Barefoot at Havelock

Get away from it all at this hideaway resort on the "best beach in Asia" in the unexplored Andaman Islands

The Andaman Islands are India’s secret paradise: stunning beaches, pristine coral reefs, Tolkienesque forests, active volcanoes, swimming elephants, elusive dugongs and big, big fish all in one location. And this pared-down eco-hideaway, tucked behind 2km of untrodden white sands and 100-foot high mahua trees, is the place to see them.

Its 18 beautifully designed cottages are hidden among 7 acres of grounds, their hardwood walls and conical thatch roofs blending into the tropical foliage. You get basic comforts (modern plumbing, and air conditioning or ceiling fans), a restaurant/bar and an exhilarating closeness to nature. The Barefoot philosophy means a minimal environmental footprint, so only indigenous materials are used, rainwater is harvested and most staff are local. Venture out and you can kayak through mangrove creeks, snorkel or dive the reefs, and camp on a deserted island; stay in and there's yoga, birdwatching, hammocks and a blissful beach. Barefoot at Havelock is perfect if you're looking for an unpretentious hideaway on one of the world’s last undeveloped tropical islands.

Highs

• The Andaman Islands are one of the few tropical island groups to remain undiscoverd by the masses
• The quirkily named Beach No. 7 - pristine, sandy and "the best beach in Asia" according to Time magazine - is ideal for sun worshippers
• This is an ideal spot to relax, meditate and commune with nature
• And it's a great base from which to hike, fish, kayak and sail to satellite isles
• The staff are very friendly
• Some of the best diving in the world is right on your doorstep
• The stunning Nicobari Villa is a truly rustic-chic hideaway for 2
• This place has excellent ecological credentials

Lows

• It's a bit of a hassle to get to, but that's why the islands are so blissfully quiet
• There are sandflies at dusk on the beach (all the islands have them)
• It feels very cut off from the rest of the world: most rooms have no television, internet or telephone - bliss for some!
• The nocturnal forest sounds can be irritating if you're a light sleeper
• This is the tropics, so expect the occasional shower even in the dry season
• Ask what activities are available: you're not always pro-actively offered them
• The food isn't great - we recommend sticking to Indian dishes