Luxury Seychelles Holidays

Sun-drenched and exotic, the Seychelles seduces visitors with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, translucent turquoise waters and coral reefs teeming with marine life. Its extraordinary natural scenery, of jungle-clad mountains, ancient rainforest, and World Heritage listed nature reserves, is home to captivating flora and fauna. With private island retreats, exclusive five star resorts, and romantic hideaways, it’s a true tropical island paradise.

Lying 1600km off East Africa, this remote cluster of one hundred and fifteen tiny granite and coralline Indian Ocean islands, of which just thirty are inhabited, is one of the world’s smallest nations. It is known for its luxuriant vegetation and picture-perfect beaches blessed with powdery-soft white sand. But the Seychelles also offers national parks and marine reserves. Unique and rare endemic species include the endangered jellyfish tree and the native Coco de Mer palm, paradise flycatcher and magpie robin. It’s also home to the world’s smallest frog and the largest population of giant tortoises on earth. There is a laid-back vibe and creole culture. Tantalising fusion cuisine is influenced by African, Asian and European heritage. The country’s only championship golf course can be found on Praslin. Island-hopping by ferry or light aircraft is easy and a great way to experience the diversity of the islands.

The largest of the main islands, Mahé, is the most populous. This international gateway also serves as the central hub for onward travel to other islands. Of its many stunning beaches, isolated Petit Anse, breathtaking Port Launay, family-friendly Beau Vallon and small and sheltered Anse Louis, claim some of the top spots. For hikers and birdwatchers, there is Morne Seychellois National Park with mangroves, lush tropical jungle and the nation’s tallest mountain, the 905 metre Morne Seychellois. Cerf Island offers world-class diving and snorkelling.

Referred to as the Garden of Eden, Praslin, a 60-minute ferry ride from Mahé, is verdant, with a coastline of dreamy beaches and secluded coves: pristine Anse Lazio, and Anse Georgette with its exceptionally soft, white sands. World heritage protected Vallee de Mai nature reserve is famed for its rare Coco de Mer trees, producing the largest seed in the world, vanilla orchids, and the carnivorous pitcher plant. It’s home to the bronze gecko, rare tiger chameleon and many endangered bird species including the black parrot, fruit pigeon and the Seychelles bulbul. From here it is a ten minute boat ride to the marine reserve island of Curieuse, a refuge for 500 or so giant tortoises.

A 15 minute ferry ride from Praslin, slow paced, sleepy and almost car-free La Digue, boasts untouched coves and a village where tiny restaurants cook up the catch of the day. Discover the island on foot or bicycle. Encircled by coral reef, the third largest island, Silhouette, with its tiny collection of houses and one hotel, is 45 minutes by boat from Mahé. Rich in biodiversity, much of it is a protected national park, including a virgin rainforest. There are hiking trails weaving through the island’s lush interior, diving and snorkelling in the marine park, long swathes of white sand beaches and spectacular views from its central peak, Mount Daubin.

North of Mahé is one of the most remote private islands in the world, Denis Island. This coral islet is a wonderful desert island where the emphasis is on sustainability. There are flawless white sand beaches, a house reef, calm lagoon, deep sea fishing and a working farm.

Climate and when to visit

The climate is warm and tropical with temperatures generally between 24 and 32ºC. April, May, October and November are considered the best months to visit. December to February are less crowded although rain, sometimes heavy, is common. May to August is hot and humid. Rough seas and seaweed are not uncommon in August. Hiking is good from May to September, diving from March to May and September to November when underwater visibility is particularly good. The birdwatching season runs April to October. Hawkbill turtles lay eggs between October and January, with hatchlings dashing to the sea from December to March. October is host to the week-long Festival Kreol, a colourful celebration of music, dance, arts, crafts and cuisine.

Seychelles highlights include:

-Anse Lazio beach, Praslin

-Vallee de Mai National Park, Praslin

-Anse Source d’Argent beach, La Digue

-Anse Volbert beach, Praslin

Experience the Seychelles

Tour of Mahé (half day)

Discover the highlights of Mahé Island, including the capital Victoria and its market, the National Botanical Garden and the spectacular sea and mountain views from Mission Lodge vantage point.

Tour of Praslin (half day)

A private guided tour of Praslin Island exploring the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before heading to the north west tip of the island to enjoy Anse Lazio, regarded as one of the world's most beautiful beaches.

Hiking tours of Mahé (full day)

An ideal way to see the natural beauty of the island and of the Seychelles. A selection of trails includes Anse Major beach, Copolia with 360 degree views and the flora and fauna of Mare aux Cochon.

Hiking tours of Praslin (full day)

With countless secluded bays and forested areas, Praslin is ideal for exploration on foot. A selection of trails includes Plaine Hollandaise, Fond Ferdinand and Glacis Noir with wonderful view overlooking the east coast and La Digue.

Zephir cruise private charter (half day)

Zephir glass bottom boats are a modern way to experience the diverse marine species found in the crystal waters surrounding the Seychelles. Visit the marine parks in search of schools of colourful fish and other marine life.

La Digue by boat and bicycle (full day)

Ideal for those with a sense of adventure, travel to the beautiful island of La Digue by ferry and following a short briefing on popular sites and routes, you are free to explore by bicycle for the day before returning by ferry.