Bom Bom Island Resort

An attractive wooden walkway hovers over the sea, connecting the two sides of Bom Bom - the restaurant and bar on the islet, with the pool and bungalows on the mainland. Traversing the bridge is an experience in itself and part of the unhurried culture of island-time. The pool is surrounded by trimmed green grass and sun-loungers, but within arms reach of a dense forest of tropical flowers and fruits. The restaurant stands on stilts with a wrap-around deck; inside, it blends contemporary style with island history, and the wood-panel walls and square frame windows ensure the gorgeous surroundings are never far away.

There are 19 bungalows arranged in four different settings: beach-side, pool-side, in the garden and on the islet. Built with dark wood and stone walls, each camouflages neatly into its own lush habitat. At the front of each is a broad wooden porch with chairs. Natural light floods inside each identical cottage and bright white linens and draped mosquito netting gives them a crisp-clean feel. All are fitted with ensuite bathrooms with hot showers, and a host of modern conveniences that seem somehow improbable here: TV, air-con, fridges and internet.

While you could be excused for idling away your island holiday by the pool, the wealth of activities on Principe (a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve) are far too tempting. Start by exploring the long stretch of beach and winding paths surrounding the resort - look out for birds and wild fruits and orchids on the way. Take a boat trip to investigate other scarcely accessed corners of the island or if you're keen on sport fishing, blue marlin and barracuda are just a few species to tackle. You may also accompany a researcher as they monitor female sea turtles whilst 4x4 adventures traverse the dusty backroads, taking in various view-points where the incredible volcanic geography full of primary rainforest, towering massifs and exceptional biodiversity can be admired.