Review: Six Senses Zil Pasyon, Seychelle

If you’re looking for a luxurious, exclusive escape to a tropical paradise, Six Senses Zil Pasyon is… well, it’s definitely an escape. Luxurious? Sure, if your definition is being in one of the world’s most beautiful countries with some of the finest beaches, only to find yourself on an island without a proper beach. Technically, there are two beaches, but both will test your interpretation of what one is. In fact, they seem to be in the process of conjuring one out of thin air — and I’m intrigued to see how that works out.

We stayed in Villa #55, a Panorama Pool Villa, which was an absolute bastard of a trek to reach. Perched so far out of the way, I thought we had accidentally wandered onto a neighbouring island. Without dedicated buggies, you’re left at the mercy of staff remembering to shuttle you around — whenever that happens to be.  The opulence continued with our welcome — a single bottle of sparkling water. Nothing quite says “Welcome to paradise” like rationing your drinks.

The view from the villa was undoubtedly stunning — a beautiful ocean panorama.  The room itself was far more modern than other properties like North and Fregate, which is expected from a newer resort. The bed was perfectly positioned so that you could wake up to the sight of the pool and ocean. A large TV dominated one wall, whilst the rest of the room was focused on ensuring you wouldn’t miss the view. There was also a dedicated wardrobe area, and the bathroom was equally impressive, offering breathtaking views, a Toto toilet, and a massive shower where you could gaze at the scenery while washing away your trek to the villa. Glass doors surrounded the room, giving it an expansive, open-air feel, especially when sitting on the small sofa at the foot of the bed, staring out at the ocean. Cheers to that, you might say, but then you will get billed for it, as the minibar wasn’t included — one of my personal pet peeves. And while they offer nine different pillow options, each one felt like sleeping on a deflated balloon.

Dining was a mixed bag.  My avocado salad arrived without avocado, with the chef offering the delightful excuse of “none available.” Miraculously, the avocado ripened by dinner. I can only assume the chef was hoping I wouldn’t notice its absence earlier. The prices, however, are hard to miss. With sky-high costs far exceeding the quality and an incredibly limited selection, I couldn’t help but feel that an extended stay here might be the end of me.

Service was hit or miss. The first waitress we encountered was in such a foul mood, she could have made the most stunning sunset seem dull. Speaking of sunsets, ours by the water was almost perfect, with champagne (which I don’t drink) and olives (my least favorite food, clearly noted on my stay list) to accompany it. Later, we were offered dinner at their lobster night (allergic). At that point, I was expecting an invitation to the emergency room next.

As for the facilities, the internet moved slower than a turtle in a coma, and everything seemed to be clustered around the helipad — because the constant reminder that you can be evacuated off this island is in fact luxury. The resort does try to impress with some unique touches, such as an ice cream bike, along with the pool, bar, and an honesty bar.  When it comes to relaxation, they’ve provided day beds and overwater nets, reminiscent of Soneva’s design, along with sunset loungers perched on the rocks. There’s even a boutique at the reception, complete with a library on the upper level for some quiet reading. If you happen to arrive too early or depart too late, the resort offers a studio where you can unwind while waiting for check-in or check-out.

The spa, in its defense, is one of the best in Seychelles. It’s an extensive facility featuring a serene pool, sauna, and steam room, as well as a yoga pavilion. Each spa treatment room includes a relaxing swimming hammock, and they also offer a dedicated space for manicures and pedicures. There’s no Wi-Fi in in the spa, which is the antithesis of relaxation.

And then there were the mosquitos. I was promised “no mosquitos,” but clearly, the mosquitos didn’t get the memo. After being bitten to the point that my legs resembled a relief map, I was tempted to demand hazard pay. If I had been quarantined here, I would have lost so much weight from both the bites and the lack of decent food options that people would assume I had been infected. At one point, a letter was sent to our room with Covid-19 precautions, including a nurse checking temperatures on arrival. Oh, how sweet and innocent this time was.

The Good

• Spa
• Room

The Bad

• Food
• Service
• Setting
• Lack of beach

The Luxurious

• I guess you’re in the Seychelles so can easily get to a better island

Conclusion

Go somewhere else.