Seychelles islands – a small travel guide
September 28, 2021 The story we tell you now, seems to be taken from a fairytale book. A slice of heaven that defines the beauty of Earth and the joy of living meaningful holidays. The good part about all this enchanting story is that you’re just one flight away from, perhaps, the most fascinating location for a vacation. Welcome to the Seychelles Islands!
Seychelles Islands – history and culture
The fact that Will and Kate celebrated their honeymoon in the Seychelles is no longer a secret. Moreover, from the moment you set foot in these islands you are greeted by fine sand beaches and waters that can be blue, green or anything in between. However, what fascinates us most about the Seychelles is their uniqueness that hides behind an overwhelming diversity. Travel with an open heart and a relaxed mind because these islands are, in themselves, a fascinating universe.
Seychelles history begins only in the sixteenth century when they were discovered by the Europeans. Until then, the islands were wild, populated by crocodiles, giant turtles, undiscovered birds, and unidentified trees. Up until their independence in 1976, the islands were under British and French rule which significantly marked the local culture. However, the official languages are English and French along with Creole spoken at home. This intercultural mix is no longer a novelty for the Indian Ocean islands such as Mauritius, Maldives, or Seychelles. During the European expeditions, the ships used to make a stopover on these islands to restock their supplies and trade. Thus, each ship left something behind. Starting with the languages and rules of conduct and ending with the small rodents that contributed to the partial or total disappearance of the local flora and fauna.
The territory includes over 99% water and less than 1% land consisting of 115 islands. Three of them are the most famous among tourists: Mahé, Praslin and La Digue. We encourage you to visit all three of them because each one has its own uniqueness and offers new experiences not to be missed.
Mahé – the most popular island of Seychelles
Mahé, the main island that hosts the little capital called Victoria, can be crossed from one end to the other in just three hours by car. If you want to visit the 20 beaches, the main attractions, a rum distillery and try some local restaurants, then we recommend you spend three to four days here. If you can tear yourself away from their stunning beaches, then a foray into the middle of nature awaits you.
Prepare your hiking boots and a bottle of water because this island offers landscapes of a remarkable beauty. More than 20% of its territory is designated as national parks including Morne Seychellois National Park where you could venture into the highest local peak at an altitude of roughly 1000 meters. Take your swimsuit with you as well because there are beaches like Anse Major where the access is only possible through hiking.
Other sightseeing places to consider are the botanical garden in Victoria, Le Jardin du Roi Spice Garden in Anse Royale, the rum distillery, the tea factory or the Sauzier waterfall in Port Glaud. Certainly, the beaches are all splendid, so it is up to you to discover them and live it up. We recommend that you end the day by contemplating the sunset on the Sunset Beach. What a greater joy than being in the right place at the right time, right?
Mahé island – where to stay
As you could guess, every recommended vacation is accompanied by an accommodation that stands out for its comfort, quality services and exclusive location. Constance Ephelia Mahe 5 * is a luxury resort, bordered by beaches and mangrove forests located on the west coast of the Mahé island. We invite you to check out our offers and contact us for more details.
Praslin – the island with the most spectacular national park
If Mahé island has already aroused your curiosity, get prepared for a new location that we are excited about. Praslin Island.
Welcome to the territory of the black parrot, endemic to these places, of huge coconuts known as Coco de Mer – which looks like women butt – of national parks and beaches with fine sand and shining waters.
Not to be missed are also: the beaches of Anse Lazio, Anse Georgette and Grand Anse which are bordered by tropical forests and granite boulders, and Valee de Mai National Park. Moreover, from here you can organize trips to other smaller islands such as La Digue or Curieuse. Water activities are a real delight here. Whether we are talking about a boat tour or snorkeling and diving activities, you do not have time to get bored.
Praslin island – where to stay
If at the end of a busy day all you wish for is to relax by the pool, with a glass of wine, or spend time on the terrace of your hotel room, then we have you covered with the best offer for Constance Lemuria Praslin 5 *. This resort meets the highest standards for your vacation to be exquisite and impeccable.
La Digue – the island with the most photographed beach in the world
The third most populated island is La Digue. Relatively small, relaxing, cars-free and with one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It deserves all your attention at least for a day trip.
Doubtlessly, Anse Source d’Argent beach is the star of the island and the most popular strech of shoreline. Its white sand is covered by emerald-colored waters and supported by huge granite boulders that create a real labyrinth perfect for exploring this place. This beach has been fairly called the embodiment of perfection. Its uniqueness is given by the grandeur of the granite boulders that seem to watch over this place, but also by the reef-sheltered waters, by the marine life and its west-facing profile, ideal for captivating sunsets.
We also recommend you to visit the giant Aldabra turtles and the natural island reserve. Only here you can admire the Paradise Flychatcher, a bird that can be easily spotted due to its tail length that reaches up to 30 cm for males. Based on our own experience, we advise you to take a pair of binoculars to accentuate your adventure through the national parks.
La Digue – where to stay
Le Domaine de L’Orangeraie Resort & Spa 5* is an excellent choice for travelers visiting La Digue Island, offering a romantic environment alongside many helpful amenities designed to enhance your stay.
If you are looking for a relaxing break in a romantic setting, then this welcoming resort is ideal. The resort is set amid lush vegetation, but just a short walk away from a beautiful white sand beach. Moreover, the offshore coral reef offers superb snorkeling location. The stunning infinity pool overlooks the bay, and the elegant terrace is the perfect place to admire the sunset over the ocean and the mountains.
Many articles and books can be written about the Seychelles. They have always charmed people with their pristine beauty, but the most valuable experience is your personal one. We have been there a couple of blue moons ago and we plan to return one day. If this destination is on your travel list, write us and we would be happy to organize your surreal holiday.
Raluca Masud
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