A Guide to The Seychelles Islands
Located off the coast of Africa, the Seychelles archipelago is a dazzling chain of more than 100 islands. The secluded beaches and natural beauty of this Indian Ocean paradise has attracted seafarers and adventurers for centuries. While some islands are small rocky outcrops, others are teeming with wildlife and adorned with wide swathes of palm tree-lined white sand and lush mountainous interiors. This oft-photographed setting creates an unforgettable backdrop for one of the world’s most romantic holiday and honeymoon destinations.
The Seychelles Islands also feature some high-energy distractions, such as snorkeling, scuba diving and hiking into the unspoiled backcountry. Beach bazaars and other special events like the Creole Festival and SUBIOS Underwater Festival introduce couples to the island’s eclectic music and cuisine. The lively sound of polka, percussion instruments and folk music ride the tropical trade winds along with the tantalizing aroma of curry dishes and fragrant tropical fruits.
With so much to offer, a trip to the Seychelles Islands should include a visit to more than one island. The Vallee de Mai is a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated in the heart of the Praslin National Park. Untouched since the 1930s, the near-primeval palm forest is the habitat of the rare black parrot and boasts the coco de mer, which is the largest seed in the world. Praslin Island is also home to Anse Lazio beach whose sheltered atmosphere consistently ranks as one of the top destinations of its kind in the world. Curieuse Island, the setting for a museum and historic site, is well known for the national marine reserve that is home to the giant Seychellois tortoise. Rustling palms and giant granite boulders are iconic landmarks at Anse Source d’Argent lagoon. This pristine strip of sand on the island of La Digue is the most famous beach in the Seychelles. Cousin Island is a prime birding area that serves as a nesting habitat for numerous migrating and indigenous species, including striated herons and the Seychelles blue pigeons and magpies.
Evoking images of a charming watercolor painting, the scenery of Mahé includes azure waters and scenic bays as well as the verdant slopes of Morne Seychellois, the chain’s highest peak. Couples can explore the mountainous jungle and dive or snorkel in pristine sites offshore amidst bottlenose dolphins, whale sharks and other aquatic animals. The largest island, Mahé is the location for the city of Victoria, the national capital as well as the popular Beau Vallon Beach. Victoria is filled with colonial buildings, shops and restaurants with menus featuring the island’s Creole-inspired cuisine like the unique Seybrew beer and grilled octopus, a national favorite. Historic buildings include the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and the Clock Tower, a focal point in the city. The century-old Seychelles National Botanical Gardens houses a colorful and aromatic display of palm, spice and fruit trees. You can experience the delightful fragrance of vanilla and cinnamon in the Le Jardin du Roi Spice Garden. While Beau Vallon offers the best swimming, surfers are drawn to the swells and breaks of Anse Intendance.
Whether your dream is to relax in the sun, explore a different culture or embark on an eco-tour showcasing rare species, your adventure await in the Seychelles. These idyllic islands boast stunning beaches, brilliant azure seas and verdant nature reserves as well as fine restaurants and luxury accommodations to make your stay more enjoyable. Experience adrenaline-pumping water sports, explore the remote outer islands or just lay back and enjoy the nocturnal sounds under a blanket of stars without the distraction of modern lights and noise. With its countless secluded coves adorned with sea-sculpted granite boulders that make it a favored setting for magazine photo shoots, the Seychelles is an amazing destination for a romantic getaway.
