Scattered across the Indian Ocean north-east of Madagascar, Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 granite and coral islands known for its clear turquoise waters, dense tropical forests and striking granite boulders. The atmosphere is relaxed and intimate, balancing barefoot luxury with a strong sense of nature and island life. Visitors can snorkel vibrant coral reefs, sail between islands, explore the lush trails of Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve or encounter giant Aldabra tortoises and nesting sea turtles in protected habitats. Creole culture, fresh seafood and colourful markets add to the islands’ appeal, while quiet beaches shaded by takamaka trees offer a slower pace best suited to travellers seeking scenery, seclusion and time outdoors.
Beau Vallon is a lively coastal resort area on the north-west coast of Mahé, known for its broad sweep of soft white sand and calm, turquoise waters. As one of Seychelles' most popular beaches, it combines a relaxed island atmosphere with a good selection of restaurants, cafés, accommodation, and water sports. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkelling, paddleboarding, diving, and sunset cruises, while the nearby coral reefs support an abundance of marine life. Evenings bring colourful sunsets and a vibrant beachfront ambience, with local food stalls and markets adding to the experience. Gentle sea breezes, swaying palms, and the sound of waves create an inviting setting for both relaxation and outdoor adventure.
Dotting the Indian Ocean, Praslin Island is the second largest of the Seychelles’ islands and boasts a tranquil, laidback atmosphere. Stretching over almost 40 square kilometres, the island features lush tropical forest, pristine, world-famous beaches such as Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette, and crystal-clear turquoise waters framed by striking granite boulders. According to local legend, it may have served as a pirate hideout in the 17th and early 18th centuries, and today it is a popular resort destination. Praslin is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, where ancient coco de mer palms produce the largest seeds in the plant kingdom and where the rare, endemic Seychelles Black Parrot is found. Popular activities include turtle and tortoise spotting, snorkelling, diving and boating.
This picture-perfect island is part of the Seychelles Archipelago featuring ox-cart taxis, a verdant interior, calm aquamarine bays and stunningly beautiful beaches strewn with massive boulders; it is an utterly idyllic holiday destination. Historically, La Digue was settled by French colonists in the late 18th century, and remnants of its colonial past, such as the L'Union Estate with its traditional plantation house and vanilla fields, are still evident. La Digue has retained a charming old-world atmosphere and a strong Creole identity, with traditions and ceremonies still a focal point of the island’s culture. Major attractions include the gorgeous Anse Source d'Argent beach and the Veuve Nature Reserve, home to the elusive black paradise flycatcher, of which there are only a couple of hundred left on earth.
Situated on the east coast of Praslin, the horseshoe-shaped bay of Baie Sainte Anne is framed by verdant hills and turquoise waters, creating a serene coastal village atmosphere. The name refers not only to the bay itself but also to the district that covers much of the island's eastern side. Serving as a gateway to stunning natural wonders and historical sites, Baie Sainte Anne serves as a base from which to explore the UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai, home to the rare coco de mer palms, famous for their uniquely shaped seeds, and fragrant vanilla orchids. Visitors can look forward to winding trails, enjoy ferry trips to neighbouring islands, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or relax on pristine beaches. Once a centre for vanilla and copra production, the area retains a rich heritage, reflected in its laid-back charm and welcoming community.
Sainte Anne Marine National Park is just off the northeast coast of Mahe Island, located in the heart of Seychelles. It encompasses a collection of picturesque islands known for their pristine white-sand beaches, world-class snorkelling and diving spots, sumptuous Creole cuisine and extravagant hotels. The raw, unspoilt beauty of the environment draws many tourists annually. Sainte Anne Marine National Park forms a sanctuary to protect and sustain a unique concentration of underwater ecosystems. Visitors can discover the underwater coral garden wonderland and spot abundant marine life, such as many species of colourful tropical fish, manta rays and sea turtles hiding in the extensive seagrass meadows.
