Seychelles: Routes on Mahé, Praslin and La Digue
The Seychelles archipelago offers travelers beaches with granite rocks, tropical forests, boat trips and routes on the islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue. As The Jerusalem Post reports, this type of holiday is centered on beaches, snorkeling, walks along nature trails and trips to the capital, Victoria.
The main island of Mahé, where the airport and the capital are located, makes it possible to take day trips to different parts of the island. The article’s author notes that renting a car can be an alternative to taxis, but drivers should take into account left-hand traffic, narrow roads and the absence of shoulders on some sections.
Southern and northern Mahé
In southern Mahé is Mango House Seychelles, LXR Hotels & Resorts, a boutique hotel located in the former private home of Italian photographer Gian Paolo Barbieri. The property has 41 rooms, suites and villas, three swimming pools, a spa and restaurants serving Mediterranean, Asian and Creole cuisine. From there, visitors can explore Petite Anse, Anse Intendance and Anse Takamaka beaches, the Jardin du Roi botanical garden and hiking routes.
In the north of the island is Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa, an adults-only hotel located on a slope among granite rocks overlooking Anse Beau Vallon. It has operated since the 1930s. The publication notes that writer Ian Fleming was among the hotel’s guests and is believed to have drawn inspiration there for one of the James Bond books.
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The hotel has a marine center where visitors can rent snorkeling equipment, kayaks and SUP boards. The center also supports a coral restoration project on an artificial reef. Among the nature routes in the area is the Copolia Trail, which is one kilometer long, including 500 meters of ascent. The viewpoint offers views of the marina and neighboring islands.
Praslin and La Digue
A ferry trip to La Digue takes about two hours. Another option is a 15-minute flight to Praslin, followed by a ferry journey of about 15 minutes. Praslin is home to the Vallée de Mai nature reserve, where the coco de mer palm grows. Its seeds, which can weigh up to 25 kilograms, are described as the largest in the plant world.
La Digue is mostly flat and is known for getting around by bicycle. The route to Anse Source d’Argent beach passes through the historic L’Union Estate complex with old workshops and vanilla plantations. Giant Aldabra tortoises can also be seen on the island. Anse Source d’Argent beach is distinguished by large granite formations along the coast.
The author of the travel review said she visited Seychelles at the invitation of Air Seychelles, Hilton and La Digue Transparent Kayak.