Chepsted Chalets

Each unit works as a proper self-catering apartment with everything needed for daily life. The kitchen is fully equipped, and there is a washing machine on site, which guests singled out as a rare and welcome extra. Bedrooms are described as spacious and well kept, the beds comfortable, and the air conditioning new. Outside, an extra shower and sink let guests rinse off beach sand before heading indoors, so most of it stays out of the rooms.

Celestine owns the place and runs it with her staff, and the care shows in small touches. Several guests found a welcome gift waiting in the fridge, eggs, butter, bread, water and jam, and even laundry detergent. Fresh fruit was prepared and brought over each morning.

The chalets sit right on the edge of the jungle, which shapes the evenings here. Guests watch birds settle and large bats cross the sky just in front of them as the light fades. The closeness to the forest keeps the setting green and private, and the sea view holds through it all. It suits travellers who want quiet, space and nature close at hand.

Sorento is a hillside pocket of Glacis, on the northern arm of Mahé, within reach of Beau Vallon and the north-coast beaches. This part of Glacis already holds a few places to stay, so Chepsted stands on its own points. It is the one right against the jungle, where birds and bats appear at dusk, and where owner Celestine leaves a stocked fridge and carries fresh fruit over each morning. The outdoor rinse shower for beach sand is a practical touch after a day by the water. Roads through northern Mahé are winding, so a hire car makes getting around easiest.