The picture perfect Seychelles is a haven for holiday seekers. Imagine laying on a warm white powder sand and feeling the cool breeze caressing you. Huge granite rocks of different sizes and shapes on your right and a coconut tree bending over the seashore on your left while the gentle lapping of the waves gradually carries you to a more and more relaxed state. This fantastic sensation is what you can expect, all while discovering THE SEYCHELLES.
This fabulous archipelago is not just about beaches but also about unspoiled nature, marine treasures, endemic animals and plants, postcard scenery, unique culture and a distinctive cuisine.
Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands scattered over the Indian Ocean. Among these 115 islands, 41 forms parts of the Inner Islands and 74 of the Outer Islands. The Seychelles is about 1,600 km east of Kenya and covers an area of 459 km². Teeming with pristine white beaches, giant granite boulders, and a blue azure lagoon makes the archipelago a legendary beauty.
The Seychelles comprises of 3 main islands, notably: Mahé, La Digue and Praslin Island.
History
Before the 17th century, the Seychelles remains inhabited and was mostly used by pirates to hide their treasures. In the 18th century the governor of Mauritius, Mahe de la Bourbonnais sent Lazare Picault to explore and chart the islands northeast of Madagascar.
The French were the first to colonize the Seychelles but in the early 19th century the Britain took control of the Seychelles.
On June 29, 1976 the Seychelles became an independent republic within the Commonwealth with Sir James Mancham as its President and Albert René as Prime Minister.
Culture & Religion
Seychelles has developed a unique culture by the blending of different races and nationalities of people residing in the archipelago.
The official languages are the Seychellois Creole, French and English.
Roman Catholic is the dominant religion, however other religions such as Islam, Hinduism and Chinese are also practice in the island.
Seychellois are known for their hospitality and friendliness.
All while discovering Seychelles you will notice that Mahé, Praslin and La Digue Island are real bijou of the Indian Ocean.
Mahé Island
Mahé is the most developed and largest island of Seychelles. Home to the capital city Victoria, Mahé has a population of around 80,000 citizens, consisting of more than 90% of Seychelles population. With 60 stunning beaches, waterfalls, jungle, mountain walks and striking viewpoints, Mahé has evolved into a main tourist destination. Mahé is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, Creole architecture and market.
Praslin Island
Praslin-Seychelles is a delight for beach lovers, a piece of paradise on earth. Commonly listed among the best beaches in the world, Praslin beaches and lush tropical forest will leave you speechless. Being the second largest island of the Seychelles, Praslin has a population of merely 6,500 citizens. The island has also an 18 hole championship golf course. Get ready to discover the endemic Coco De Mer and other rare species. Praslin is considered to be a ‘MUST visit destination’.
La Digue Island
La Digue famous beaches never fail to impress, the perfect laid-back location. It is the smallest of the 3 main islands and has a population of only 2,000 persons. La Digue iconic beaches and landscape will take your breath away. There are a handful of taxis and local bus services, however, the best way to discover la Digue is by bicycle.
Beaches & National Park
Seychelles and its beaches are of unmatched beauty, here is a list of those amazing beaches:
Anse Source d’Argent
Perhaps the most beautiful beach you will set eyes upon. Anse Source d’Argent is the star of the Seychelles, with its naturally sculptured granite boulders and crystal clear turquoise waters, Anse Source d’argent is spectacular. Situated on La Digue Island, the famous beach is probably the most photographed and has appeared in many films.
Anze Lazio
Situated in the northwest of Praslin Island, Anse Lazio is adorned by white powder-fine sand, lapis lazuli waters backed by scenic granite boulders. Anse Lazio deserves its reputation, a real gem of the Indian Ocean. Recently voted the 6th best beach in the world by TripAdvisors.
Anse Georgette
Again, one of the riches of Seychelles, Anse Georgette situated on Praslin is an outstanding beach. Powder soft sand, incredible palm trees and blue turquoise water make the beach an unforgettable souvenir of Seychelles. Considered the second best beach in Praslin Island after Anse Lazio, Anse Georgette is a truly jaw-dropping beach.
Anse Intendance
Anse Intendance in Southern Mahé is the perfect location to lay your surfing materials. With high waves, Anse Intendance presents the ideal conditions for surfing. An amazing beach with imposing granite formation and beautiful scenery. Rank among the best beaches in the Indian Ocean, Anse Intendance is a true postcard image.
National Park
Vallée de Mai National Park
An untouched vestige of natural palm forest preserved since years. Designated as a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO, Vallée de Mai is highly recommended. Almost conserved to its original state, the national park has no match. Resting on the granitic island of Praslin, Vallée de Mai covers an area of 19.5 ha and is a sanctuary largely unchanged since prehistoric times.
Vallée de Mai is home to the famous Coco de mer only found in Praslin and Curieuse Island and to five endemic palm trees. Unique for its wildlife, the National Park has rare species of bird such as the black parrot.
Interesting facts about the Seychelles
- The gorgeous Seychelles was at a time a pirate hideout. Rumors are that the infamous pirate Olivier Levasseur hid a treasure of great value in the Seychelles Island.
- The heaviest land tortoise, Esmeralda, resides on the Bird Island.
- The endemic Coco de mer produces the heaviest and largest seed in the world.
- Victoria, the capital of Seychelles is the smallest capital in the world and can be explored in a day on foot.
- Rarest bird species can be spotted in Seychelles.
- Prince William and his wife spent their honeymoon in the Seychelles.
- The republic was uninhabited until the 18th century
