Le Domaine de L’Orangeraie La Digue

Le Domaine de L'Orangeraie is a resort and spa on La Digue, the smallest of the three main inhabited granite islands and the one with the slowest pace. Cars are scarce, bicycles are the norm and the island's beaches, led by Anse Source d'Argent, are among the most photographed in the world. This is an upscale-leaning, romantic base, a good fit for couples and honeymooners who want to spend several nights on La Digue rather than rushing through on a day trip. It also suits visitors who want to cycle to the beaches in the cool of the morning and return to a spa and pool in the afternoon.

Location and getting around: La Digue is reached by a short ferry crossing from Praslin, with onward connections from Mahe, and the jetty at La Passe is the hub for bikes, restaurants and shops. Bicycles are the main way to get around, and most hotels can rent them or arrange them for you. Anse Source d'Argent and L'Union Estate are an easy ride, and other beaches such as Grand Anse and Petite Anse are reachable on foot or by bike. Check the Expedia page for the property's position relative to La Passe before you book.

Rooms and facilities: expect a resort and spa setting with comfortable rooms or villas, a pool, dining on site and spa treatments, with the island atmosphere as the main attraction. Because details of room types and facilities change, check the Expedia page for the current offering. Many guests choose it for honeymoons and anniversaries.

Good to know: the beaches get busy with day trippers from late morning, so a stay on La Digue lets you ride out early or late and enjoy emptier sand. Ferries can be cancelled in rough weather, so allow a buffer day before an international flight from Mahe. Rates are upscale for the island and rise at Christmas and in school holidays. It is less suited to guests who need nightlife or a large range of dining, or to anyone with limited mobility, because the island's lanes are unpaved in places.