Unspoilt Seychelles: A Travel Guide

Just a few degrees south of the equator, the 115 granite islands of the Seychelles are a luxurious sanctuary. Lined with sugar-white sands and with mystical granite peaks rising from the ocean, Mahé is the largest of the islands, come here to picnic at picturesque coves and swim in azure lagoons.

Some of the world’s most endangered species reside in the forest interior, including the Gardiner’s Seychelles frog, tinier than a human fingertip. Anse à la Mouche and Turtle Bay boast fine white sands and crystal clear waters, while Sunset Beach is named for its delivery of the most outstanding sunsets.

A short hop from Mahé by plane, or less than 60 minutes by boat, you’ll fall upon some of the whitest beaches in the world on the exotic island of Praslin. Framed by granite boulders and takamaka trees, the talcum powder sands of Anse Lazio are some of the most stunning on the island, and cobalt waters invite you to swim and snorkel all day.

Praslin is one of only two islands in the world where the rare Coco de Mer grows, deep in the Vallée de Mai’s prehistoric forests, and a guided walk into the jungle is definitely worth the effort.

Island-hopping

One of the joys of visiting the Seychelles is discovering the diverse geography, character and history of each island. Island hopping is a great way to do this and we recommend taking in Cousin Island, a beautiful nature reserve and home to some of the Seychelles’ rarest birds, and Praslin’s Vallée de Mai, known as a real-life Garden of Eden.

For nature, head North West of Mahé to Silhouette Island, where a melting pot of endangered birds and animals find solace in the magnificent Marine National Park.

La Digue

Easily accessible from Mahé or Praslin, this quintessential island paradise is best explored by bicycle, the mode of transport favoured by many locals. Enjoy a tour of the fascinating old vanilla and cinnamon plantation at L’Union Estate, meet its giant tortoise residents and then head to Anse Source d’Argent, considered one of the best beaches in the world.

Snorkelling and Diving

The Seychelles boasts some of the world’s most fascinating marine life, from eagle rays to lion fish and hawksbill turtles to whale sharks. There are dive sites perfect for all levels, so you can explore the underwater world, bejewelled with coral reef, to your heart’s content.