Seychelles: The Paradise Where Everyone Finds Their Perfect Escape

Nature, Adventure, and Culture in the Exclusive Indian Ocean Archipelago

Seychelles, a stunning archipelago in the Indian Ocean, offers more than just breathtaking beaches. If the Garden of Eden ever existed, it might well have been the Valley of Mai Nature Reserve. To experience this lush haven of palm trees, pines, waterfalls, and endemic, allegedly “vegetarian” snakes, one must travel to Praslin Island, nestled among the 150 islands of Seychelles. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the unique Coco de Mer palm, whose coconuts can weigh over 20 kg. The island also features trails that make it a haven for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.

The Valley of Mai is just one of Seychelles’ many attractions. With 50% of its territory protected and only about 350,000 tourists visiting annually—a figure regulated by the government to prevent overcrowding—Seychelles is a sought-after destination. “Whether you’re lounging on the beach, diving, exploring mangroves, enjoying tranquil resorts, savoring local cuisine, or soaking in the culture, Seychelles offers a paradise for everyone,” says Sylvestre Radegonde, the country’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Among the highlights are the spectacular beaches with miles of white sand bordered by coconut palms and crystal-clear turquoise waters. On the protected island of La Digue, just an hour by boat from the main island of Mahé, you’ll find Anse Source D’Argent, one of the most photographed beaches in the world and frequently hailed as the best beach on the planet. Its unique granite boulders resemble sculptures. Another exceptional beach is Anse La Passe on the nearly uninhabited island of Silhouette, home to the magnificent Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa, set against a lush hillside.

The Charms of Mahé

For those who prefer not to island-hop, Mahé, the largest and most populated island with 100,000 residents, offers plenty of options for discovering paradise. Popular beaches include the lively Beau Vallon and the serene Petite Anse, Anse Takamaka, and Anse Intendance. Each provides a perfect spot for relaxation, scenic walks, or diving adventures.

Mahé also boasts its own tropical paradise with the Morne National Park, which includes the island’s highest peak accessible via various trails. This dreamlike space also features Mission Lodge, an old school founded in 1876 for the children of freed slaves. Today, it is a UNESCO Heritage viewpoint offering the best views of the island’s eastern coast, including the capital, Victoria.

A stroll through Victoria, the world’s smallest capital with around 25,000 inhabitants, is a must for history and culture enthusiasts. Surrounded by mountains and lush vegetation, this exotic town showcases its colonial past through vibrant architecture. The oldest building is the National Museum of History, dating back to 1885, and the most iconic is the Little Big Ben, a miniature replica of the London Parliament’s clock tower located at the intersection of the city’s busiest streets.

Victoria also features a stunning Hindu temple, a Catholic cathedral with a clock tower, and the bustling Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market. Opened in 1840, this market offers fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and freshly caught fish. Surrounding the market are streets filled with shops selling fashion, jewelry, and crafts—ideal for discovering local culture and the warm hospitality of the Seychellois, who speak a blend of French, English, and Creole.

Culinary Delights

Seychellois cuisine is a vibrant mix of cultural influences, especially from Asia and India, featuring spices, curries, coconut milk, and aromatic herbs. Tropical fruits such as bananas, papayas, and mangoes are also prominent. Traditional dishes include grilled fish with Creole sauce, octopus in coconut milk, clam soup, fruit bat curry, and mango and papaya salads.

For a taste of local cuisine in Victoria, visit the rustic Marie Antoinette restaurant on Serret Rd, where you can dine indoors or on one of two terraces, one of which features a large terrarium with giant tortoises.

Another essential experience is at Cap Lazare Nature Reserve on Anse Gouvernment Baie Lazare. Here, a dinner accompanied by a traditional dance around a bonfire, known as moutya, showcases the local culture and music.

Travel Tips

1. Visa and Entry: A visa is not required, but an online travel authorization is necessary, costing 10 euros (seychellestravelauthorization.com).
2. Climate: Expect tropical temperatures between 24°C and 32°C year-round, with sea temperatures around 30°C. Heavy rains are common but brief.
3. Time and Currency: Seychelles is three hours ahead of Spain. The currency is the Seychellois rupee (6 cents per euro). Cash in dollars or euros is accepted in places that don’t accept cards.
4. Transportation: Renting a car is recommended for exploring the island, where driving is on the left. Taxis are also affordable.
5. Beaches: All beaches are public, even those adjacent to major resorts.
6. Shopping: Look for vanilla, cinnamon, and other spices at the central market, and also handcrafted coconut items.

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