Diving into the Seychelles

GETTING THERE

Emirates (emirates.com) flies from Mumbai to Mahé via Dubai.

STAY

Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas

This Bill Bensley– designed compound on Mahé has 30 thatchedroof villas dotted across 148 acres of jungle, and each has its own infinity pool.Doubles from `2,34,379; anantara.com

Carana Beach Hotel

Eight kilometres from the capital, Victoria, this beachside property offers 40 airy chalets. It is one of the best values in the Seychelles. Doubles from `44,939; caranabeach.com

Domaine de l’Orangeraie

The resort’s 63 villas are situated in lush, tropical gardens on the island of La Digue, with a stunning west-facing pool perfect for viewing the sunset. Doubles from `46,488; orangeraie.sc

Four Seasons Resort Seychelles

It’s located high on a Mahé hilltop, so rooms have endless views of the Indian Ocean. A private, powdery whitesand cove awaits below. Doubles from `1,20,869; fourseasons.com

Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island

A tiny coralline island with no cars, Desroches has its own airstrip and a low-key yet unerringly five-star environment. Doubles from `75,156; fourseasons.com

North Island

A private island favoured by celebrities, this 11-villa resort is known for a sense of pampered seclusion. Doubles from `1,82,079; north-island.com

BOOK

Cherri Briggs, an Africa specialist, and her team at Explore, Inc. can create a personalised itinerary, which might include diving and bone fishing—two activities for which the Seychelles is known— with expert local guides. Five-night trips from `11,62,209; exploreinc.com