Flights to Mahe (SEZ)

Mahé is the largest island in the Seychelles archipelago, hosting an easy-going capital city and a magnificent selection of beaches.

Encircled by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, Mahé is famed for its thriving sea life and natural beauty. Victoria, the world’s smallest capital city, is backdropped by rolling hills and an ideal starting point with its charming, laid-back atmosphere. Wander through Sir Selwyn Clarke Market, a vibrant collection of stalls where fresh produce is sold alongside local crafts. From Victoria, you can catch a ferry from Inter-Island Quay and travel to the archipelago’s other idyllic islands.

The tropical city’s streets are a mosaic of history and culture. Its striking white clock tower (known in Creole as Lorloz) and the Seychelles Natural History Museum offer a fascinating window into the past. A short journey from the city centre, the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens is a magical cluster of endemic trees and plants. Stroll through this tranquil haven to spot the rare coco de mer palm and discover a group of majestic giant tortoises.

On Mahé, a trip to the beach is almost compulsory given its exquisite shoreline. The palm-fringed Beau Vallon Beach is the most popular, and a lively hub that serves as a launchpad for an array of water sports. Head to the south-west end of the beach for the best snorkelling, and discover an extraordinary underwater world where puffer fish, manta rays and turtles glide above astonishing coral reefs. The island is also famed for its dramatic granite boulders, which add a striking contrast to the soft sands and turquoise waters. These natural sculptures are iconic features of Mahé's landscape and make for a memorable backdrop to the best sunsets on the island.

Mahé’s forest-shrouded interior is best explored with a drive along Sans Souci Road, a meandering route that traverses the centre of the island. Make several stops to take in panoramic views of both coastlines and trek along secluded mountain trails. Visit the Seychelles Tea Factory too for an engrossing insight into tea-making before sampling a cup on a terrace overlooking Port Glaud.

Aside from local tea, there are a host of tantalising delicacies to try when visiting Mahé. Indian influence is apparent across the island, and delectable seafood curries are commonplace. Coconut-based octopus curry is one particularly esteemed dish, while ladob is a tasty dessert of plantains and breadfruit made with local coconut milk.