Lemuria Resort of Praslin by Caroline Major

Lemuria chose a lush piece of land for their golf resort, verdant tropical vegetation, powdery white sands, curvaceous boulders and an ocean in shades of turquoise and indigo. They have a diverse population of melodious birds, fragrant frangipanis and a consistent equatorial climate making it the basis of some fine family friendly bare-foot.

The 18 hole Marc Ferre golf course makes for inspiring playing. Manicured and polished to a paradise perfection I couldn’t help feeling I was riding a Disney attraction - steep hills and deep valleys, vistas alternating tropical jungle and stunning sea-views At tee fifteen the view of Lemurias’ third beach at Anse Georgette is stunning – its classified as a national park. Walk, take a shuttle or sea kayak from Petite Anse outside the boathouse. The sands are whiter than white, the boulders extruded from the depths of the earth and polished smooth by the Indian Ocean, itself transitioning from clear turquoise at shore to indigo on the depths of the horizon. ‘See your toes’ water clarity reflects the purity of the sea-bed below. Organise a picnic delivery here for a lazy lunch.

Back at the resort entry level suites are stark with few features to encourage lounging at home. The feng shui here is all wrong, and the rooms are not relaxing. Spring for a pool villa instead and it’s a very different story. Designed for living outside and sleeping inside, Pool Villas are laid out around a huge deck. A sunken terrace in the middle of the big U shaped infinity pool makes a great setting for dinners prepared in room by the butler; starlit with the sound of the waves lapping onto the Grand Anse. Each villa will sleep four and is fine for a family or two couples with plenty of space for privacy.

During the day, golf, tennis, sailing, biking, sea kayaking, spa treatments, fishing and diving trips should keep you busy for a week but you will tire of the restaurants. Food tends to be overcooked and a confused fusion. The best food comes from the main restaurant Legends, but you can’t beat the view from the Creole spot at the beach. You’d do well to fill up at the breakfast buffet where you’ll get the best crossiants in The Seychelles served with home-made tropical jams. Hire a car for day excursions around Praslin, but more importantly to broaden your horizons – see some of Praslin outside the cosy enclave and try some of the other restaurant options on the island.