When advertisers and filmmakers need to find a perfect beach, they head for Seychelles.

More than a hundred islands are scattered across the tropical Indian Ocean, a thousand miles from anywhere, and form a lush wilderness of pristine palm-fringed beaches and unspoiled coral reefs. When you’re in search of a holiday with a feeling of isolation in an unspoilt paradise, this is the ultimate choice. More than half the land-mass is protected or in national parks, and the scuba diving and snorkelling is world class.

The hotels are generally small and sensitive to their surroundings with the main emphasis being on relaxation, informality and simplicity. Ideal for a romantic getaway, the Seychelles can be appreciated in a long relaxing holiday at a single resort, or explore further island-hopping by plane or yacht.