North Island is a 250-hectare mini-paradise where self-indulgence and eco-tourism fuse seamlessly. Now in operation for five years, it offers its visitors nature-inspired luxury all wrapped up in the untouched beauty of the Seychelles. And make no mistake about it, this is somewhere that takes conservation very seriously. Right from the beginning the plan has been to turn the island’s ecological clock back 200 years and now giant tortoises and the rare Seychelles White-eye bird have gradually been reintroduced, along with indigenous trees like the takamaka and legendary Coco de Mer palm.

Of course, this same eco-sensitive approach was applied to the lodge itself, with limited development and limited noise the order of the day. Just eleven ylang-ylang thatched villas are secreted away amidst the island’s verdant foliage, each one a generous 4,890 square-feet in size and distinguished by their fashionably rustic designs and use of raw and rough materials. Chunky oversized furnishings and subtle natural colours combine with sunken baths, canopied daybeds and private pools to establish the general theme, with refrigerators, tea/coffee makers, DVDs, CD players and wireless internet connection all catering for contemporary demands. Of course, private villa attendants are on hand to cater to your every whim.

By day, the choice generally falls between guilt-free relaxation or non-stop adventure. The meandering swimming pool, trio of beaches and holistic spa treatments are perfect for the former; the snorkelling, scuba-diving, birding, fishing trips and guided sea kayaking and walking trips catering for the latter. At night you can dine on the delicious Creole and seafood dishes in your villa or join the other guests in the charming Piazza overlooking the ocean – you may actually prefer the latter as chances are the only socialising you’ve done during the day is with one of the giant tortoises you’ve spotted on one of your walks.

ACCOMMODATION: 11 LUXURY VILLAS.
ACCESS: 15 MINUTES BY HELICOPTER FROM MAHÉ.
CHILDREN: WELCOME.
7 NIGHTS: FROM £11,365 P.P. IN THE HIGH & LOWSEASON (£1,410 P.P.P.N.).
MEAL PLAN: ALL-INCLUSIVE (EXCLUDING PREMIUM WINES & CHAMPAGNE).