Fregate Island Private Completes Total Restoration Project

Fregate Island Private, the exclusive private island sanctuary in the Seychelles and a member of the Oetker Collection, has long been considered one of the world's great conservation sanctuaries. Home to 2,200 free-roaming Giant Aldabra Tortoises as well as numerous other endangered animal and bird species, the island is made up of 1.2 square miles of pure and pristine wilderness with seven private white sand beaches. Now under the management of the Oetker Collection, the island is embarking on a new stage of its life, with the completion of a major refurbishment project unveiling a modern island style and facilities. The renovation work includes the 16 beautifully appointed private pool villas, the ultra-exclusive Banyan Hill Estate comprising three residences, the marina, restaurant, bar and resort's additional swimming pools.

The Oetker Collection owns and manages some of the world's finest hotels including Le Bristol Paris, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc and Eden Rock in St Barths. The group of masterpiece hotels is respected for its one of a kind properties, exquisite attention to detail and high levels of service. Since taking over Fregate Island Private in 2013 the collection has embarked on a major 24-month renovation project to completely refurbish the island focusing on upgrading and modernizing all accommodations and facilities.

The villas have been totally refinished and given a cleaner and more modern feel, with beautiful white linen fabrics complementing the natural African hardwood interiors. The updated style fully complements each villa's existing framework, focused around a huge private pool and Jacuzzi dramatically overlooking the Indian Ocean. There are also updated air conditioning systems, high speed wireless internet, TV systems and mini bars. In addition, all the private pools and pool decks have been totally renovated.

The Presidential Villa, Banyan Hill, long a favorite of those looking for the ultimate retreat, has had its three separate villas and the core entertainment building completely renewed to the standard of the rest of the resort's villas. The commanding view of the Indian Ocean and the privacy of this amazing location sets it apart.

The island's marina has also been restored and brand new equipment introduced. There are now multiple places to relax, socialize and dine around the island, including the Yacht Club, the Anse Bamboo Beach Bar and the island's treehouse – the perfect place to have breakfast in the wild. All the resort's gardens and private green spaces have been groomed to perfection. The property also added a kid's club, located on one of the island's seven beaches.

The renovation work has been guided under the expert hand of Fregate's Managing Director Wayne Kafcsak, a respected resort professional who has managed luxury hotels around the world including Peter Island and Raffles Canouan Island. Staff training has been a major focus for the team, adhering to the excellent Oetker Collection standards. There are 150 staff on the island to service a maximum of approximately 60 guests. Each villa has its own butler, and there are other experts on hand such as a resident Marine Biologist and Conservationists. New Head Chef Alan Larch has added his own special touches in the kitchen and prepares dishes using 70% of ingredients from the hotel's own vegetable gardens. Approximately 80% of fish served in the hotel are caught by the resorts own fisherman.

Fregate Island Private's commitment to conservation is stronger than ever. The resort has significantly improved its Magpie Robin, sea turtle and land tortoise projects. Additional scientific developments continue to advance the property's overall position as a recognized leader in sustainable development. The Island has installed ultramodern fuel-efficient generators to power the island and a wastewater plant that converts wastewater to 95% pure usable water for irrigation.

Fregate Island Private recently purchased a fleet of novel golf carts powered by hybrid technology, as well as new Cummins ultra-fuel saving boat engines. LED and CFC lighting have been installed throughout the property. Finally, major pruning and landscaping improvements completed in several locations on the island have significantly assisted pest control.

Visit website: www.fregate.com/