From long-established rum distilleries to winding nature trails, discover the landmark attractions that make the Seychelles an essential destination.
Takamaka Rum Distillery
The d’Offay brothers, Richard and Bernard, founded Takamaka 20 years ago and it has since become part of the archipelago’s identity. The distillery on the 18th-century La Plaine St Andre estate produces a handful of tipples blended with local spices and fruit extracts, but by far the most popular are the easy-drinking coconut rum and amber-hued eight-year-old St André aged in American oak barrels. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the distillery and gardens with a tasting workshop available on weekdays.
Climbing Morne Seychellois
Covering a staggering 20 percent of Mahé, Morne Seychellois National Park is home to several endemic species, including the highly elusive Seychelles Scops-owl, and is laced with nature trails. If your hiking boots are craving a tricky challenge, then try trekking to the summit of the 905-metre-high Morne Seychellois. The climb takes around five hours to follow the less-maintained path and often requires cutting through thick undergrowth. Sturdy shoes are essential, and adventurers are advised to take plenty of water.
Victoria Clock Tower
One of the Seychelles’ most iconic features, this popular landmark is a prominent feature of the capital. It was erected more than a century ago in 1901 to commemorate the death of Queen Victoria, and whilst surrounding buildings have modernised over time, the clock tower has remained a virtually unchanged timestamp of the Seychelles’ historic past.
Saint Anne Marine National Park
This prized scuba diving and snorkelling hotspot is situated around 20 minutes by boat from the island of Mahé. The park, originally created in 1973 for the purposes of wildlife preservation, is the oldest marine reserve in the Seychelles. Set amid dazzling turquoise waters, it comprises eight small islands and is blessed with magnificent coral reefs and tropical fish.
The Praslin Museum
Get a glimpse of the tradition, culture, and cuisine of Praslin at the island’s very first museum, located close to Cote D’Or beach. It is a unique, must-visit attraction for visitors, who can experience a variety of interesting activities from feeding fruit bats to peeling coconuts. As well as boasting a garden of medicinal plants, museum-goers will be able to spot the rich abundance of wildlife close to the exhibit.
Aldabra Islands
The large, uninhabited island of Aldabra, within the Aldabra Group is the world’s largest raised atoll, surrounded by a shallow lagoon. Naturally protected by a coral reef and preserved from manmade interference by UNESCO, Aldabra boasts the world’s largest population of giant tortoises with numbers in excess of 152,000. Embark on a cruise to observe these ancient creatures and learn about local conservation efforts at the research station.
Anse Lazio
In the northwest of Praslin, you will find what is widely regarded as one of the world’s best beaches. This is quintessential Seychellois escapism at its finest, with granite boulders bordering one end of the bay and white sands fringed by a thick curtain of swaying palm fronds and tamakata trees. The idyllic backdrop opens out to a deep bay, unprotected by coral reefs, although perfectly suitable for bathing.
Anse Marron
If you want to get off the beaten track, visit this spectacular beach, only accessed by a two-kilometre hike from Anse Source d’Argent. It’s a great swimming spot, as imposing boulders create a natural, crystal-clear pool.
Anse Victorin
Rent a private villa on Frégate Island, and you’ll get a chance to visit Anse Victorin, voted ‘the world’s best beach’ by The Times. You’ll normally have the place to yourself – relax on one of the loungers or go on a snorkelling excursion.
