Sightseeing in Mahe Island - what to see. Complete travel guide

Mahe Island is the largest and most visited of the Seychelles; fans of various activities enjoy spending time there. Dozens of luxury resorts, beaches with pristine beauty and impenetrable rainforests, fascinating historical sights and modern entertainment make the island irresistible in eyes of travelers. The excursion program offered by Mahe is very diverse and interesting; most of excursion objects are natural attractions.

The largest settlement on the island is the city of Victoria, the capital of this small world. At every step you can discover amazing historical sites; the town’s square can boast a copy of Big Ben. The Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate Conception situated nearby is the most important religious attraction of the island; that’s the architectural monument unique in its kind.

Art lovers will enjoy Craft Village , a kind of artisan village, where products of the best masters of the island are represented. While walking through the capital you should definitely look into the historic museum or stroll through the beautiful Mont Fleuri botanical garden. The garden was founded in the early 20th century by one of the wealthy gentlemen living on the island. The founder used his garden for experimental purposes planting exotic plants brought from all over the world. Currently, the main value of the botanical garden is a large collection of trees, some of which are very rare. Garden visitors are given the opportunity to plant a palm tree by seedling plants, which can be bought at a local hall. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

One of the most visited cultural institutions of the capital is Michael Adams Studio devoted to the local artist whose work is known far beyond the archipelago. The gallery occupies a classic chalet, which in addition to the workshop is equipped with a small shop. Everyone can buy pictures he like and other interesting souvenirs, branded calendars and postcards there. The Sir Selwyn Selwyn Clarke Market deserves special attention; a walk through the colorful rows would be as amazing as visit to the museum. A choice of souvenirs and handicrafts here is simply indescribable; it’s simply impossible to leave the market without buying something.

A very interesting attraction is Le Jardin du Roi. This spice garden was founded in 1772. It has successfully preserved to these days together with the nearest estate of colonial times. The mansion was completely renovated; there’s a small local restaurant, a gift shop and a museum exhibition devoted to local painters of 18th-19th centuries.

The unique Morne Seychellois reserve is situated to the north of the island; hiking there is very popular among tourists. A significant portion of the protected areas are occupied by virgin rainforests. During a tour travelers will have an opportunity to admire rare species of trees and shrubs, as well as to appreciate unique landscapes, which have remain unchanged for many hundreds of years. Numerous buildings of colonial age are situated on Mahe Island; one of the most amazing buildings is Lenstiti Kreol .

There are more than 70 beaches on Mahe Island. Travelers will also find numerous centers specializing in water sports. Local beaches are ideal for sunbathing, but they are also suitable for snorkeling, surfing, and scuba diving. Every day, vacationers are welcome to participate in fabulous excursions, yacht and boat rides. Beau Vallon remains the largest beach of the island. During the daytime, it is a calm place, but when it is getting dark, the beach turns into a large open-air disco. There is a beautiful coral reef not far from the coast, so divers are also among frequent guests of Beau Vallon.

Grand Anse is, without a doubt, one of the most picturesque beaches of the island, but that is not the only advantage of that place. There is a horse riding center not far from the beach. The center works every day, offering horse riding lessons to visitors. There are several beautiful uninhabited islands close to Mahe Island, and it is easy to reach them in a moat boat. Many visit these islands to relax on gorgeous wild beaches. These islands are also suitable for hiking and exploring exotic local nature. Fans of privacy and seclusion usually love such wild beaches as Anse Soleil and Petite Anse. The beaches are hidden by dense palm tree groves, but it is possible to reach them in a boat or an SUV.