Monday, February 24, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Mahe, Seychelles

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Mahe, Seychelles, in the Indian Ocean

MAHÉ, SEYCHELLES
Cerulean seas, miles and miles of beach, lush, tropical jungle, and surreal, natural beauty as far as the eye can see.
Few places on Earth can claim to have been as blessed by nature as Mahé. Set in the remote Seychelles archipelago over 1,500 kilometers east of Mombasa, Mahé is the largest of the 115 islands and home to many stunning attractions you won’t know where to begin.

For many, the Seychelles are the destination of a lifetime. They boast Cerulean seas, miles and miles of beach, lush tropical jungle, and surreal natural beauty as far as the eye can see. Not only does Mahé boast 68 pristine beaches, but the towering peaks of the Morne Seychellois National Park dominate it. This splendid National Park covers over 20% of the island and is home to many endemic flora and fauna, including the ultra-rare Seychelles Scops-owl.

Unsurprisingly, the crystal clear waters are a diver’s heaven, promising a colorful cornucopia of underwater life, regardless of how experienced you are. Despite the island being visited in 1609 by the British, Mahé did not feature on any maps until 1742, when Frenchman Lazare Picault explored the as-yet-unnamed islands. However, it took 14 years for the French to lay claim to the islands, with the arrival of naval ship Le Cerf, captained by Corneille Morphey, who christened the archipelago after Vicomte Moreau de Sechelles. He did this by setting down a Stone of Possession on display in the National Museum. The first settlers arrived in 1770, and 15 years later, the population had swelled to 130 – 7 Europeans and 123 slaves. Today, there are 80,000 Seychellois.

SIGHTS
• Beau Vallon Beach
• Betite Anse
• Anse Intendance
• Seychelles National Botanical Gardens
• Moyenne Island
• Copolia Trail
• Victoria Market
• Takamaka Rum Distillery
• Morne Blanc
• Anse Royale Beach
• Anse Major
• Le Jardin Du Roi Spice Garden

SHOPPING
Shoppers can find a variety of goods, from fresh produce to vibrant clothing. Sir Selwyn Clarke Market, famous for its fresh seafood and handcrafted items, is another must-visit for authentic Seychelles souvenirs. Praslin Island offers a more laid-back shopping scene.

Today’s Excursion – A Moment in Time

We enjoyed the highlights of one of the world’s smallest capitals. Our tour began with the drive past Independence House, which
adjoins a large roundabout. A winged sculpture to commemorate Victoria’s bicentennial (1770-1970) can be viewed from the
coach. The town’s central point is the silver-coloured clock tower, erected in 1903 as a replica of the tower at London’s
Vauxhall Bridge. Around the clock tower cluster bank buildings, the colonial-style law courts, and the Anglican Cathedral. Then,
pass the National Museum, constructed in 1911 with an endowment from the British-born steel magnate Andrew Carnegie.
After driving up the spectacular Sans Souci Road, discover some of the island’s cinnamon plantations before reaching your first
stop.

Mission Lodge Ruins
Originally known as Venn’s Town, the site was established as a school for children of freed slaves. Ruins blanketed with tropical
greenery and a magnificent avenue of endemic trees are the only reminders of the school. While the children received a basic
education, the adults worked as laborers in the surrounding plantations. A brief walk lets you enjoy this beautiful setting.
Following your visit, a short drive brings you to the Tea Tavern, where refreshments are served. Then, continue the scenic drive
along lower Sans Souci Road, with views of mountain slopes covered with tea shrubs. Pass through the coastal villages of Port
Glaud and Grand Anse on the south coast travel through the dense vegetation of the La Misère Mountain Pass, enjoying more spectacular views of Victoria and the inner islands.

Botanical Gardens
On the return trip, visit these lovely gardens located at the southern edge of Victoria. The gardens are protected from
development by their status as a national monument. Your guide shows you a remarkable variety of rare and colorful plants,
including the endemic coco de mar, giant land tortoises, and fruit bats.