Remote, pristine and staggeringly beautiful, the Seychelles is the place to come for a relaxing luxury holiday or honeymoon if you like your beaches au naturel. Here hotels are designed so as not to disturb the turtles laying eggs on golden sands, endangered species are slowly being reintroduced and you'll have to share your island with the wild-roaming giant tortoises. Some of our favourite luxury beach hotels here are those that work in harmony with their pristine environment while offering the very best in stylish, boutique accommodation.
Mahe
The largest of the Seychelles islands, with 65 gorgeous beaches dotted with enormous granite boulders (the oldest on earth) and the world’s smallest capital city, Victoria. Check out super-luxe Maia Luxury Resort & Spa for sheer, unadulterated relaxation and pampering.
Praslin
The archipelago’s second largest island (at 44 square miles) is covered in ancient tropical forest home to the Seychelles black parrot. The beaches here are dreamy with excellent snorkelling, and we love the golf course at the Constance Lemuria.
La Digue
On magical La Digue, the locals still get about mainly by bike or ox-cart and life is slow and tranquil. The pink granite boulders on Anse Source d’Argent Beach are best seen as the sun sets. Visit as a day trip from Praslin.
Fregate Island
Watch the aerial acrobatics of the fregate bird from your private terrace at Fregate Island and give giant tortoises a wide berth on your way to the spa. Nature and luxury are at their most inspirational in this castaway heaven.
North Island
Robinson Crusoe meets Noah’s Ark on this gorgeous desert island and conservation project. North Island is the ultimate barefoot luxury retreat.
Cousine Island
A glorious beach, a hammock, a long, cool drink and utter privacy and isolation. Conservation is key on Cousine and nature walks here are very rewarding.
Denis Island
Only a privileged few can enjoy tiny Denis Island and its eye-wateringly beautiful beaches. Charter a private boat to try your hand at fishing in the abundant seas or learn to dive at the island’s own dive centre.
