Travel guide: Seychelles

A tropical island paradise fit for royalty

Ten days after their glittering, star-studded Royal Wedding - on 9th May 2011 - Prince William and Kate Middleton finally jetted off on honeymoon, choosing the idyllic Seychelles as the location for their first break as a married couple. A spokesman for the island confirmed the royal couple had touched down after flying in on a private jet, but declined to comment on exactly which island the couple were staying - simply revealing their destination was the perfect place for the newlyweds to enjoy some serious R&R. 

Seychelles

SEE WILLIAM AND KATE'S ROYAL WEDDING PHOTO ALBUM HERE!

Seychelles

SEE WILLIAM AND KATE'S ROYAL WEDDING PHOTO ALBUM HERE!

Seychelles

The beautiful Seychelles are made up of more than 115 idyllic islands, found between the Tropic of Capricorn and the Equator in the Indian Ocean. May is the driest time of year - perfect for William and Kate's visit - with temperatures between 24 and 32C.

Seychelles

The sprawling Seychelles islands are a favourite with A-listers and royalty alike, due to their secluded nature, reliable sunshine and absolute privacy. And with endless white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, could there be a more perfect holiday destination?

Seychelles

With an 115-island archipelago, there are an amazing array of idylls to choose from - from the ultra-exclusive Fregate, to Desroches, Cousine, Mahé, Praslin and La Digue. All are home to dreamy white beaches, impossibly blue waters and lush green scenery.

Seychelles

Rumour has it, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge could visit Fregate Island Private - a 20-minute flight from largest island Mahé - during their honeymoon. Just one mile in length and less than a mile wide, the luxurious island boasts seven beaches and  17 traditional-style villas crafted from natural island materials - including mahogany and thatch - as well as private plunge-pools and king-size day beds. James Bond charmer Pierce Brosnan is rumoured to be a fan of this most exclusive island hideaway, and has holidayed there several times in the past.

SEE WILLIAM AND KATE'S ROYAL WEDDING PHOTO ALBUM HERE!

Seychelles

Desroches is another hot contender for William and Kate's honeymoon destination. The pair jetted to the private island after reuniting in 2007 - and reportedly agreed to marry here - with William telling friends it was the best holiday 'of his life.' The main island of the Amirantes, Desroches is surrounded by 14km of sand and 70km of lush coral reef, and houses 23 gorgeous beach villas. Guests can enjoy a personal chef and butler and show-stopping views from their own private terrace.

Seychelles

Wonderfully scenic, but eye-wateringly expensive - at £14,000 per person for a one-week stay - the private North Island is one of the Seychelles' most exclusive. Despite the hefty price tag, the destination has proven popular with a whole host of privacy-craving A-listers, as there are just 11 guest villas, dotted around the island. Accommodation on the eco-friendly resort -  which supports the reintroduction of endangered flora and fauna - features a split level lounge, spa, library and home entertainment system. Phew!

Seychelles

The Seychelles' main island, Mahé hosts the capital, Victoria. The North is home to an eye-catching assortment of lush tropical gardens, which boast rare and beautiful plants including the Jellyfish tree and vanilla orchids - perfect for nature enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the less populated South, lined by beautiful white beaches - is tried and tested honeymoon destination. The luxury hotels boasts 30 beautiful villas, infinity pools and absolute privacy. Bliss.

Click on for more stunning Seychelles scenery...

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SEE WILLIAM AND KATE'S ROYAL WEDDING PHOTO ALBUM HERE!