North Island, Seychelles

This is a truly exclusive private island, with an emphasis on barefoot luxury that has enticed the likes of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge to spend their honeymoon here. There are just 11 secluded villas here, each featuring its own large plunge pool, private attendant and even beach buggy, with direct access to its own slice of postcard-perfect white sands.

All the villas are also delightfully secluded, set among the island’s verdure and built from local materials, which hide designer interiors. The all-inclusive dining is similarly inspired. There is a “no menu" concept on the island, whereby the chef will speak to all guests to ascertain their tastes and tailor meals according to the harvest. And, there’s a variety of locations on offer, from the candlelit piazza to the beach bar’s tapas snacks. Of course, private in-villa or beach dining are particular highlights.

The all-inclusive delights also extend to the drinks menu, featuring fine wines and champagnes as well as all your usual favourites. That’s alongside a full range of included activities. You’ll be welcomed with a complimentary spa treatment, while daily yoga classes set you up for a full menu of included excursions. There’s everything from sea kayaking and surfing to stand-up paddle boarding and sunset cruises, while below water, snorkelling and scuba dives showcase the Seychelles’ dramatic marine life. There are even guided walks and fishing trips.

Simply, your time on North Island is up to you. Whether that means beach volleyball, a pizza-making class or simply luxuriating in the spa or on your very own white-sands haven. Mornings can be spent spotting turtles among technicolour reefs and afternoons catching your very own tuna steak, chargrilled to perfection. The tiny library is even housed in a listed building. Then, before finishing with sunset cocktails and a picnic, keep your eyes out for the island’s resident tortoises.