Far from any continental land mass, the islands of Seychelles have long been likened to a string of pearls set in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean.

The history of Seychelles could have come straight out of a story book: a legend of courageous explorers, fearsome pirates and fierce battles for the islands’ bountiful treasures.

Seychelles is a land of colourful contrasts: a sudden up-thrust of granite in the middle of a beach or a bleached granite rocks standing out from the sea like the peaks of a sunken mountain range or the shadow of lush tropical vegetation clinging to steep mountain sides. The people of the islands reflect these same contrasts.  British and French seamen, freed African slaves, Indian and Chinese merchants make a description of a typical Seychellois almost impossible. However they have a gentle and pleasant nature, combined with a character as friendly and lovely as their island home.

Mahé, the main island of Seychelles, is absolutely one of the most amazing and extraordinary in the world. Each of its 70 beaches has a different character: ideal for swimming and snorkelling, there are long beaches such as Anse Marie-Louise or many small beaches, some of which you can call your own at times. And considering its mountainous interior with lush vegetation, it is no suprise that the island’s original name was "Ile d’Abondance".

The second-largest island of Seychelles is Praslin, about 40 kilometres from Mahé.  This island is not as mountainous as Mahé but it has similarly wonderful granite outcrops surrounded by lovely beaches and a coral reef enclosing the crystal-clear waters, which are so characteristic of the archipelago.

La Digue is the third-largest island: the velocity of life is slow, about the same speed as its usual way of transport, the ox cart. Very few cars are allowed on the island and bicycles are popular. Also this island is noted for its excellent beaches. Among the birds you will encounter is the unique Seychelles paradise flycatcher, the symbol of this island.

Not to be forgotten: Silhouette, a place for walkers because there are no roads; Cerf, home to giant tortoises and flying foxes (fruit bats); Cousin, a nature reserve and a haven for all types of birds; Moyenne, where it is reputed that a enormous pirate treasure is hidden; Round, small island open for underwater exploration as it is particularly rich in fish and marine life; Curieuse, known for its red earth, now it is strictly protected as part of the Marine Park; Denis, popular with deep-sea anglers pursuing barracudas, sailfish, dorados; Bird Island, the second ornithological wonder; Aride, the most northerly granitic island; Frégate, the most isolated and known for the most romantic associations with the world of pirates and hidden treasure; Sister Island, a private paradise off Praslin who can be visited only a few days per week upon reservation.

Mahé Island	Praslin Island