Holiday Destination - The Seychelles Islands

The Seychelles were uninhabited throughout most of recorded history. Some scholars assume that Austronesian seafarers and later Maldivian and Arab traders were the first to visit the uninhabited Seychelles. The earliest recorded sighting by Europeans took place in 1502 by the Portuguese Admiral Vasco da Gama, who passed through the Amirantes and named them after himself (islands of the Admiral). The earliest recorded landing was in January 1609, by the crew of the "Ascension" under Captain Sharpeigh during the fourth voyage of the British East India Company.

A transit point for trade between Africa and Asia, the islands were occasionally used by pirates until the French began to take control starting in 1756 when a Stone of Possession was laid by Captain Nicholas Morphey. The islands were named after Jean Moreau de Séchelles, Louis XV's Minister of Finance. The British controlled the islands between 1794 and 1810. Jean Baptiste Quéau de Quincy, French administrator of Seychelles during the years of war with the United Kingdom, declined to resist when armed enemy warships arrived. Instead, he successfully negotiated the status of capitulation to Britain which gave the settlers a privileged position of neutrality. Britain eventually assumed full control upon the surrender of Mauritius in 1810, formalised in 1814 at the Treaty of Paris. Seychelles became a crown colony separate from Mauritius in 1903. Elections were held in 1966 and 1970.

Officially called the Republic of Seychelles, it is an archipelago in the Indian Ocean. The 115-island country, whose capital is Victoria, lies 1,500 kilometres (932 mi) east of mainland East Africa. Other nearby island countries and territories include Comoros, Mayotte, Madagascar, Réunion and Mauritius to the south. Seychelles, with a population of 90,024, has the smallest population of any independent African state; however, it does have a larger population than the UK overseas territory Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha.


Life in the Seychelles islands is characterised by majestic seascapes, unparalleled beauty and temperate weather. These are just some of the many factors that make this nation such a sought-after paradise for holidaymakers and investors alike. In addition to immaculate white sands and welcoming waters, this spectacular country is also home to a vibrant diversity of cultures.

With its breath-taking combination of sights and sounds, this cosmopolitan destination is a feast for the senses and provides the perfect setting for an exotic island retreat. For those who dream about relaxing in comfort and luxury, the Seychelles islands provide countless opportunities for rest and tranquillity. Additionally, this idyllic nation caters for discerning thrill-seekers who travel the globe in search of incomparable diving and sailing opportunities.

When it comes to accommodation, Seychelles boasts some of the finest island getaways on the market. 

5 TOP ATTRACTIONS OF THE SEYCHELLES ISLANDS

• Sailing – The azure Seychelles oceans are world famous and provide countless opportunities for unforgettable sailing. The archipelago consists of a myriad of channels and safe moorings in diverse locations, which means that it’s ideal for leisurely chartered cruises or boat tours.
• Diving – Experience an incredible variety of marine life beneath the balmy ocean surface. These warm safe waters are home to a vibrant array of fish, turtles and coral, providing snorkelers and scuba divers with unparalleled opportunities to view endemic species.
• Fishing – Seychelles hosts a number of well-attended annual fishing tournaments. Big-game and fly-fishermen gravitate towards these waters as they’re rich in prize catches and the beautiful tranquil environment adds to any angling adventure.
• Island hopping – Seychelles is a melting pot of cultures and its 116 landmasses each has its own charm and unique allure. Whether you’re fascinated by architecture or nature, you’ll find a wealth of inspiring discoveries by venturing to the different islands.
• Beach combing – Stroll along the many truly magnificent coastlines of this island nation, or relax on their soft sands. Any Seychelles experience is incomplete without an exploratory foray into the distinctive rocky shores and immaculate white beaches.

Culled and edited. Images: Google