So, let’s start with a question you are unlikely to hear every day. What do Einstein’s Theory of General Relativity, chocolate and dragons have in common? 10 bonus points and a gold star to anyone who said the tiny island of Príncipe.

Rising gently from the balmy waters of the Gulf of Guinea, off the coast of West Africa, Príncipe really should be on your bucket list. If your bucket list includes cerulean seas, towering tropical landscapes, abundant wildlife, a laidback pace of life, a slice of luxury and a pinch of history!

Rising gently from the balmy waters of the Gulf of Guinea, off the coast of West Africa, Príncipe really should be on your bucket list. If your bucket list includes cerulean seas, towering tropical landscapes, abundant wildlife, a laidback pace of life, a slice of luxury and a pinch of history!

Like many truly remarkable destinations getting there is not as simple as jumping on a plane at your local airport. Probably the most reliable way is on the Portuguese national carrier TAP with several flights a week from Lisbon non-stop (or on certain days with an hour-long layover in Accra) to Príncipe’s big sister island of São Tomé. The late afternoon arrival of the flight means you will need to spend the night in São Tomé before the final leg of your journey. We highly recommend the charming Omali resort, in fact why not stay a couple of days and explore the, relatively, bustling island of São Tomé.

09h00 each morning (except Tuesdays) the little SAAB 340 turboprop heads north across the sparkling ocean to Príncipe, which rises out of the ocean, covered as far as the eye can see in verdant jungle. Now let the adventure begin.

It was here on this diminutive island of just 53sq miles that on the 29^th May 1919 Einstein’s Theory of General Relativity was first proven. OK but what about the chocolate? Well, despite its Lilliputian proportions, the island of Príncipe was once the world’s largest exporter of cacao. At the centre of it all is the Roça Sundy estate. The estate grounds didn’t only host the man to first prove Einstein right, but were also the largest cacao producers on the island.

The estate has now been lovingly restored to something beyond its former glory. 15 rooms split between Eclipse House and Cacao House offer a gentle haven, blending traditional island and Portuguese colonial style. Why not take advantage of the hotel’s unique “tree-t-table” experience and immerse yourself in the cacao plant from the beginning to the extremely tasty end.

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the ruins of the “lost city” of Ribiera Izé, Príncipe’s first settlement. For something slightly livelier visit the quaint capital of Santo António, according the Guinness Book of Records, the smallest capital city in the world! It is here that you will get to mix with the incredibly friendly people who call the island home and maybe just learn to take life at a slightly slower pace!

If all this exploring has left you needing some serious R&R it’s just a short forest walk to the beach, or maybe even decamp to spoil yourself in the utterly gorgeous Sundy Praia resort. Each of the wood-panelled, canvas topped villas is designed with a nod to the traditional fisherman’s huts which once stood on the very spot. However, it is a mere nod, as these villas offer sheer luxury to the lucky few who get to stay.

Set amongst towering trees alive with birdsong and views beyond to the warm waters teaming with life Sundy Praia is the perfect place for some serious relaxation. Likely the biggest decision you will face is whether to swim in the pool or in the ocean.

If the ocean is your choice it is just a few steps away. If you want a change of scenery the hotel includes various excursions for you to choose from each day. Maybe explore the white sands and hypnotising waters of the Northern Beaches of Praia Banana and Praia Boi. For a truly, unique to Príncipe experience head out with your guide to the Bay of Needles where you can swim and snorkel with an awe-inspiring backdrop.

What more could you ask for? Tropical island, warm seas, sandy beaches, lush forests, lost cities, friendly people and don’t forget Einstein’s vindication and of course chocolate! Oh, you also want to know about the dragons? Well that’s simple, everything is brought together in harmony at the wonderful properties owned by HBD Príncipe, or to use their full name Here Be Dragons (and once you see the island, you will believe there really might just be dragons it is that magical!)