North Island guarantees you a magical ‘Robinson Crusoe’ mood and memories. Long-uninhabited, this stunningly beautiful and private granite island (an hour by boat or 20 minutes by helicopter from Mahé) has now become home to an exclusive luxury Lodge. Edging a long ribbon of white sand, it offers its privileged guests a sense of true Zen ‘barefoot living’ with the bonus of superb snorkelling and diving. The island is also the protected habitat of such species as turtles, tortoises, birds, hardwoods, corals and reef fish.
The Lodge has just 11 Villas, individually designed with simple good taste to offer the ultimate in seclusion and escapism. Beautifully integrated into the natural granite boulders and rocks of the shoreline, and making use of local casuarina and takamaka wood, each boasts 450 sq m of living space and private garden. The air-conditioned master bedroom enjoys all-round vistas through large bay windows – with sea views from your bed! – while a separate air-conditioned study can also convert to a second bedroom. The living-area (half-open to the elements – but with protective blinds!) also enjoys wide views of the glorious setting, while a private freshwater rock pool, sala pavilion and large hand-crafted panoramic wooden deck all add further memorable touches. Especially impressive is the open-air bathroom area – with sunken bath and shower, as well as a second outdoor shower. Each villa enjoys private butler service.