Just the name alone congers up thoughts of a desert island paradise. The sand is powder-white and the sea is turquoise blue. Swim with manta rays, whale sharks and beautifully bright coloured fish, straight from the beach. The pace of life in the Seychelles is slower than you’ll be used to but that’s exactly what you need for pure relaxation.
Resorts
Each of the islands in the Seychelles offers crystal clear waters, world-class snorkelling and 5-star resorts. Some are a little busier than others and some can become your very own island hideaway. No matter where you decide to stay in the Seychelles, you can embark on your own island hopping adventure, meaning you get to experience a little of each.
Inner Islands
Praslin is the second-largest island in the Seychelles but is much less populated than Mahe. It’s here you’ll find the famous coco de mer palms in the Valee de Mei national park. Many people only visit for a day but wish they’d stayed longer. With incredible views of the Indian Ocean, the Coco De Mer Hotel And Black Parrot Suites are nestled into the coastline, a stay here puts you in the heart of the island, engulfed by the ocean and the tropical palm forests.
Mahé
Mahé is the largest island. It’s home to the country’s capital, Victoria, so there is more of a buzz than some of the quieter islands. Mahe has something for everybody. Wondrous spas and secluded beaches for those days when you don’t want to do too much. Sea kayaking, and hiking to magnificent waterfalls on those days you’re feeling more adventurous. The Banyan Tree Resort is exquisite. The infinity pool will take your breath away and the service is world-class. If an award-winning spa isn’t enough, how about witnessing turtle hatching from the beach?
Outer Islands
The outer Islands are smaller and quieter, so if you’re looking for a private, desert island escape, take a look at Bird Island. As the name suggests, tropical birds inhabit this extraordinary place. As well as birds you will be sharing the island with Hawksbill and Green turtles and dolphins. Denis Private Island will make you feel like the only people alive. Beachfront bungalows and exquisite food, believe us when we say, you’ll never want to leave.
Excursions
The snorkelling and diving in the Seychelles attract visitors from around the world. The coral reefs are simply stunning. Manta rays and whale sharks chose to inhabit the crystal waters so for the unique experience to swim with these incredible creatures, the Seychelles is the perfect place.
Island hopping is a must. The Seychelles is made up of 115 dazzling islands, each a little different from the last. In comparison to some of the other islands in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles is a little more rustic, so seeing more than one gives you the real chance to explore this natural beauty.
Victoria, the capital is full of colourful markets, botanical gardens and Hindu temples. With its colonial architecture, if you want to experience the local way of life, Victoria is a must-see.
The Seychelles offers as much inland as it does off its shores. Hiking is popular, especially in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve where you’ll discover a natural palm forest.
Food and Drink
As with the other islands of the Indian Ocean, the local food in the Seychelles has an African, Chinese, French and Indian influence. The locals like it hot so expect the food to be packed full of chillies. Coconuts are plentiful so the milk is used in a lot of dishes. Of course, as with all the islands in the Indian Ocean, the fresh fish is delicious.
