Famous for being a beautiful collection of islands located east of Africa in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles is truly deserving of its incredible reputation. If you are wanting a picturesque holiday, great weather, a private villa with plunge pool built into the tropical hillside, beautiful beaches, crystal-clear warm waters, fresh seafood and a paradis-esque island then look no further. 

Throughout this blog I hope to give you a better idea of the different places that you can visit whilst in the Seychelles. From private islands to boutique hotels and all-inclusive retreats. Find out more about dining with the locals and the many activities you can try.

The Seychelles is set in the heart of the Indian Ocean, a collection of 115 idyllic islands, many with beautiful views, white sandy beaches and a tropical paradise. Many of the islands are surrounded by coral reefs, very accessible if you enjoy snorkelling. They are peaceful with golden sandy beaches, granite boulders and turquoise waters. The best time to travel to the Seychelles is in April or May and October or November. However it is warm all year round but these are the optimum months. If you are lucky enough to travel to Mahé in April you may see the annual carnival, with brightly coloured costumes, lively music and lots of local creole cuisine – it is a wonderful sight to behold.

The largest of the islands is Mahé which also has the largest population and is a tropical hub of culture, nature and the ideal place to find your bearings and settle in. A 10 hour direct flight from London, or 13 hours indirect from a variety of UK airports, it is an easy destination to travel to. Mahé is a volcanic island, with a mountainous and jungle landscape whilst also offering idyllic beaches and beautiful hotels. One area that is popular is the Beau Vallon area, if you are keen to explore the local area hotels such as the H Beau Vallon are ideal, with spacious rooms, ocean views and a short stroll away from lots of restaurants, beach bars and an easy location to explore the island from. It is also within a short drive from the airport making it very convenient.

If you are more adventurous and would like to explore Mahé there is plenty to do. From the Port Glaud Waterfall to numerous hikes and walks it is convenient to head towards the more hilly areas where you can go rock climbing or tackle the jungle zip wire. Nature lovers should head to Morne National Park for an afternoon, whether you are hoping for a picnic with a view or something more energetic, it is fantastic for an insight into this incredible island. For the more relaxed holiday goer you may want to explore one of the beautiful beaches in the south of the island or stay in one of the hillside boutique hotels such as the luxurious 5* Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas. This is the optimum honeymoon retreat with a private and secluded selection of villas with panoramic views, private swimming pools, a divine restaurant and a range of spa options and facilities offering an exclusive all-inclusive package.

On the east coast of Mahé is the famous rum distillery La Plaine St Andre, which offers something the locals love – rum. Ideal for gifts to bring home, the distillery offers rum tastings, tours and has a famously popular restaurant serving local food and rum cocktails, perfect for those looking for a more relaxed excursion. 

Just 50 minutes by boat or 20 minutes by plane from Mahé is Praslin Island, the second largest island in the Seychelles. With a much smaller population, this beautiful island is suited to those wanting to relax and be surrounded by nature. Ideal for those that are looking for a beach paradise.

Praslin Island, home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Vallée de Mai, is a wonderful nature park full of the Coco de Mer palm trees. These are the large indigenous palm trees and produce the famous fruit also known as the sea coconut only found in the Seychelles. Throughout the Heritage Site are many rare bird species, including the endangered black paradise flycatcher. Just a 500 metre walk through the tropical rain forest are the hidden waterfalls, rarely visited, they are beautiful and calming, a must when visiting this incredible island.

If you are looking for a touch of luxury whilst staying on Praslin Island the Raffles Seychelles is a spectacular hotel offering exclusive rooms and villas, and is an excellent base for your stay here. Another property which is more family-friendly and an all-inclusive hotel is the Constance Lemuria. With a hilltop golf course offering spectacular views it is somewhere keen golfers should head to. Island hopping from Praslin island is easy with many daily boat trips to the neighbouring islands. The turquoise waters are fantastic for sunbathing and enjoying a few days of peace and quiet. In particular the Anse Lazio Beach is a beautiful and secluded beach in the north-west of Praslin Island, with postcard worthy views, warm weather, palm trees and clear waters it is one of our favourite places.

The closest island to Praslin Island is La Digue, a 15 minute boat ride away, with a number of boats leaving hourly to visit. This is a beautiful island that steps back in time, our tip would be to hire a bicycle in the harbour to explore this hidden gem. Full of interesting wildlife and flora and fauna there are some idyllic beaches including the Anse Coco, an inspiring spot to stop and take in your surroundings. La Digue is excellent for sampling local cuisine and has a choice of  restaurants and bars making it a fun day out, it is also home to the Veuve Nature Reserve.

Now onto the more exclusive private islands or ones with boutique hotels where you can visit your own private piece of paradise. If you are looking for a day trip rather than to stay, head to  Moyenne Island, a small island with large boulders and giant turtles that are well looked after.

For those looking for privacy, peace and quiet and to be surrounded by nature in an idyllic setting then look no further than Denis Private Island. A favourite with honeymooners and couples, this island is chic and well maintained, with beautiful cottages and villas, some with private pools and a spectacular house reef. It is somewhere that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and well rested. The island is home to the famous giant tortoise and has its own vegetable patch where the chef will pick your food fresh daily and serve up delicious meals for you every evening. A 5* eco-friendly retreat this relaxing island is the perfect place to hide away and enjoy some quality time together.

For a once in a lifetime trip head to Fregate Private Island, home to the Aldabra giant tortoises, this island is a luxurious sanctuary. Full of tropical gardens, exclusive villas, incredible mesmerising beaches and views that rival the tropical islands in the Maldives. This island is tailored to your every need from private beach dining to the organic kitchen gardens, you can stay on the beach or in the hilltop private villas and enjoy the view from your own swimming pool. This island is a step above in terms of quality and service and will not disappoint. Whether you are looking for a family holiday, honeymoon or to hire the whole island, its accommodation staff will ensure a magical trip.

The Seychelles is an incredible collection of beautiful islands offering a range of accommodation to suit all guests, from family-friendly all-inclusive hotels and boutique hideaways to private islands there is certainly something for everyone. If you are interested in visiting for a seven night stay or to island hop and explore a little more give one of our specialists a call on 0208 0502 681 and they will be happy to talk you through the best options. It is one of our favourite places and helping you create a wish-list holiday is something we would love to do.