Nestled in the lush vegetation of Cerf Island, this exclusive boutique hotel is owned by Vijay Patel of Vijay Constructions, and managed by Francis Mondon, who is well experienced in the hospitality industry.

With breathtaking scenery of the main island of Mahe that overlooks the Sainte Anne Marine Park, the Cerf Island Resort has doubled its accommodation from 12 to 24 villas.

The villas, which all bear the names of endemic trees, flowers, and marine creatures, are complimented with several facilities, which includes the Lantannyen Spa, tennis court, swimming pool, helipad, and two restaurants – Zepis and Le Cerf. The latter is named after the exploration vessel of Le Cerf, after which the island gained its name.

Witnessing the unveiling of the additional villas of Cerf Island Resort were Minister designate Vincent Meriton; Minister for Investment, Natural Resources, and Industry, Peter Sinon; and CEO of the Seychelles Tourism Board Alain St.Ange, as well as members of the island’s tourism trade.

Invited guests had the opportunity of touring the new villas, as well as to enjoy the panoramic view of the nearby islands of the marine park – Sainte Anne, Long, Round, and Moyenne islands – from the view point from the resort’s helipad.

Following the tours and short ribbon-cutting ceremony, Minster Meriton addressed the evening’s guests by saying that he was pleased to be among the members of VJ Construction, the resort’s management; officials of the Seychelles Tourism Board; and other government agencies, whom he said have all helped to make the project possible.

Minister Meriton noted that Seychelles needs quality establishments, such as Cerf Island Resort, to cater to its high-end clientele, adding that for years Vijay has set standards in different kinds of construction.

“As you expand your investments to other industries such as tourism property development, I am confident that you will continue to uphold the same culture of excellence in all your endeavors. I take this opportunity to wish the management of the Cerf Island Resort success in the new venture,” said Minister Meriton, in ending his address.

Mr. St.Ange who also took the floor to express words of satisfaction and encouragement said that he is impressed with the resort as it fits well with the “Seychelles brand,” which was launched last year by President James Michel, who also holds the portfolio for tourism.

The Cerf Island Resort was a bold investment by local resident, and as such, is a good a response to President’s Michel call to “claim back our tourism industry.”

Mr. Patel on his part reflected on how the resort came to be, saying that it all started 10 years ago, when Vijay Construction was provided with the opportunity of purchasing the property from the original investors.

He noted that the resort blends well with nature with a lot wood used in the construction while concrete has been kept to a minimum and is characterized by an in-house design.

Mr. Patel also mentioned that most staff of the resort are Seychellois.

Cerf Island Resort is a mere 10-minutes boat ride away from the main island of Mahe, and is ideal for a tropical beach holiday in the Seychelles islands.