Sitting on a fine sand beach with my travel sketchbook and portable watercolor set, I attempted to render the picture-postcard scenery comprising unbelievably clear turquoise waters and mystical granite boulders fringed by endemic greenery. The serenade of the crashing waves was often interrupted by strong gusts of wind that blew away my art supplies. However, the sun was shining after two days of incessant rain and one must seize the day.

The weather gods dictate your travel plans on Silhouette, the Seychelles little-known granitic island located 20 kilometers (about 12.5 miles) northwest of the archipelago's largest island of Mahé. Appearing like a forested mountain dramatically jutting out of the Indian Ocean, Silhouette Island is a serendipitous discovery for anyone who dares to venture off the East African country's obvious destinations like Praslin, Mahé, and La Digue, in quest of raw wilderness, tranquility, and the idea of going with the flow.

An eroded remnant of a massive volcano formed around 63 million years ago, Silhouette was Seychelles first island to be sighted by Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama and his fleet in 1503 while voyaging from India to East Africa. However, it wasn't until the arrival of the British in 1609 that humans first set foot on its shore, followed by the French who not only settled here and cultivated plantation crops like cinnamon, breadfruit, copra (coconut), and vanilla but also named the island after their finance minister Étienne de Silhouette.

Despite its colonization history, much of the 20 square kilometer (about 7.7 square mile) island remains unspoiled, with 93% of its landmass declared a national park and the surrounding waters designated a marine conservation area.

Today, Silhouette's fewer than 200 nature-loving inhabitants work hand in hand with The Island Conservation Society (ICS) to preserve the earthly paradise and nurture its exceptional biodiversity. Anticipate marine reefs brimming with colorful fish, juvenile green turtles, whale sharks, and manta rays, and misty montane woodlands playing a habitat to the rare coco de mer and other indigenous flowering plants. There are also native avian species like the Seychelles kestrel and endangered or vulnerable animals like the elusive sheath-tailed bat, tiger chameleon, and some of the largest Aldabra giant tortoises in the country.

With trends like "calmcations" and "earth-friendly holidays" gaining momentum, Silhouette Island is a much-needed, mindful escape from the hubbub of day-to-day life, inspiring you to fully absorb the quietude, revel in a real sense of discovery, and reconnect with yourself and your surroundings. Plus, the extraordinary destination is undergoing a slow, eco-conscious transformation. Plans for a new 26-room nature lodge in the enchanting Grand Barbe, a pristine turtle-nesting beach, are underway; it's a welcome addition to its two existing luxe accommodation options.

As someone who loves a good wildlife adventure as much as beach picnics and sunsets, I was mesmerized by the contrasting terrain and the sheer number of things to do at the tiny yet multifaceted Silhouette Island. Here's everything you need to know when planning a getaway to this gem of a place. 

What To Do

A good way to commence your journey in Silhouette is digging into its past at Grann Kaz, an old plantation house converted into a museum in the island's main settlement of La Passe. Built around 1861 as the family home of Henri Dauban,  Silhouette's last French owner, the stylish colonial mansion reflects a mix of Creole and European cultural influences and architectural details. Browse the exhibits and newspaper clips about the discovery of the island and its annexation by the French, and learn about the lifestyle of the Daubans through their belongings ranging from antique crockery, cutlery, and furniture to letters, family photographs, and articles, including one by novelist and "James Bond" creator Ian Fleming who dined with Henri.

Also, be prepared to be entertained by a ghost story or two. According to locals, the long-dead members of the Dauban family still roam between their ancestral abode and the nearby burial chamber; young Eva is supposedly often seen jumping on her bed on the first floor of the house.

There are several ways to savor Silhouette's splendid beauty. Step out for a therapeutic sunrise beach walk and you might have a stretch of coast all to yourself. Rent a bike to discover the island at your own pace or silently contemplate with the setting sun as your companion.

Whether or not you're staying at Hilton Labriz Resort & Spa, visit its naturalistic tortoise sanctuary to feed or simply observe the Seychelles endemic Aldabra giant tortoises that live for over 150 years and weigh up to 250 kilograms (about 550 pounds). The hotel and ICS staff care for the juvenile and sub-adult tortoises until they are large enough to defend themselves against predators. The true giants are seen wandering freely near Grand Barbe village.

The island boasts hiking trails that wind through its verdant interiors, displaying countless shades of blue and green. A 3.7-kilometer (about 2.3-mile) out-and-back trail, Ramasse Tout is a pleasant 48-minute hike with ample highlights. While you're on the path, take in the spicy aroma of freshly peeled cinnamon bark and make pitstops at the Old Cemetery and the Virgin Mary shrine sitting on the rocks at Pointe Ramasse Tout before arriving at a small, charming beach and making your way back. What remains constant throughout the hike are serene vistas made of rugged cliffs, picturesque bays, and palm-shaded coves with glistening waters.

Surrounded by coconut trees, the imposing Dauban Mausoleum across the hikes starting point (also the end point) is a must-visit for its elegant design and six proportionally massive columns inspired by La Madeleine in Paris. Experienced hikers and birders can try the challenging climb to Grande Barbe; the 10-kilometer (about 6.2-mile) guided trail runs directly beneath Mount Dauban, the country's second-highest peak at 740 meters (about 809 yards).

With great underwater visibility, water enthusiasts can swim, snorkel, or dive. Hilton Labriz Resort and Spa offers guided lessons and all equipment including kayaks and paddleboards. Fancy a traditional fishing trip for a fresh Small Red Snapper or Jobfish? End the excursion by letting the hotel cook your fresh catch for lunch or dinner alongside a private BBQ.

Where To Stay

At the moment, compact Silhouette Island offers two stay options. For luxury and creature comforts combined with top-notch service and an array of dining venues, pick Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa. While all of its 100-plus rooms are spacious and come with an outdoor rain shower, bathtub, and a private sit-out area, the beachfront villas are a tropical haven with direct access to a gorgeous, well-maintained stretch of beach. They have two pools and a spa, as well as a dedicated activity center.

If you prefer a boutique stay, Hôtel La Belle Tortue is a quaint, peaceful retreat with a private white sand beach, well-furnished rooms sprinkled with Creole colors and decorative elements, and two dining establishments serving gourmet cuisine.

Where To Eat

You haven't visited Silhouette until you've tasted Creole specialties. While here, don't miss dining at the restaurant housed in the restored residence of the Daubans who ran and influenced the island for over a century. The dinner menu at Hilton-managed Grann Kaz features dishes that blend the island's English and French heritage with contemporary Seychellois soul. Everything is prepared using locally sourced ingredients. The must-tries from the Tide to Table segment of the menu are the Silhouette octopus curry, oven-baked marinated jobfish in banana leaf, and pan-fried red snapper with lemongrass. Finish the meal with coconut nougat or caramelized banana with Takamaka Rum and ice cream.

There is no dearth of dining establishments within Hilton Labriz Resort & Spa. Sip an island-inspired rum-based cocktail or a signature sangria at the chic Lo Brizan bar before indulging in Japanese and Asian fusion cuisine amid Sakura's soothing, dimly-lit atmosphere. Portobello, which has a wine cellar and both indoor and outdoor seating, is an excellent spot for Italian favorites like pasta, risotto, and Tiramisu.

At La Belle Tortue's Eva's Table, fresh market produce, local flavors, and French cooking techniques come together in a four-course menu that changes daily. Here, you get to sample original recipes with a side of sea breeze and garden views. 

When To Go

While Silhouette Island is open all year round, a visit during the dry season, between May and October, promises cooler temperatures, bright sunshine, little rain, and mild winds, creating perfect conditions for jungle hikes, water sports, and beach time. It's best to avoid the months of November to April when there is higher humidity and afternoon downpours. Irrespective of the seasonal calendar, be prepared to deal with the island country's complex weather characterized by sporadic rain throughout the year. 

How To Get There

While Silhouette could feel isolated from the rest of the world, it is accessible with a 45-minute to one-hour boat ride from the main island of Mahé. Take a flight to Mahé followed by a boat transfer from its Bel Ombre jetty to Silhouette Island. Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa typically arranges hassle-free transfers for guests. Alternatively, you can opt for a quicker 15-minute helicopter ride from Mahé to Silhouette Island.

Combine With

Combine a trip to Silhouette Island with visits to the other Seychelles islands, including Mahé, La Digue, coral atoll Aldabra, and Praslin with its famed Vallée de Mai Forest. Or, combine it with a larger trip to Tanzania or Madagascar.

Know Before You Go

• Silhouette is a secluded island with no roads meaning you cannot drive around the island. Be prepared to stay active by walking and bicycling. There are limited hotels, restaurants, and amenities on the island. It is ideal for people seeking a peaceful time in nature, away from distractions.
  
  
• Make sure to carry specific medication or toiletries if needed. There are no major stores or pharmacies on the island.
  
  
• Prices of food and drinks in Silhouette could be higher than those in Mahé and other touristy places in the Seychelles.
  
  
• Pack a few pairs of quick-dry clothing, an umbrella, and a windcheater considering the island's unpredictable weather.