Le Domaine de L'Orangeraie

A labyrinth of stone and wooden walkways suspended over decorative pools lead you around the main lounge and dining area. In fact, water dominates the atmosphere here – you overlook it while dining or sipping cocktails at the bar, and gaze at it from your verandas. The hotel's been designed to make the most of its natural surroundings, so everything is easy on the eye. Settle back on a beach sunlounger and toast Praslin Island and the golden sunset.

The hotel's 63 spacious villas ramble up the hillside, secluded by jungle foliage. Hardwood floors, lovely furnishings, thatch roofs, cobblestone walls and light linens merge to create calm, Zen-like interiors. The villas range in luxury from the Garden Villa Suites to the hillside Villas de Charme, the garden Villas de Charme Élégance and the very grand Presidential Villa, with its private pool, Jacuzzi and dedicated butler service. Find reading material in the library, and a blue-chip boutique and curio shop.

La Digue island is known for its laid-back atmosphere, but don't let that fool you – there's plenty to do. Cycle the island’s nature trails, or head inland to visit the local art galleries. Cool off in the little coves and beaches, or go pro and join the diving school for a day exploring the reefs. If there's time, take an inter-island cruise.