Immerse yourself in the discovery of idyllic white beaches, incredible view points and vibrant coral reefs with this guide to the outstandingly beautiful archipelago of Seychelles.
Located in the Indian Ocean, off the coast of East Africa, the Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 coral and granite islands with a unique scenery, with most of the islands having protected areas of marine sanctuaries and nature reserves, some of which are part of UNESCO's heritage.
Some species are endemic to the area, such as the giant Aldabra tortoises and the rare Coco de Mer palm, a tree that takes 50 years to mature and produces the world’s largest palm flower and a “double coconut” that takes 7 years to grow.
"It was a trip to refuel the batteries and aesthetically gorgeous. The nature in any and every corner was breathtaking."
@diterehova
5 TIPS FOR SEYCHELLES
- The best time to visit the Seychelles is from January to April
- The local currency is the rupee (SCR), but tourists can also pay in US Dollars or Euros, and credit cards are sometimes accepted
- Many Seychelles attractions, museums and landmarks are closed on Sundays
- Be aware that in the Seychelles cars are driven on the left side
- Wifi and internet connection might be tricky to get, so be ready to enjoy a digital detox vacation
- And last, bring loads of mosquito repellent!
WHAT TO DO
Explore the tiny capital of Victoria
Must-go places:
- Sir Selwyn-Clarke Market, for seafood, tropical fruits, or souvenirs and pareos (sarongs)
- The colonial clock tower, which didn’t work for the first 96 years of its life
- The Hindu Sri Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple, the only one in the Seychelles
- The National Museum of History
- The leaf-shaded Botanical Gardens.
Visit Takamaka distillery
Richard and Bernard Offay founded Takamaka 20 years ago, a distillery on the 18th-century La Plaine St Andre estate. It produces an easy-drinking coconut rum and amber-hued eight-year-old St André aged in American oak barrels. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the distillery and gardens with a tasting during the weekdays.
Hike at the Morne Seychellois
Morne Seychellois National Park covers about 2% of Mahé's island, and is home to several endemic species. The summit of the Morne Seychellois is 905m-high and takes around five hours, trekking a less-maintained path and often cutting through thick undergrowth.
"The best souvenir I brought back from the trip is with no doubt a bottle of the local Takamaka rum."
@diterehova
WHERE TO STAY
Four Seasons Resort Seychelles, Mahé
A romantic hideaway set in a tropical paradise, with an incredible Spa at the top of the hill and the possibility of enjoying a sunset meal on a deserted beach.
Six Senses Zil Pasyon, Félicité
A true ecological jewel in a private island, with coral-fringed beaches and massive granite rocks. Step in tune with nature, swim with turtles, and enjoy an intimate destination that is a tropical ode to well-being and absolute comfort.
Le Domaine de L'Orangeraie, La Digue
A cozy and private getaway made of 63 stunning villas and a breathtaking spa. Le Domaine de l’Orangeraie is the perfect retreat to capture the true essence of exotic lifestyle in The Seychelles.
WHERE TO EAT
Les Lauriers
It is the restaurant of Les Lauriers Eco Hotel, serving a mix of Creole and European dishes, with Pizzas freshly prepared in an authentic Italian Pizza oven, completed by a wide range of delicious homemade desserts and a rich selection of cocktails to enjoy by the pool.
Tec-Tec
Designed by Bill Bensley for an exceptional dining experience, Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas' restaurant offers Mediterranean fusion cuisine with Creole-Asian accents, all in a spectacular beachfront setting.
Château de Feuilles
Considered one of the best restaurants of Seychelles, Château de Feuilles, a Relais & Châteaux Hotel, serves tempting flavours and enchanting aromas, a truly delectable international cuisine with a creole fusion twist.
WHAT TO WEAR
Dahlia Petit Bag
Palazzo Pants
