservation and tourism.

In 1994, Bird Island was runner up in the British Airways "Tourism for Tomorrow Award". Currently updating membership of Green Globe, an international Ecotourism organization that promotes active conservation participation and sustainable development within the tourism industry.

Essential Information
. Beach Towels available from Reception.
. Boutique: There is a wide range of hand printed t-shirts, shorts and sarongs for both adults and children. Films, shampoo and sun cream are always available.
. Children: Babysitting and early dinner available on request.
. Disabled Access: Ramp access to all chalets and bar/restaurant for wheelchairs is available. Island trails suitable for wheelchairs.
. Although the atmosphere is informal, gentlemen are requested to wear trousers in the bar & restaurant from 7pm.
. Electricity 24 hours a day. 220-240V. Each chalet has 13A UK standard socket outlets. Continental adaptors available.
. Safe deposit in each chalet

Luggage allowance to Bird Island is 10kg per person.
Pictures courtesy of Bird Island

For further information about Bird Island Lodge and its wildlife, flora & marine life, please click here