Mahé Island
Mahé is the largest island in Seychelles and home to the international airport and the capital, Victoria
Measuring some 28 kms long, and up to 8 kms wide, the island is home to almost 90% of the Seychelles population. The island is granitic in origin with 1000m peaks providing an impressive backdrop. The French first colonised the island in the mid-18th Century, after which the British ruled until independence in 1976.
Victoria is a rather quaint town, built around the harbour area on the north-east side of the island. There are numerous craft shops, art galleries, and the colourful market where fresh fish, fruit and vegetables, and spices are for sale. On the outskirts of town are The Botanical Gardens which cover some 5 acres of tropical garden as well as some Aldabra tortoises. The Natural History museum in town is also worth a visit.
The Morne Seychelles National Park has an extensive network of walking trails which allow you to enjoy views of both sides of the island. The trails will also give you a good opportunity to see the endemic plant and birdlife of the island.
There are many different hotels on Mahé, though it is hard to find good quality boutique options. Beau Vallon Bay in the north-west is the busiest beach area and is probably the best place to go if you want to get out and about and see some of the island. Along the west coast there are various bays and beaches where lovely hotels have been developed.