Best Natural Attractions in Seychelles – Gorgeous Tropical Sanctuaries

This is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island of Mahe. The crescent shaped beach is home to surfers who love the big swells and wild waves of the area. Although swimming is a bit tough there due to the non-existence of a natural reef, the beach is a favourite amongst beachcombers, photographers and the lazy sunbathers. The sandy shores are nesting grounds for turtles and are bordered by palm trees and a lush jungle.

Baie Lazare is a picturesque village named after the French explorer – Lazare Picault, who first set foot on these shores when exploring Seychelles. The Baie Lazare church, a neo-Gothic marvel dedicated to St Francis of Assisi is an iconic attraction there. From the location of the church you are afforded panoramic views of the surrounding area with Anse Soleil and Petite Anse being favourite beaches resplendent with sun kissed sands and glistening blue waters.

This is a gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage Site home to 4,000 species of the gigantic coco de mer fruit palm a tree that's distinctive to the Seychelles. Species to view include vanilla orchids, latanier, palmiste, Chinese palms and splayed travellers palm. Nature lovers and bird watchers should consider accommodation at one of the Seychelles resorts located close to the park for the place is home to a fabulous collection bird and plant species thriving beneath the verdant canopy of trees. Located quite close to the Berjaya Praslin Resort, the Valee de Mai National Park is home to a variety of lizard species and boasts sights of fruit pigeons, Seychelles bulbul and the black parrot – the national bird. Visitors can hike across the marked trail which is considered easy and takes around 45 minutes.

Located along the north western coast of Mahe, Beau Vallon is a beautiful curve of sand that attracts foreigners and locals. On the horizon you can see the glittering image of Silhouette Island while loads of fun water sports are on offer at this site. Indulge in jet skiing, water skiing and swimming. The sea around this beach is quite calm and is patrolled by lifeguards; attracting a lot of family vacationers.

Almost 20% of Mahe is given up to this national park, the largest in the Seychelles. The verdant sanctuary is home to the Morne Sychoilles mountain range housing the country's highest peak standing at an impressive 905 metres. From the village of Danzil you can take on a hiking trail into the depths of the park. The mountainous trails are quite a treat taking you across tea plantations with stunning views of Mahe's south-western coasts. You can also catch a glimpse of the Baie Ternay and Port Launay Marine Parks. To the northwest of the park is the lovely hamlet of Bel Ombre and alluring beach of Anse Major.