Granite Giants and Beaches Like No Others
Seychelles is an archipelago of about 115 islands in the western Indian Ocean, northeast of Madagascar, known for sculpted granite boulders, white-sand beaches and rich wildlife. Most visitors stay on Mahé, Praslin and La Digue, the three principal inner islands, where ancient granite shapes frame the shoreline. Anse Source d'Argent on La Digue, with its pink-tinged boulders and shallow lagoon, is among the most photographed beaches in the world, and Anse Lazio on Praslin is a classic crescent of sand backed by greenery.
Nature is the star. The Vallée de Mai on Praslin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the coco de mer, a palm that produces the largest seed in the plant world. Aldabra Atoll, also listed by UNESCO, shelters one of the planet's great populations of giant tortoises. Mahé's mountain trails pass through misty forest, and the capital Victoria has a lively market with spices, fish and tropical fruit. The culture is a warm Creole blend of African, French and Asian influences.
Island Hopping from Mahé to La Digue
The joy of Seychelles is how easily the islands connect. Ferries link Mahé, Praslin and La Digue, and short flights serve outer islands, so a stay can mix a lively base with quieter retreats. On La Digue, bicycles are the main transport, and ox-carts still appear along the lanes. Snorkelling at Sainte Anne Marine National Park near Mahé, boat trips to Curieuse and its giant tortoises, and sunset beach picnics fill the days.
Dining is a highlight. Creole cooking brings together grilled fish, octopus curry, coconut, chilli and breadfruit, often served beside the sea. Resorts range from intimate guesthouses to private-island retreats, giving a hotel group plenty to showcase. Many travellers pair the islands with the Maldives for a two-destination Indian Ocean holiday, or with Dubai on the way out, and the sister destination of India lies across the water.
Read the full The Seychelles guide on Visit Travel Group, or see TheSeychelles.co.uk on Visit Travel Group.