Island Group:  Inner Islands
Area Size:  1.27 km²
Maximum Altitude:  108 m / 354 ft
Distance from Mahé:  4 km
Island Highlights:  Coral Reef, Snorkelling, Giant Tortoises, Fine Dining, Marine Life, Kayaking, Nature Trails

Cerf Island is the second largest island in the Sainte Anne Marine National Park, originally named after the navy frigate "Le Cerf" back in 1756.  It is Mahé's closest neighbour with just a 15 minute boat ride between the two.  Consequently, it is the ideal location to visit for an afternoon picnic or stroll along the beach.  

Cerf has a small population of about 100 people, most of who commute to Mahé each day to work or shop.

The north coast of Cerf boasts a superb coral reef, presenting wonderful snorkelling and diving opportunities.  The deepest part of the marine park is around 25 metres (75 ft).  It offers a multitude of marine life to explore, including 150 species of reef fish, crabs, sea urchins, starfish and octopus to name but a few. 

Historically, the island of Cerf was home to a thriving coconut industry, of which many coconut palm remnants still remain to this day.  In addition, the island is also home to a variety of different exotic shrubs, a large population of giant tortoises and flying foxes.

Cerf Island Resort

Cerf Island Resort is one of six different accommodation choices on the island, providing luxurious villas in a private and natural setting, nestled in the hillside.  This boutique hotel offers 24 traditional villas in three different categories (12 Hillside Villas, 7 Hideaway Villas and 5 Tortoise Suites).  Each villa has been given a Creole name after local trees and fish and offers beautiful views over tropical vegetation and glimmers of the Indian Ocean.  Each villa is fully equipped with air-conditioning, private terrace, satellite television, tea and coffee facilities, mini-bar, DVD/CD player and Internet access. Library books, CDs and DVDs are also available upon request.

There are two infinity swimming pools within the resort, both with pool bars, sun loungers and views over the marine park. 

There are two fine dining restaurants within the resort, '1756' and 'Zepis', both open for breakfast, lunch and evening meals and serve dishes made with fresh local ingredients.  1756 provides stunning 180° views across the marine park waters to the neighbouring islands of Mahé and Sainte Anne, serving traditional Creole and International cuisine.  Meanwhile Zepis again boasts wonderful views of Mahé and the Marine Park, serving Asian and International cuisine.  The pool bar is open throughout the day for drinks and also serves light lunches.  The cocktail bar is open after lunch and dinner and is the perfect place for a pre-dinner drink and has a wide range of traditional cocktails on offer.  At an additional cost, private dining on the beach and within villas can be arranged, perfect for honeymooners and special occasions.  To make that special occasion even more memorable, private cocktails on the helipad can be arranged - the best spot on the island to watch the sunset.

There are a whole host of exciting activities on the island to get involved in, leaving no time to get bored.  Snorkelling equipment, kayaks, pedal boats and the tennis court are available for complimentary guest use.  A variety of excursions can also be arranged at the hotel, including fishing, diving and snorkelling trips as well as island nature trails.

For ultimate relaxation Le Spa Latanier and its three treatment rooms offer a variety of massages and beauty treatments, an outdoor Jacuzzi, steam room, indoor and outdoor lounges.  In-room massages can also be arranged.

Photographs kindly provided by Holly Payne

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