Seychelles

The Seychelles are remarkable in many ways. We spent almost two weeks on the islands over Christmas and New Year, dividing our time between beaches, short hikes and exploring some of the local sights. 

The islands themselves have an unusual origin. The inner Seychelles are the only mid-ocean islands made of ancient continental granite, formed when the supercontinent Gondwana separated. This geological history explains the massive boulders seen on many beaches and the distinct topography across Mahé, Praslin and La Digue. The isolation has also allowed unique species to develop, including the Aldabra giant tortoise and the coco de mer palm, known for producing the world’s largest seed. 

Human settlement in the Seychelles began relatively late. The islands were uninhabited until the mid-18th century, when the French established the first permanent population. The British took control in the early 19th century, and the cultural landscape today reflects African, European and Asian influences, most clearly visible in Creole cuisine, language and architecture. 

During our stay, most days were spent on the beaches — the main feature of the islands — with warm, calm water. We also completed a number of hiking routes, which provided access to viewpoints, coastal paths and inland forest areas. Many trails are well maintained and offer a straightforward way to see the islands’ natural diversity without needing extensive equipment or preparation. 

Overall, the combination of geology, biodiversity and accessible nature makes the Seychelles stand out in a very clear, factual sense. It is simply one of the most beautiful places I’ve visited.