With more than 115 islands to choose from, the Seychelles offer every budding Robison Crusoe the perfect backdrop for the escape of a lifetime

With its unspoilt bays, secret coves, stunning lagoons, magical turquoise waters and perfect opportunities for swimming, snorkeling or pure relaxation, the Seychelles is the destination for those looking for the ultimate beach holiday.

For naturalists, the Seychelles are a close cousin to the Galapagos. The 43 Inner Islands constitute the world’s oldest mid-oceanic granite islands, a sanctuary for some of the rarest species on Earth with unique endemic specimens such as the fabulous Coco-de-Mer, the largest seed in the world; the jellyfish tree, with only eight surviving examples; the Seychelles’ Paradise Flycatcher and the Seychelles Warbler.

The islands are also home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the world’s largest raised coral atoll Aldabra and Praslin’s Vallée de Mai, once believed to be the original site of the Garden of Eden.

Any real exploration of the islands begins with a panoramic flight into the main island of Mahé, home to the country’s capital, Victoria, and its satellites – Praslin and La Digue. Together they form the economic and cultural focal point of the nation and contain the majority of the Seychelles’ tourism information centres.

Exploring Victoria won’t take long – one of the smallest capitals of the world – but no visit is complete without a wander around the colourful Selwyn-Clarke Market and Bazaar. With numerous shops selling souvenirs, clothing and refreshing fruits, it’s a great place to soak up some traditional Creole atmosphere.

After all that shopping, don’t leave without paying a visit to the Zonm Lib Monument, which represents a major political landmark in the history of the Seychelles. Or if history isn’t your thing, then take a moment to discover the National Botanical Gardens, which house various local species of plants as well as other exotic fauna brought to the Seychelles by the country’s founders.

We’re pretty sure that you won't have travelled to the Seychelles for a traditional sightseeing holiday, though. Its the 72 further Outer Islands that most visitors will be making a beeline for while they are in the Seychelles, to explore their low-lying coral atolls and well-stocked reefs.

Make sure you visit the legendary Aldabra Atoll dive site – one of the world’s largest raised coral atolls, home to tiger sharks, manta rays and thousands of seabirds and also the original habitat of the giant land tortoise. Or why not take a fishing trip to discover some of the richest fishing grounds in the world and catch a few spectacular trophies?

Whatever you do, don’t leave the islands without taking a day trip out to Le Jardin du Roi or King’s Garden. This spice garden situated at Anse Royale beach, at the feet of Mont Gratte-Fesse, is bursting at the seams with 50 varieties of exotic plants and trees. It’s easy to spend an afternoon here soaking up the sights, smells and sounds of this lush tropical environment.

Alternatively, arrange a guided walk or trek on Mahé, Praslin, La Digue and Silhouette islands.

Trekking while you’re on holiday may sound too much like hard work, but it’s the best way to explore the natural beauty of these unique islands and discover some of the most endangered specimens on the planet.Try it and you’ll feel just like David Attenborough!

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Constance Ephelia Resort
Overlooking the marine national park of Port Launay, Constance Ephélia Resort enjoys a unique location set within 120 hectares of land surrounded by rare vegetation. This beautiful resort is located approximately 45 minutes from the airport and 50 minutes from Victoria.
Mustn’t miss: A night of live music at Zee Bar

Where to stay?

Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa
Situated on the north west coast of Mahé Island the Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort and Spa offers a retreat comprised completely of private villas perched on the hillside or nestled amongst secluded beach coves.
Mustn’t miss: A visit to the Dunlye Spa and a session at the yoga pavilion

Denis Private Island
A privately owned coral island, Denis is located on the edge of the Seychelles Bank, which plunges 2,000 metres into the Indian Ocean. Just a 30-minute flight from the Seychelles International Airport, the resort offers 25 villas and cottages.
Mustn’t miss: All the activities on offer from diving, snorkeling, canoeing around the island or a sunset cruise into the lagoon, big game fishing, bird spotting and nature walks

La Digue Island Lodge
La Digue Island Lodge stands alongside the Anse Reunion beach and is situated in a peaceful tropical garden of coconut palms, takamaka trees and a variety of flowering plants. The lodge is just a 15-minute flight from Praslin Island.
Musn’t miss: Taking a mountain trek
to Nid’Aigle

Four Seasons Resort Seychelles
Four Seasons Resort Seychelles is a hillside retreat that occupies an isolated position overlooking the idyllic bay of Petite Anse, just a 45-minute drive from the Seychelles International Airport and 45-minutes drive from Victoria.
Mustn’t miss: A visit to The Spa with fusion techniques from India and other Asian traditions