Le Meridien Fisherman’s Cove

The Le Meridian Fisherman's Cove opened in 1972 and unfortunately hasn't kept up with the times, as much of the property and its furnishings, particularly in the rooms, are tired and in need of a refresh. Still, it has lush gardens with winding stone paths, rock waterfalls, and frangipani flowers, not to mention a beachfront location. The open-air lobby is also pleasant, featuring a steeply pitched thatch roof over gleaming teak floors, stone columns, arrangements of rattan furniture, and wood accent tables. The hotel's stretch of white sand is popular with sunbathers and strollers, as well as snorkelers and divers who are attracted to the adjacent clear water and coral reefs offshore. 

From the terraces of the guest rooms to the tables at the restaurants, the focus remains on the views of the Indian Ocean and colorful sunsets. The hotel's infinity-edge pool, surrounded by a wood deck and cushioned teak lounge chairs, is a popular spot for guests to relax and watch the sea. The child-friendly facilities are lacking, so most guests tend to be relax-minded couples.

Set along a two-mile stretch of Beau Vallon Beach, Le Meridien Fisherman's Cove delivers views of Silhouette and North Island. Guests can stroll to a handful of local restaurants or drive 10 minutes to Victoria -- the archipelago's capital city -- to explore the craft markets. The Seychelles International Airport is a 25-minute car ride away. Free parking is available at the hotel. 

• 6-minute drive to Anse Major
• 10 minute-drive to Victoria market
• 14-minute drive to the National History Museum
• 15-minute drive to the Botanical Gardens
• 25-minute drive to Mission Lodge
• 25-minute-drive to the Seychelles International Airport

Le Meridien's 68 rooms and suites are set in cottage-style buildings surrounded by lush greenery, and accessed via stone pathways. Room decor varies, but all are a bit tired and in need of a refresh; they feature tile floors, simplistic dark or white wood furniture, and white comforters. Some rooms have tropical artwork and patterned couches, while others have stone accent walls or large collages of circular wood cutouts that add a touch of pizazz and personality to the spaces. All rooms come equipped with king-size beds, and furnished balconies or terraces with either ocean or garden views.

Bathrooms are a standout, featuring walk-in showers with rainfall showerheads, separate free-standing bathtubs, bathrobes, slippers, hairdryers, scales, and toiletries. Across the board, amenities include flat-screen TVs, minibars, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and ironing facilities. Suites add living areas with sofas, plus espresso machines, CD players, and iPod docking stations. 

The hotel offers two distinct restaurants and two bars, all with views of the sea. The main restaurant Le Cardinal has themed buffets and live music during dinner, while Le Bourgeois specializes in fresh seafood and pasta dishes. Le Cocoloba Bar is a casual spot for light snacks during the day or cocktails while watching the sunset. The Sunset Bar serves complimentary afternoon tea and coffee with homemade pastries during the afternoon and is a popular spot for pre-dinner or late-nights drinks.

Le Meridien has a lovely (albeit a bit rocky) beach, though it lacks chairs for sunbathing. However, overlooking the water is a long infinity pool that's dotted with rocks and surrounded by blue-cushioned lounge chairs and umbrellas. The small Zen Spa is set in a hut-like structure with a steep roof and large windows that allow for views of the ocean; it has a steam room, outdoor whirlpool, and relaxation area. Treatments range from Balinese massage to moisturizing wraps, incorporating Elemis products. A small but decently equipped gym has cardio and strength-training machines and free weights. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.