If you take a trip to Cornwall then you might be looking for plenty of things. Things to do involving water are probably one as the county has some of the best coastline in England and some of the best beaches to go with it. You’ll probably want to take advantage of the natural beauty of the county as well, exploring various places to see all there is to be seen of this lush, green county, with its rolling hills and valleys, wonderful cliff walks and dramatic cliffs by the sea. You might even be interested in discovering a bit about the history of the place and how important it was for its tin mining back in Roman times.

Well, you’re in luck as Looe Isle has all of that. It’s situated just a mile off the coast from the Cornish town of Looe and is looked after by the Cornish Wildlife Trust. Those enjoying cottage holidays in the area can take a boat trip to the island knowing that the money they pay will go towards maintaining the island for future generations. If you visit at the right time you might also find that the incredibly low spring tide allows you to cross to the island on foot across the seabed, something that you won’t find many other opportunities to do.

Cornwall cottages offer many great opportunities for exploration of the county, and sites like Looe Island make for a superb day out where you can learn so much about the area you’re staying.

What could be better than a weekend away from home enjoying all the sights that Brighton has to offer? Not much. But what if you could also spend that weekend gambling, drinking in some of the best bars that Brighton has to offer and enjoying great food? Well, clearly that is better.

Staying in hotels in Sussex puts you within easy reach of Brighton and all the casinos that it has to offer. This means that they make for a perfect weekend getaway with a little bit of risk and chance involved. Once you have got to the city yourself you have a number of choices about where you go. Do some research beforehand and you’re sure to find somewhere that will cater to however much or little you want to spend, as well as somewhere with all the things you class as necessities, such as a late bar or live entertainment.

If, like me, you’re an experienced gambler (poker is my specialty. I play a mean hand) then you’ll be ready to dive straight in. However, if you’re there with a group of friends or aren’t sure of the games yourselves, plenty of places offer introductory offers to rope you in and teach you the games. You’ll soon be learning all about slots, craps and blackjack.

Then at the end of the evening you know you can retire with your winnings to your East Sussex hotel, safe in the knowledge that a good night’s sleep is waiting for you.

Luxury hotels in Seychelles range from private island retreats to serene spa environments and resorts with every entertainment just outside your sumptuous accommodation, so perhaps the idea of selecting just ten of the best is a bit foolish.  But, I love making lists – and this is one that I can make while vicariously experiencing the best that Seychelles luxury has to offer.  Rather than a straight list, I’ve broken it down into specific experiences…see if I’ve kept it at ten or gone just a bit overboard!

Private Island Retreats

The ultimate for exclusive luxury hotels in Seychelles must be those occupying their own splendid islands – places like Fregate or Cousine.  Fregate Island Private boasts seven white powder-soft beaches fringed by magnificent tropical forest, and just 16 luxury villas, with every whim catered to by a private butler.  If dinner in one of the two restaurants doesn’t suit, why not dine in the tree-house, in a banana grove, on the beach or perhaps in your own villa.

Want just that little bit more privacy?  You would be hard-pressed to match the splendid isolation of Cousine Island Resort, sited on a 25 hectare granitic island complete with nature reserve and just four luxury villas.

Of course, both these luxury hotels in Seychelles offer spa services alongside the exclusive environment.

Spa Luxury

Speaking of spas, it’s worth mentioning that the newest of luxury Seychelles hotels, the Four Seasons Resort and Spa on Mahé Island offers a world-class spa experience with spectacular views of Petite Anse beach and the resort, while offering solitude and seclusion.  Five individual spa pavilions and a yoga pavilion are available, and guests are transported via personal buggy to the spa for consultation and treatments.  Alternatively, if the snorkelling, tennis, hiking or culinary indulgences have left you spent, choose an in-villa treatment for a truly indulgent and revitalising experience.

Consideration of luxury hotels and spas in Seychelles wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the Banyan Tree Seychelles, also on Mahé Island.   Many think the Banyan Tree Seychelles is the finest of all – and with its’ 60 luxuriously furnished beach and hillside villas with private swimming pools and sundecks, spectacular views, sumptuous food and yes, a world-class spa, you would be hard-pressed to argue the point.

Romantic Luxury

Seychelles hotels epitomise romance – but when you are looking for the extra, almost indefinable sense of allure in a place, some stand out amongst the best.  Consider the isolated beauty and wonder of Desroches Island Resort.  Completely surrounded by white sand beaches, this coral island resort offers bicycling for two, private sunset cruises, sensuous spa treatments, and, for the more active, sensational diving and deep-sea fishing.  Holidays on Desroches Island Seychelles are on an All Inclusive basis and combined with luxurious suites and villas with private verandas and stunning views, you can feel romance in the air.

On a similar note, the Denis Private Island offers escapism, relaxation and tranquillity in an exclusive environment of just 25 individual spacious cottages, all with private verandas.  Denis Island Seychelles is also one of the most romantic hotels in Seychelles for a wedding, with its’ own lovely chapel.  Culinary delights will tempt you – including fresh produce from the islands’ own farm and gardens.  With full board the rule and the likelihood of indulging very high, you’ll appreciate the swimming pool and beach, the PADI Dive Centre, tennis courts and opportunities to explore this incredible coral island.

Family-Friendly Retreats

Since we’re not all carefree and childfree, it makes sense to include the best of the family friendly locations – but don’t be put off if you’re sans children – these deluxe resorts are  equally at home catering to couples too, and in typical Seychelles luxury fashion, there’s always a feel of privacy and solitude if that’s what you desire.

Labriz on mountainous Silhouette Island is just 19 miles from Mahé, with white sand beaches and huge granite boulders.  The resident naturalist at Labriz Silhouette can conduct tours that include encounters with native Giant Tortoises.  Luxurious villas await guests returning from snorkelling, diving, swimming and exploring followed by excellent dining at one of the islands’ five restaurants.

Moving on to the island of Praslin (the Seychelles second largest) is the excellent Constance Lemuria Resort sited alongside three stunning beaches and boasting Seychelles only 18 hole international golf course.  Praslin is one of just two islands that grow the famous Coco de Mer palms, and guests will find a wealth of complimentary water sports and enough nature to entrance adults and children alike.

Closer to the international arrival city of Victoria on Mahé Island, the five star Sainte Anne Resort and Spa is on private Sainte Anne Island, a ten-minute boat ride away.  With fabulous beaches and turquoise waters, it’s a quintessential Seychelles luxury destination offering villa accommodation and secluded gardens with excellent sea views.   Water and land sports abound, and easy excursions to Victoria ensure none of the family tire of stunning tropical gardens and a choice of five restaurants.

On Mahé Island itself, the new Constance Ephélia has already made a name for itself in terms of luxury, gorgeous beaches and a wealth of seaside and sporting options that will keep families and couples alike spoilt for choices of activities.

Tempted?

Now is the perfect time to plan your holiday, as most Seychelles hotels are offering excellent rates, including great air fares as well.  Specialist tour operators like Seychelles Elite (www.seychelleselite.co.uk) are reporting up to 15% discounts at some of their top luxury hotels in Seychelles, so why wait?  Book now and then you can glow in anticipation of your luxury trip to the Seychelles.