Coco De Mer Hotel And Black Parrot

Two hundred acres of gorgeous green grounds provide a beautiful setting for this upscale beachfront hotel. Paths and staircases weave through lush greenery and past pretty water features like fountains and koi ponds. Architecture mixes traditional island stylings like sloped roofs and local materials such as stone and wood, with sleek, contemporary decor and a subtle tropical flair. The large lobby features a beautiful sloped wooden ceiling studded with skylights that make the space bright and airy. Wicker furniture provides seating and lends a breezy island vibe, while arched windows overlook greenery. Most of the action takes place outdoors -- but with most public spaces being partially open-air, the sea breeze permeates throughout.

The resort is divided into two different areas: the main portion of the property, and the Black Parrot wing, where the Junior Suites reside. This area offers a more exclusive atmosphere and has its own outdoor pool. The vibe is more tranquil here, as kids under 14 aren't allowed in Junior Suites. By dividing the property into two sections, the hotel does a great job at catering to a range of travelers -- both families with kids as well as couples seeking a more peaceful atmosphere should be satisfied here.

The hotel occupies a beautiful beachfront location at Anse Bois de Rose on Praslin Island's southeast coast. It's a fairly secluded area with not much around, so a car is advised for those who want to explore the island. The picturesque Pointe Cocos and Pointe Consolation are a three- and five-minute drive, respectively. Other nearby attractions include Praslin National Park, which is an 11-minute drive. The beautiful Anse Volbert is home to the Cote D'Or Beach, restaurants, hotels, and the Praslin Museum, all about a 20-minute drive away. The Praslin Marina is an 11-minute drive, and there's a supermarket in that area as well. To get to Praslin Island, travelers can take a ferry from Mahé, or fly into Praslin Island Airport, which is a 16-minute drive away.

Rooms are spacious and pleasantly decorated in a simple style. Light wood headboards with built-in nightstands and lights frame beds. Sloped wooden ceilings give the spaces a cozy, inviting atmosphere, and make the rooms feel airy. All rooms open onto lovely private patios/terraces furnished with wooden chairs and tables, with direct access to the gardens in many. There are soaking tubs in the bedrooms, and other standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, electric kettles, air-conditioning, and safes, but only Junior Suites have free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are fairly simple and lackluster, covered in beige tiling and outfitted with glass-enclosed showers, double sinks, toilets, and bidets. 

Junior Suites offer various extra services and amenities, as well as a more tranquil atmosphere due to the fact that kids under 14 are not allowed to stay in them. The suites are also larger than the guest rooms, with living room areas and private furnished balconies with beautiful sea views. Additional amenities include iPod docks, coffeemakers, bathrobes, and slippers.

One of the highlights here is the hotel's beach, a beautiful stretch of sand bordered by trees and lush greenery that offers shade over the loungers and hammocks lining the shore. There's more seating on a terraced area a bit further up, with hammocks strung between palms as well as sunbeds lining the sand. A dock over the water offers more shaded seating, furnished with comfortable padded sunbeds and circular loungers. Kayaks and paddleboards are free for guests to borrow. Travelers who want to explore other beaches can utilize the hotel's free shuttle bus to Anse Lazio Beach, which operates several times a week.

The hotel has two beautiful outdoor pools, both scenically set overlooking the ocean. Umbrella-shaded loungers line the surrounding sundecks, while tall palm trees add some shade and a tropical dose of greenery. One of the pools is in the Black Parrot wing of the property, and is only for guests staying in Junior Suites.

The hotel has two restaurants and a bar. The Mango Terrace Bar and Restaurant is a casual poolside spot that serves a la carte lunches and dinners. The Hibiscus Restaurant offers buffet and full English breakfasts (included in rates) as well as Creole and international fare throughout the day. It's also host to themed buffets and barbecues, plus live entertainment is offered several evenings a week. Half board rates are available.

A small on-site fitness center offers a decent amount of equipment in a pleasant space. There's also a spa with three treatment rooms and a varied menu of massages, facials, body wraps, beauty treatments, and hair and nail services. Other on-site features include late checkout facilities with bathrooms and showers, plus luggage storage. The property is a popular wedding venue and there's a wedding coordinator on-site.  Wi-Fi is free in public areas.