Thirty minutes’ flight from Mahé, Denis is one of the Seychelles’ few privately owned coral islands open to overseas visitors. Its exotic atmosphere and scenery blend in what is an unspoilt paradise for escapists, divers, nature-lovers and romantics. Dense with palms, takamaka and casuarina trees, the island is ringed by soft sandy beaches of sparkling white sand and the bluest and clearest of seas offering excellent watersports and unrivalled swimming. The one-time plantation has now become a lush carpet of greenery bisected by meandering paths that invite exploration, while the eastern shore is edged by a glorious shallow lagoon of kaleidoscopic hues offering endless fascinating underwater discoveries amid a world of utter peace and serenity. Lying close to a picture-book beach are Denis Island Lodge’s elegant, well-appointed cottages (some with air- conditioning) and two larger individual villas each with separate lounge. All feature a ceiling fan, private bath (and double shower) and a wide veranda, as well as a private courtyard garden with an outside shower. Other room amenities include refrigerator, tea/coffee-making facilities and hairdryer. The Lodge’s unique style blends a relaxed charm with service and comfort of an exceptionally high quality, while a cosmopolitan cuisine and delicious Creole specialities will add to the many pleasures of your stay here in an Indian Ocean hideaway whose spell few visitors ever forget.