The Seychelles is one of the world’s most picturesque natural wonders, comprising 115 islands scattered across the Indian Ocean. Frequently a destination for those who are seeking the ultimate in seclusion and exclusivity, this pristine archipelago remains remarkably untouched by mass tourism. For those who want to understand the breadth of experiences that the islands have to offer, here are a few fun facts about the Seychelles.
Nearly Half of the Seychelles is a Nature Reserve
One of the most unique aspects of the Seychelles is its commitment to conservation. Almost 50% of its landmass is protected as nature reserves, making it one of the world’s most successful environmental conservation stories. The islands contain two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and several conservation societies that focus on protecting specific native species. This dedication ensures that its beaches, forests, and wildlife remain unspoiled.
Home to Record-Breaking Plant Life
One of the intriguing facts about the Seychelles is that it is home to the world’s largest seed. The Coco de Mer, or sea coconut palm, which is only found on two islands in the area, produces a seed that weighs an impressive 30 kg. The seed, which is known for its unique and somewhat provocative shape, has become a tongue-in-cheek symbol of the archipelago.
The Rarest Wildlife in the World
One of the islands in the Seychelles, appropriately known as Bird Island, hosts a large species of migratory birds and the world’s heaviest living tortoise. Other species of wildlife found across the islands include the Seychelles giant tortoise and the rare Seychelles black. The archipelago’s waters are equally impressive, offering encounters with whale sharks, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life. Thanks to the conservation efforts of local and international activists, these magnificent creatures are all protected from the encroachment of human civilisation.
The World’s Smallest Capital
Victoria, located along one corner of Mahe, is the capital of the Seychelles and its largest city. In fact, Victoria is the only place on all of the islands that can properly be termed a ‘city.’ It is also considered to be the smallest capital city in the world and can be easily traversed on foot within a few hours. There are fewer than 30,000 inhabitants, and despite only having two traffic signals in the whole city, everyone gets around with complete ease.
Perfect Sailing Conditions
The Seychelles is a haven for all maritime enthusiasts. Unlike many other tropical islands, the archipelago is located outside of the cyclone belt, which makes it one of the safest and most scenic yachting destinations. Mahe, the largest island in the Seychelles, offers two stunning marinas and plenty of anchorage sites; it is also where the majority of yacht charters can be found. There are several natural harbours across the larger islands such as Mahe and La Digue, which have more granite than coral along their shorelines.
A Pristine Resort Getaway
For those seeking discretion and personalised service, Seychelles has some of the world’s most exclusive private island resorts from globally acclaimed brands such as Four Seasons, Hilton, and Anantara. Some islands only host a handful of guests at a time in order to minimise human activity and maintain the integrity of their natural environment. This also adds an extra element of privacy and exclusivity to each stay.
Among the many island destinations across the world, Seychelles is truly in a league of its own. It offers a varied investment portfolio with excellent benefits, provides unique hospitality experiences, and is a place where the preservation of natural beauty and wonder is woven into the fabric of the lifestyle.
