'Tring, tring,' sounds my bicycle bell to gently encourage a slowly sauntering Shearwater bird to make way. I’m zipping across verdant plains and coconut-strewn, sandy paths on my personalised Four Seasons bike — replete with my ‘MC’ initials — in search of the island’s oldest residents, giant Aldabra Tortoises. A recent deluge of rain sees my journey to the Tortoise Sanctuary go uninterrupted as the winding paths are free from locals and my fellow guests who are sheltering (wisely) from another potential downpour, and it feels like I have the entire place to myself.
Lost among the endless cerulean waters of the Indian Ocean, I find myself on the idyllic, coral isle of Desroches Island. A 35-minute plane hop from the Seychelles’ largest island of Mahé, the emphasis here is all about disconnecting from modern life and reconnecting with nature, which is great news for me, since I’m looking for an excuse to give the laptop a few days’ R&R.
Even better news for me is that the six-kilometre slice of paradise is also home to the 71 guest rooms and suites of Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island, including my own Sunset Beach Suite, where I find myself castaway for the next three days.
Inside, Creole design meets French colonial and European influences to craft a gorgeous hideaway. Sliding doors offer an open-plan feel, creating one long pathway throughout the 267 square metres of pure luxury.
Soft woods dominate the ceiling and floors of the island-chic living room. To the right, a small dining room sits under wicker basket lamp shades; to the left, a giant sofa faces an enormous TV screen that proves its worth whenever the inclement weather rolls over the island. The coffee table is a treasure trove of welcome amenities including three coconuts and a wooden mallet that invites me to crack open the fruit and drink its milk – I duly oblige.
The bedroom is the next port of call. Crisp, white linens adorn the bed alongside a leafed ‘WELCOME’ message, with a descending, white canopy revealed in the evenings for when I decide to call it a day. Bestowed with floor-to-ceiling windows, the bedroom allows you to wake up every morning to the sight of a lush garden, full of tropical vegetation and those oh-so-dreamy ocean views. There is a study beyond this where another comfy sofa resides alongside a work desk, replete with postcards full of interesting facts about the island.
Behind the bedroom, the bathroom stretches the length of the entire villa. There are double vanity sinks, a deep free-standing tub and a rainfall shower.
There is also the opportunity to shower al fresco, should you wish to enjoy the delicate breeze that drifts in from the ocean
Outside, the hardwood deck hosts a dining table with four chairs and two very low-slung Ottoman chairs on which to relax with a book and cold beverage. However, my preferred option is to place myself at the mega-sized cabana attached to the infinity pool, where I enjoy refreshing dips underneath the Seychellois sun, whenever it decides to appear. Moments from here, powdery-white sands and gentle blue waves of the beach await, with my own personal hammock, swaying from two palm trees, enticing me into a midday nap.
One could be forgiven for wanting to stay in their suite for the entire length of the stay, but the resort’s plethora of activities beckons me to explore. There’s a kayak tour that sees you paddle through ultra-clear waters and vibrant reefs, surfing lessons with Tropicsurf as well as a nature e-bike tour with the island biologist, that sees you seek out some of the best beaches and jungle trails for those all-important Insta-pics. Unfortunately, the unpredictable weather has resulted in a change of plans, so I opt for the best of what terra firma has to showcase: a solo cycling trip around the island, rounded off with an Exotic Island Signature Massage at The Circle of Connection Spa.
For gourmands, there’s plenty to tease the taste buds. Ahi dishes out exquisite Japanese fare, while the all-day dining restaurant, Claudine, serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner alongside incredible ocean vistas. On the first evening I take my place for its Spice of India theme night, where I indulge a phenomenal spread of flavourful dishes from the subcontinent.
Cocktails and beverages are to be savoured at The Bar and a reservation with The Lighthouse restaurant is highly recommended. Soaking in the epic 360-degree views of the island and ocean on my second evening, I sip on a sunset cocktail around a mesmerising firepit before heading down for some beachside dining.
It’s king crab tartlet and Tajima wagyu tenderloin served with the chunkiest of pomme frites for me; a decadent meal accompanied by the soothing soundtrack of gentle waves.
As far as island escapes go, Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island is definitely world class. Presenting an opportunity to switch off from the modern world, the resort is sure to immerse you in stress-free vibes, ensuring that you are fully rested upon check-out.
As for me, having pedalled across the island to the Tortoise Sanctuary, I’m off to spend some time with the island’s legendary residents.
