You scroll endlessly through images of island getaways. Dream of far off destinations. But which of the many luxury global properties to choose? Where is the best use of your precious vacation days? For travelers with a private island paradise in mind, the search should go no further than the Four Seasons Seychelles Resort at Desroches Island. This off the grid location ticks plenty of boxes — plunge pools, spacious villas, sunny cabanas. Available only by private plane transfer, how many properties have you stayed at have their own airstrip?
The low number of rooms all but ensure a feeling of seclusion at the Four Seasons at Desroches Island. As the property only takes up a small part of the island, embrace your inner adventurer and explore island trails by bike. Bring along your bathing suit to go for a quick swim, or jog on one of the multiple private beaches, all stocked with towels, bottled water, and recreational swim gear. Given the remote location, this is a gorgeous place to disconnect for a few days.
The Four Seasons offers island luxury with a relaxed approach. All staff we interact with immediately greet us by name and provide friendly service throughout our stay. With golf carts ready as we step off the airstrip from our short flight from Mahé, we’re given a quick tour of the grounds, which include a spa, tennis courts, infinity pool, and a water sports recreation center. There’s even a tortoise sanctuary! We’re tempted one night to dine beachside at The Lighthouse (but not before stopping for stunning sundowners upstairs). We enjoy the remainder of our meals in our villa or at the internationally appealing Claudine (and maybe stopping for a scoop of ice cream at The Deli). While golf carts are always available to collect us, bikes (which come with every room) are the primary mode of transportation, and we’re happy to work off some of what we’ve indulged in while lingering over breakfast.
We’re shown to our Sunset Beach Villa and immediately wonder how we’ll go back to our actual residence. High ceilings (and thread counts), a bathroom that’s almost as large as the bedroom, soaking tub, indoor and outdoor showers — our villa even comes with a hammock and private beach access. We spy hermit crabs and other wildlife before going for a plunge in our private pool. Our villa also includes a second level — perfect for morning coffees or pre-dinner cocktails. Different categories offer similar layouts, but if returning, we wouldn’t hesitate to opt for the same stay again.
Pro traveler tip — add this unique destination at the start or end of your stay in the Seychelles to start out with a bang, or end on a high note. Also, try and seek out George, the oldest tortoise on the island, over one hundred years young!
Where’s your favorite island destination?
This post is by a contributor, Courtney Brandt
Courtney Brandt is an American author living in Dubai, where she has resided for the past decade. When she’s not reviewing fine dining venues around the world for her food and hospitality blog, A to Za’atar, she loves traveling to new countries and sabering champagne with kitchen knives. You might have seen her on the television show What’s Cooking, UAE, where she has started hosting episodes or heard her on Dubai Eye 103.8, where she is an active contributor.
