Seychelles is not the world’s best known surfing destination, but that does not mean that fate does not offer good waves for those who want to venture out. And the great difference is that, since there are few people who know this side of the archipelago, the waters do not get full of surfers disputing the waves. On many occasions, they are shared only with sea turtles and flying fish, or perhaps some local surfers. And all this in one of the most paradisiacal scenery in the world.

For those who want to uncover this secret side of the archipelago, Four Seasons Resort Seychelles offers some retreats that combine surfing, yoga and massage. The hotel has a partnership with TropicSurf, specializing in luxury surfing, lessons and paddle boarding. People of all ages and skill levels can participate and have an exclusive experience in the Indian Ocean. Beginners in the sport learn the basics at the resort and can surf on larger waves at other nearby beaches. You can also choose to spend the whole week running the island of Mahé and discover the best waves of crystalline waters of the destination.

There are three retreats offered on site. The first is called A Dip in the Ocean, which includes a good combination of the three activities and is suitable for beginners. A one-hour yoga session will lengthen the muscles and prepare the body for a surfing lesson, which happens later. After all the adrenaline of catching the waves, the guest receives a special massage for surfers, the Surfer’s Massage, in the resort’s spa. It is a body massage that focuses on the areas and muscles most used during surfing and helps relieve tension in the shoulders and torso. The retreat also includes an hour’s paddle board rental.

Go With the Flow maximizes yoga time, strengthening mind and body for surfing. There are five one-hour yoga sessions, two beginner surfing lessons and one day paddle board rental. Finally, The Perfect Wave program is ideal for intermediate surfers who want to hone their skills. There are several classes focused on the individual needs of each guest, which are taken to the best places to surf the island to develop techniques and skills in the sport. Included are four beginner or intermediate surfing lessons, energy bars, an hour of massage, one hour of yoga, one day of paddle board rental and access to any yoga group class. The retreats are paid for and additional surfing or paddle board classes, yoga sessions and massages can be added to the programs.

Each season of the year offers different conditions for surfing, with more consistent waves between the months of May and October, usually. Unlike other famous destinations among sports fans, the archipelago has no giant waves, but offers authentic surfing experiences and is great fun on unique and paradisiacal beaches.

Photo: Four Seasons Resort