Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island

You’ll certainly have lots of space to yourself here - the Four Seasons is is the only resort on the island of Desroches, which is a tropical jewel of offshore coral and swaying palm trees, with 14km of white sand beaches on the doorstep.  

The accommodation is spread across beautiful suites, villas, bungalows and residences, all extremely luxurious and decked out in a laid-back, beach-chic style, with wicker furniture and tropical plants, alongside a private pool or plunge pool. All of them open out onto the sand, and hammocks are strung out between palm trees outside your door. You’ll also spot one-off artefacts which have wound up on the island thanks to the Seychelles’ long history on the maritime trading route.

With a Sunset Beach Villa, on the island’s west beach, you’ll see out each day in unforgettable style with a beautiful Seychelles sunset. Outdoor showers allow true immersion in nature, while lush tropical vegetation offers privacy on all sides. For larger groups, the three to five-bedroom Residence Villas are luxurious sanctuaries with plenty of extra space.

For casual dining throughout the day, head to Claudine, where you’ll find fresh Mediterranean food combining influences from France, Italy, Spain and Portugal. Seafood, of course, is high on the agenda - expect octopus tentacles with patatas bravas and snapper fillet, to name a few, alongside meat dishes such as lamb pastilla.

For a more formal dinner, check out The Lighthouse to enjoy the catch of the day overlooking the ocean. The Lighthouse Lounge is perfect for a post-dinner cocktail, while the informal Beach Bar serves drinks all day.

The Circle of Connection spa, as its name suggests, takes a holistic approach to wellbeing, with a variety of wellness therapies on offer aimed at soothing both body and mind. These range from traditional massages, wraps and facials to yoga sessions and ‘connection rituals’, which combine meditation with scrubs and masks. There is also a yoga pavilion and a fitness centre, as well as a beachside infinity pool.

This is such a relaxing destination that you’d be forgiven for doing nothing more than lounging on the beach or in your private pool. If you’re feeling more energetic than that, though, there are plenty of activities to keep you occupied. Indulge in some water sports or play beach volleyball, or borrow a bike and explore the trails which run through the island’s interior.

Visit the tortoise sanctuary and learn about the majestic Aldabra giant tortoise, or head to the interactive Discovery Centre to find out more about local marine life. You can also visit the island’s village, home to just 100 people, to meet the locals and learn about traditional island life.