Photo © John Athimaritis / Six Senses Zil Pasyon
By Allie Murray
Every year in October, Hawksbill turtles begin nesting along the shores of Seychelles, bringing tourists and conservationists alike to Six Senses Zil Pasyon to witness the phenomenon firsthand.
At Six Senses Zil Pasyon, guests can not only marvel at the natural wildlife but also enjoy scenic views, tropical weather, and sustainability initiatives that give back to the planet.
The luxury resort has put a focus on sustainability and conservation, partnering with the Olive Ridley Project—a charity dedicated to protecting sea turtles and their habitats—to support sea turtle conservation in Seychelles. The partnership allows them to focus on research, education, and outreach for turtle populations in Seychelles.
“Sea turtles are a big part of the natural ecosystem in Seychelles, and considering that Seychelles holds some of the largest Hawksbill turtle populations worldwide, a thorough conservation program is crucial to have,” Six Senses Zil Pasyon general manager Tim Bilfinger explained.
Habitat conservation has long been a focus for Six Senses Zil Pasyon—so much so that when the resort was built some six years ago, the landscaping concept focused on habitat restoration. The environment at the resort uses only plants, shrubs and trees that are indigenous to Seychelles.
“Every aspect of the resort is designed to work in harmony with the environment,” marketing communications manager Lina Suryati explained. “Our sensitive architecture is matched by intelligent ecological practices, committed to preserving and nurturing our tropical home.”
Through their projects, Six Senses Zil Pasyon has been able to eliminate more than 119,000 plastic bottles, hatch 367 critically endangered Hawksbill turtles in the 2021/2022 season, and protect 15,000 square metres of native trees.
While visiting Seychelles, Six Senses Zil Pasyon makes for the perfect place to relax. The resort takes up only one-third of the island’s mass so as not to disrupt the natural landscapes.
The resort hosts 30 villas plus three private residences, which are designed to be advantageous for seclusion, incorporating surrounding tropical foliage and beautiful vistas along the shores of the Indian Ocean. The villas include infinity pools, panoramic views of the ocean, and lush tropical vegetation.
Going forward, Six Senses Zil Pasyon is focusing on a variety of conservation projects, including continuing their work with Olive Ridley Project, reforestation of Félicité by planting indigenous species back on the island, partnerships with local schools to assist in sustainability and conservation education, and more.
