Vintage Destination
The Café des Arts is located on Cote d'Or, one of Praslin's finest beaches; there are four kilometres of fine white sand and emerald green water with a sandy sea-floor which makes for safe, wonderful swimming all year round. The Café des Arts faces the tiny islands of Chauve Souris and St. Pierre. Created by two artists, it is distinguished by the style and simplicity of its decor. It is a very small hotel, with only five rooms, and is certainly one of the best-kept secrets of Praslin island. There is also a small art gallery which exhibits the work of its owner, Christine Harter.
Of the five rooms, four are in the quiet tropical garden and one faces the sea. The garden rooms are adjacent to one another, very large, each with its own private veranda. They are built in the traditional style in local materials: hardwoods, coconut and bamboo, with high ceilings that impart a light and airy feeling. Guests can take breakfast on their own veranda or by the beachside if they prefer.
The fifth room is practically on the beach, and opens onto a beautiful wide veranda facing the sea.
All the rooms are equipped with shower and toilet, ceiling fan, king-size bed, mini-bar, and electric kettle. Each room is large enough to accommodate extra beds should the need arise.
The Café des Arts candlelight dinners are a truly tropical experience. They use local ingredients and you will dine by the beach, under the stars and, if you are really lucky, under a full moon. There are also several places to eat within walking distance, in the village.
The Café des Arts itself is situated at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, so those who want to rest and unwind will find the calm they seek. For those wanting action, however, a short walk away there are two diving centres, the busy little marina of Cote d'Or village where one can find a boat to go deep sea fishing, or snorkelling, and take excursions to any of the neighbouring islands. Praslin is surrounded by Marine Parks and bird sanctuaries like Aride and Cousin, and is within easy reach of La Digue and a host of smaller islands like Fregate and the Sisters.
And for those who prefer to remain earthbound, Praslin is, of course, the home of the Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, unique for its coco de mer groves. There are several hikes one can make across the island and most places are accessible by bicycle which is also very popular here.
The Café des Arts really will offer you something special: a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, a very personal service, and above all an incomparable setting in this very beautiful and tranquil corner of Seychelles.
Café des Arts is a 20 minute drive from Praslin airport.