Aerial view of Denis Island.
Chalet on Denis Island.
Interior of Frigate Island Private Resort.
Le Meridien Fisherman's Cove, Mahé.
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'Pristine' hardly sums up the Seychelles. This group of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, more than 1,000 miles off the east coast of Africa, are famous for their wildlife, coral reefs and white, sandy, Edenic beaches, all maintained by a government and people passionate about conservation and keeping their paradise in its natural state.
This all means that the Seychelles offers secluded luxury to visitors, with even the largest hotels having barely 100 rooms - private villas are heavily sought after, offering the ultimate in relaxing contentment amongst breathtaking scenery.
The largest of the islands, Mahé, is home to 90% of the permanent residents of the Seychelles, and is the closest you can get to cosmopolitan in this laid-back corner of the world. The capital, Victoria, was the first place in the Seychelles to be settled after being claimed by the French in 1770. The islands later came to be ruled by the British, as is touchingly shown by Victoria's most famous landmark, the silver clock in the centre of the city's main crossroads - a scaled-down replica of Big Ben, made for the Queen who gave her name to the city.
Until European immigrants arrived in the late eighteenth century, the Seychelles were completely uninhabited. This means that the local culture shows a vast melting-pot of influences, especially French, British and East African. This mix shines through in everything from the languages to the food. That the islands were uninhabited until so recently also perhaps helps to explain the exotic and unique wildlife and the untouched beauty of these remote islands.
The beaches, reefs and woodlands are home to all manner of strange creatures and plants, most famously the giant tortoise, which often weigh in at more than 250kg and are among the longest-lived animals on the planet. More than 150,000 giant tortoises reside on the Aldabra Atoll, which is one of the Seychelles' two UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Fortunately for the phobic, there are no snakes or dangerous insects, no crocodiles and no sharks, and no compulsory vaccinations (although it is recommended you contact your GP before travelling). Unlike many other destinations famed for their exoticism, you can happily explore the islands that make up the Seychelles safe in the knowledge that nothing around you wants to kill you!
The Seychelles' most famous tree species, the 'Coco de mer', is only one of hundreds and hundreds of species of plant, animal, bird and fish found only here. It has the largest seed of any plant in the world, found inside a giant fruit weighing up to 40kg. The fruit has been colloquially known as the 'love nut' ever since bored sailors exploring the islands decided it bore a striking resemblance to a woman's buttocks!
The Seychelles is frequently praised for the extent of its conservation work, which is pursued with rigour by both government and volunteers. The BBC's Rita Payne calls the Seychelles "one of the world's most environmentally conscious countries" and notes that the inhabitants "are acutely aware of being custodians of their natural heritage." The island of Cousine, for example, is a giant bird sanctuary, full of rare species protected from predators by the authorities, and only a 15 minute helicopter flight from Mahé. If you want the ultimate in gorgeous seclusion, you can even stay in one of the four exclusive villas on Cousine, each located just metres from the beach amongst the trees.
Most of the activities on offer in the Seychelles tend to fit in with the general spirit of any trip here - relaxation. Scuba diving is very popular, as is big game fishing - equipment to do either can be easily hired. Some water-sports are also on offer for those seeking a few thrills amongst the tranquillity.
After a busy day relaxing, you'll want to sample the local cuisine - you certainly won't have to worry about it being boring or bland! Unsurprisingly, fish is a speciality dish throughout the Seychelles, often served spicy. Bourzwa (red snapper) is served to perfection in many restaurants and hotels, and you can try octopus or even fruit bat if you're feeling adventurous! Seychelles cooking is infused with Indian and African influences, with curries especially popular and powerful local chillies used to complement many dishes, but there are Italian, Chinese and Japanese restaurants dotted around the islands too.
The Seychelles is the perfect destination for calm and luxury, especially for those seeking privacy rather than bustling nightlife. The climate is most pleasant between June and November, and although the humidity can be high during the hottest months, March and April, the temperature is seldom excessive and storms are very rare. Whether you choose to island-hop or stay in one place, the calm and beauty of the Seychelles is sure to take your breath away.
Wetherby Travel are Seychelles experts and can advise and guide to make sure you choose exactly the right resort to suit your individual needs.
Call us on 01937 588626 |
