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The Seychelles is an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, northeast of Madagascar, consisting of more than 100 islands of which 83 are named and 46 are permanently uninhabited. Mahé is the principal island comprising of 142 sq km, with the islands of Praslin, La Digue and Silhouette being the next important . Situated about 1,600 km off the east coast of Africa, Mahe extends 27 km north to south and 11 km east to west and has a coastline of 127 km.
The Seychelles Islands are the highest point of the Mascarene Ridge, an Indian Ocean ridge running in a generally north-south direction.
The granite islands rise above the sea surface to form a peak or ridge which, in the case of Mahé, attains an elevation of 3,000 ft at Morne Seychellois, the highest point. Rugged crests, towering cliffs, boulders and domes contribute to the islands great natural beauty. Here and there, in the hollows between the rock relief, are pockets of lateritic soil, often very thin and easily eroded.
Mahé possesses white sandy beaches which, for a distance of 200 or 300 years, are flats of coral and shell known locally as plateaus, although they rarely achieve an elevation of more than 10 ft above sea level. Small streams descending the mountain slopes deposit alluvial material, creating the most fertile soils on the island.
The coralline Seychelles are, in contrast, low-lying, rising only a few feet above the surface of the sea. Many have the typical Indian Ocean lagoon. Soils tend to be thin with poor moisture retention. These island are suited only to coconut palm and a few other species.
› Mahe
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At the heart of the Seychelles archipelago lies Mahe, the largest and most densely populated of these beautiful islands. Deptite the fact that this is the busiest island it is still eas to find picturesque villages and deserted beach hideaways. The island boasts around 60 idyllic golden beaches and coves, and those wish to venture futher inland can explore the soaring mountains with their lush rainforests. The mountains are the highest in the archipelago and form a dramatic backdrop to the stunning coastline.
The capital city, Victoria, claims to be the smallest in the world and visitors can enjoy genuine Seychellois culture at the vibrant local market. There is also an interesting range of other cultural, historical and artistic attractions. The botanical gardens, with its superb collection of tropical plants, is a firm favourite with nature lovers.
With an average year round temperature of 27˚c, Mah? has the perfect climate for waterskiing, sailing and windsurfing. A variety of water sports are available on the larger beaches. Alternatively, many visitors enjoy simply relaxing in the sun.
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› Praslin
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A short 15 minute plane flight, or 3-hour boat ride from Mahe, lies the wonderful island of Praslin. This, the second largest island with it?s 5,000 inhabitants is unique in the world, some of the plants here grow no where else within the whole world, even within the Seychelles. The island is like it?s big sister Mahe, a granite island, but somewhat less mountainous, it?s highest point being only 370 meters.
Cars exist on the island, and the roads are good, but you are assured of peace and quiet. A bicycle can be hired instead of a car, and offers the tourist the possibility to explore virtually everywhere. The hotels offer a luxury standard in quiet and peaceful surroundings, with some bungalows directly on the beach.
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› Saint Anne Island
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Saint Anne Island is the largest island in the Marine National Park off Mahe, with a peak reaching 800 feet. Discovered on Saint Anne's Day, it was the first place the early French settlers lived before colonising nearby Mahe.
In its recent history the island has been used as a place of refuge for escaped prisoners and as a whaling base during the early 20th century.
Up until 1992 it was used to house the National Youth Service where young people aged between 15 - 17 would spend some time living on the island as part of their state education. Now amidst the islands tropical unspoilt vegetation lie the 87 Villas of Sainte Anne Resort and Spa, Private Island.
Occupying nearly a mile of undulating coastline the only sounds are rustling palm trees and gentle waves lapping at white sandy beaches. Teeming with marine life the three beaches at Sainte Anne offer a unique experience of complete harmony and nature. |
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