Seychelles: Romantic Archipelago

With a mix of rocky islands and tropical atolls, the Seychelles archipelago is one of the most alluring and diverse tropical island destinations in the world. Situated some 1,000km to the east of Somalia in the western Indian Ocean, it’s an idyllic honeymoon destination replete with palm-fringed beaches lapped by the warm tropical waters of the Indian Ocean.

The most popular destinations are located on the larger islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue, whilst those seeking near isolation can choose from a host of private island resorts.

Mahé island is renowned for its outstanding beach resorts, and few impress more than the Banyan Tree Seychelles and the Four Seasons Resort Seychelles. Set against a tropical backdrop with silky white sand beaches, both boast stylish sophistication along with first-class facilities, exemplary service and fabulous cuisine. 

Exclusive and boasting unmatched privacy, North Island Seychelles is just 20 minutes by helicopter from Mahé. This gorgeous private island resort is where honeymooners can expect indulgent levels of service, lavish accommodation, and a pristine environment.

The geology of the Seychelles has given rise to an incredible diversity of flora and fauna and some truly remarkable landscapes. Heavily protected, it has become a haven for endangered species. Check out Morne Seychellois National Park on Mahé, famous for is rocky outcrops and unique wildlife, or Aldabra Islands, home to the amazing Aldabra giant tortoise.  

For ornithologists, a pilgrimage to Aride Island is a must. Just 9km north of Praslin, the elevated and heavily wooded topography, granite cliffs and shallow waters are teeming with birdlife. For snorkellers, the warm clear waters are home to an array of intensely coloured reef fish and corals, as well as bigger aquatic beasts like the rare hawksbill turtle. 

The best diving is found around the 43 inner islands and there are numerous dive centres that cater to novice and experienced divers alike. You can opt for a private charter or join a group.   

A honeymoon in the Seychelles offers loving couples the opportunity to relax and immerse themselves in their blissful surroundings and indulge in the gastronomic excellence. The Seychelles attracts some of the best chefs in the world and many resort restaurants offer outstanding romantic dining. 

Favourites include Curieuse Restaurant at Raffles Seychelles, where Chef de Cuisine Sundar Rawat takes diners on a gastronomic journey through India, China, and Southeast Asia. For a more traditional dining experience try Marie Antoinette, a magnet for seafood lovers, and a must-visit place if you love spicy Creole Seychellois cuisine. 

Getting to the Seychelles is easy. Seychelles International Airport is located on Mahé and is served by most major airlines. What will you do when you get there? Well, that’s up to you. 

Seychelles

(seychelles.com)