Bird Island

Despite being only a 30 minute flight away from Mahé International Airport, Bird Island has a real 'castaway feeling'. With no TV or phones, an abundance of wildlife, just 30 staff and only 24 guests chalets, Bird Island is a peaceful escape. The simple guest chalets are built among Bird Island's coconut palms, and each room has a king size bed, a large shower room and a veranda with views of the idyllic setting. The turquoise Indian Ocean, the white beaches and the tropical greens of Bird Island complement each other, and the blues and whites of the chalets' interiors reflect the surrounding natural beauty.

Guests can enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail or afternoon tea with an ocean view in the comfy bar lounge. A variety of wholesome and nutritious dishes are served buffet-style daily, using freshly caught fish and produce grown on Bird Island's small organic farm.

The island's coral reef is perfect for snorkelling, and while kayaking guests can spot occasional turtles or octopus and enjoy the range of colourful fish swimming by. Bird Island has a conservation officer and guests are invited to join in with his turtle-monitoring work, where turtles are often seen laying eggs. Boat trips often offer sightings of a resident pod of dolphins, while those relaxing on the beach may spot the odd Aldabran tortoise wandering by.