Seychelles is a nation of 115 islands, scattered like gems across 400,000 square-kilometres of Indian Ocean. While only 12 of these islands are inhabited by humans, the other 103 are home to unspoilt beaches, coral outcrops and a thrilling variety of plants and animals. No wonder the country’s beauty had early European visitors believing it to be the “Garden of Eden”.
The Seychelles islands has become renowned for its luxury hotels – playgrounds of the rich and famous, but increasingly accessible to the rest of us. They are the ultimate relaxation retreats, each offering their own perks, pampering and pleasures; a favourite for honeymooners and those seeking a true paradise getaway.
Because each island offers such diversity, many travellers choose to visit more than one in the course of their stay. Inter-island flights are efficient (albeit often expensive), or hop onto one of the ferries travelling between the islands. The most commonly visited islands are Mahé and Praslin, but La Digue – a small, car-less island – is not to be missed.
Mahé is the largest island of the Seychelles and is home to the world’s smallest capital city, Victoria. Hike up Morne Blanc, the country’s highest peak – you’ll cut through mangrove forest and end up at an observation deck with unbeatable views. Here you’ll find the cultural heart of the Seychelles – a mix of its many settlers over the years: Islamic mariners, French settlers, British colonials, Tamil and Chinese traders, and African slaves. Locals speak Seychellois Creole, French and English.
The country’s second largest island is Praslin – a 15-minute flight from Mahé. Most come to see the Unesco World Heritage Site at Vallée de Mai, home to the distinctive coco de mer palm (shaped like a lady’s derriere) and primeval forest. Here, giant Aldabra tortoises still freely roam. The archipelago’s marine biodiversity and crystal-clear waters are the perfect recipe for underwater discovery. For snorkelling and diving, head to Sainte Anne Marine National Park (a short ferry ride from Mahé Island) – it’s one of the Indian Ocean’s best dive sites. The reef’s residents include hammerhead sharks, dolphins, hawksbill turtles, octopus and humphead parrotfish. Meanwhile, Port Launay Marine National Park is the place to head for whale shark sightings.
Beach Bums; Couples/Honeymooners; Luxury Travellers; Nature Lovers
