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Attractions - Mahe
Bel Air Cemetery
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : National Monument
Address : Bel Air, Mahé
The Bel Air Cemetery, undoubtedly the oldest historic site in Seychelles, was the first official burial ground to be opened on Mahé soon after the establishment of the French settlement in the late 18th century.
Important historical milestones, the cemetery’s tombs, vaults and shrines contain the remains of some of the islands’ most famous personalities such as corsair Jean-Francois Hodoul and the 9ft giant Charles Dorothée Savy, poisoned at the age of 14 by neighbours fearful of his height.
Another character whose remains lie within the cemetery is the mysterious Pierre-Louis Poiret, claimed by some to be the son of Louis XVI who fled the French Revolution and took refuge in Seychelles.
It is also a final resting place of a son-in-law of Quéau de Quinssy, a magistrate, an acting civil commissioner and a district magistrate who lie among other recently rediscovered graves once covered by the great landslide of 1862.
Bicentennial Monument - mahe
Bicentennial Monument
Details
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : National Monument
Address : Victoria, Mahé
Description
They are plain and simple, three pairs of extended white wings in masonry, standing on the roundabout at the 5th of June and Liberation Avenues. Conspicuous as they are, they invariably leave visitors guessing at the significance of such a graceful piece of geometry.
This is the Bicentennial monument, referred to in Creole as the Moniman trwa lezel (three–winged monument). It was erected in 1978 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the town of Victoria, which was founded as L’Établissement du Roi in 1778 by the Frenchman Charles Routier de Romainville. The monument was created by the late Italian artist Lorenzo Appiani, who lived in Seychelles.
The three wings represent the origins of the Seychellois people, who can best be described as a happy blend of the ethnic groups of three continents: Africa, Europe, and Asia. The wings may also symbolize the first discoverers of the islands. Birds, of course.
(Text taken from the book "Discovering The National Monuments of Seychelles", and is used by permission from The National Heritage.)
Cathedral of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : Religious site
Address : Diocese of Port Victoria, Olivier Maradan Street, PO Box 43, Victoria, Mahé
Tel : +248 4 32 26 52
Fax : +248 4 32 14 64
Email : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Description
This imposing Cathedral is the Mother Church of the Catholic Diocese in Seychelles. Constructed on the site where Father Leon of Avanchers built the first vault in March 1851 that was devoted to the Virgin of the immaculate conception, the Cathedral is one of the first churches in Seychelles.
The first and only Seychellois Bishop, Felix Paul, who passed away on the 21st November 2001, is buried inside the cathedral in a tomb built in the flooring. The tomb is not visible but its location is marked by a special plaque.
The Cathedral has undergone numerous renovations over the years. In 1993-94 it was completely renovated, except for the external walls. The last renovation was completed In 1995 when Seychellois sculptor, Egbert Marday fashioned the tabernacle and the carved doors.
Masses are held daily at the following times:
Mon-Tues: 0615hrs-0700hrs
Wed: 0615hrs-0700hrs and 1215hrs-1300hrs
Thurs-Fri: 0615hrs-0700hrs
Sat: 1700hrs-1800hrs
Sun: 0700hrs-0800hrs and 0900hrs-1000hrs
Cousin Island Special Reserve - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : Nature Reserve, Eco tourism site
Address : PO Box 1310, Roche Caiman, Mahé
Tel : +248 4 60 11 00
Fax : +248 4 60 11 02
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Website : www.natureseychelles.org
Description
Cousin is a superb example of an eco-tourism site and is one of the world's very first island reserves. This granite island was first created a nature reserve in 1968 by the International Council for Bird Preservation (now Birdlife International) to protect the tiny endangered population of Seychelles Warblers.
The entire island, including the reef around it to a distance of 400m, is a Special Reserve. Managed by Nature Seychelles (formely Birdlife Seychelles), a local non-profit non-governmental organisation.
Cousin is an island totally reserved for conservation and the only granitic island in Seychelles totally rehabilitated with natural vegetation. It is one of the best protected sites for nesting Hawksbill turtles in the world and boasts the highest density of lizards per hectare in the world.
Cousin is visited by 300,000 nesting seabirds each year and is home to five endemic land birds. It also has the best protected and most diverse fish population of any reserve in the granitic islands.
Price: Landing Fee: SCR500
Opening hours:
The Reserve is open for a half-day tour from Mondays to Fridays, from 0930hrs-1200hrs.
All boats must arrive on Cousin Island at 0930hrs for the tour, where the Cousin staff will start with the disembarkation of visitors to the island (boats are allowed to moor at maximum distance of 200m from the island). Embarkation after the tour starts around 1200hrs.
Domaine de Val des Près (Craft Village) - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : National Heritage Site, National Monument, Eco tourism site
Address : PO Box 1383, Au Cap, Mahé
Tel : +248 4 37 61 00 / 4 37 62 79
Description
Domaine de Val des Près (Craft Village) forms part of the Patrimwann. Experience traditional Creole culture showcased at Domaine de Val des Près. Or, make your own history by getting married, Creole-style on this beautiful property.
Domaine de Val des Près consists of five attractions highlighting Creole architecture, arts and craft, and gastronomy: the ‘Gran Kaz’ Plantation House built around 1870; 'La Kaz Rosa' a typical 20th century working class home, 12 craft workshops that host local crafts; and finally; the ‘Maison de Coco, a house built of coconut products in which you will find gifts made from all things coconut.
Price: Free entrance to the village.
Opening hours:
Mon-Fri: 0800hrs-1600hrs (Village)
Mon-Fri: 0900hrs-1700hrs (Craft Workshop)
Domaine Val De Pres
The Domaine de Val des Près which is located at St Roch Au Cap, 16 km from Victoria is an experiment in re-creating the Traditional Creole Village as a mean of promoting the Seychellois Cultural Heritage, depicting the various activities that may be found in a traditional estate.
Centred around the Maison de Planteur, or the house of the plantation owner with its outside peripherals such as traditional kitchen, servant’s quarter and other amenities pertinent to the colonial era of the 18th - 19th century, this showcase of traditional Seychellois life in the early days of the history of Seychelles, is an example of the ways in which the culture of Seychelles may be seen today.
In addition, Domaine De Val Des Pres houses a famous traditional restaurant,the Pomme Cannelle, and (12) twelve artisanal kiosks, designed and built using architectural elements that blend well with the main plantation house.
Domaine de Val des Près has the mandate to provide a showcase of inherited cultural aspects of the Seychellois life style of the days gone by and to preserve such nostalgia for the ageing generation and for the benefit of the upcoming generations, in order to grasp and appreciate the value of our Seychellois Cultural Heritage
Domaine de Val des Près estate Plantation house was built around 1870. The gigantic timber house which once belonged to the Bailey family was sold to the government in 1972.
In 1926, Dr John Thomas Bradley (1872-1942) who was then chief medical officer of health in Seychelles gave the house to his daughter Dolly in 1920 who had married Douglas Bailey (1899-1974) a wealthy Anglican and fervent supporter of the Anglican Church in Seychelles. He was employed by the Eastern Telegraph Company. He was also a nominated member of the Legislative Council for 28 years. In the 1950’s Douglas Bailey bought the other nearby plantation house used today as the Creole Institute at Au Cap. The couple made generous donations towards the construction of many Anglican churches in Seychelles.
Plans to create a craft village as a tourist educational and cultural centre dates back to 1977, but construction work started in 1985, after the government of the United States of America agreed to finance the project.
After a construction time of almost four (4) years, the craft village was completed, consisting of a totally refurbished traditional plantation house, 12 new craft kiosks to host the most important local craft and a restaurant that serves traditional dishes. The new buildings were designed in a style that matches well with the architecture of the Plantation House.
Although it has been extensively renovated and refurbished in the course of which modifications were necessary, the Plantation house has retained all the traditional aspects of the colonial plantation houses: the pitched roof, the dormer windows and garrets, the wide verandah that en compasses the entire quadrilateral structure of the building, and of course the obligatory masonry plinths on which it rests.
A covered walk way at the back of the house leads to the traditional kitchen where, besides the wood stove, many items evoked the culinary memories of yesteryear. There is the kokosye (the half of coco de mer nut in which rice was washed before being put in the cooking pot) the lavann (a flat basket of woven pandanus in which rice was winnowed) the kapatia (a basket of woven coconut fronds in which fruits and vegetables were kept) and of course the indispensable marmit (cooking pot made of cast iron). Anything and everything was cooked in the marmit.
There is a replica of the servant’s dwelling house. Built of timber on squat stone pillars, it is a modest structure in which the servant slept.
The wooden walls are entirely covered with pages of newspapers and magazines. The dwelling has three compartments: the small living room, the bedroom and the kitchen.
Over 10% of visitors, visiting our shores do pay a visit to this estate, thus getting the chance to experience this unique journey into a traditional Seychellois cultural setting. . This place offers Seychellois and visitors alike a nostalgic glimpse of traditional life of yester year. Once in the village, standing under the breadfruit tree, one can visualize workers husking coconut, women laying out cinnamon bark in the hot sun to dry and one hears the distant lowing and mooing of cows and almost savour salted fish curry cooked with coconut milk and smoked pork.
A place worth visiting for everyone.
(source: Seychelles Heritage Foundation)
Eden Art Gallery
Located at Eden Plaza on Eden Island.
The gallery is currently the biggest, most prestigious Contemporary art gallery in seychelles.
The gallery is owned by local artist, Camille Mondon, (he runs it together with his wife sandra) who also features other Seychellois and foreign artists. Bringing exquisite, contrasting original artworks to 'EDEN ART GALLERY' collection.
The gallery offers a continuous flow of magnificent viewing, water colour, oil, acrylic, mix media paintings, sculptures, objet trouve, can all be purchased at the gallery.
Visit Eden art gallery for an experience through Seychelles pulsating artworld.
Services Offered at Eden Art Gallery; Custom framing
Consultancy on artistic decoration.(artworks)
Grann Kaz - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : National Monument
Address : PO Box 1383, Au Cap
Tel : +248 4 37 61 00
Fax : +248 4 37 61 18
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Description
A traditional homestead that is in perfect condition, the Domaine de Val des Près recalls the simplicity and charm of Creole life as it was at the beginning of the 20th Century. Together with the adjoining buildings the homestead harmoniously displays an ensemble of original architectural features. The ‘Gran Kaz’ consists of a large sitting room, a dining room, three bedrooms and a surrounding verandah. This splendid house is sparsely furnished with a few period pieces. The adjoining buildings constitute a craft village where a group of 12 workshops provide traditional Seychelles crafts and a restaurant that offers the spicy delights of our Creole cuisine. This place offers visitors and residents a nostalgic glimpse of Creole life of yesteryears.
Text credit: National Heritage.
Hindu Temple - Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : Religious site
Address : PO Box 1193, Victoria, Mahé
Tel : +248 4 32 47 01
Description
The Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple is the only Hindu temple in the Seychelles. Built in 1992, the temple was named after Lord Vinayagar, the Hindu god of safety and prosperity.
Opening hours:
Mon-Sun: 0600hrs-1200hrs and 1700hrs-2100hrs
Kenwyn House - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : Art Gallery/Studio, National Monument, Speciality shop
Address : Francis Rachel Street, Victoria, Mahé
Tel : +248 4 22 44 40
Fax : +248 4 22 44 30
Description
One of Seychelles’ most renowned monuments, Kenwyn House is a must-see for visitors exploring the Seychelles capital Victoria.
An elegant example of French colonial architecture, Kenwyn House offers visitors a chance to explore this historic national monument while browsing a world-class selection of crafted South African diamonds and other precious gems at duty-free prices, as well as an array of gifts and souvenirs.
Visitors can also enjoy refreshments in its adjacent tropical garden and gaze at the work of top Seychellois artists in the Kenwyn House gallery.
The Diamond SA products are also available at the departure lounge of the International Airport on Mahé and at the Praslin Domestic Airport.
Opening hours:
Mon-Fri: 0900hrs-1700hrs
Sat: 0900hrs-1300hrs
Closed Sundays.
Kot Man-Ya Exotic Flower Garden - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : Eco tourism site
Address : Les Canelles, PO Box 436, Victoria, Mahé
Tel : +248 4 32 33 47 / 4 37 11 90 / 2 52 27 78
Description
Open to the public on 31st August 2008 after eight years in the making from scratch, Kot Man-Ya is part of the Anse Royale Ecotourism pilot initiative, administered under The Ecotourism Society of Seychelles (TESS), as called for by the SETS 21 – The Seychelles Ecotourism Blueprint for the 21st Century.
It is among the first steps in really bringing tourism activities to the community and offers a unique and different experience of Seychelles for discerning nature lovers and local flower enthusiasts alike.
With their ravishing elegance, sparkling colours, bold geometric lines and symmetrical perfection, the flower heads of exotic tropicals cater for the ultimate in floral brilliance.
“Tropicals” is presently the “in” word all across the globe. It includes Heliconia, Gingers, Anthuriums and miscellaneous such as Mussa Bananas, Costus, Calatheas and fanciful jungle foliage; e.g. Caladiums and Ti leaves. Originating from the South Central American Rain Forest, South East Asia and the South Pacific Islands, today tropicals are setting the scene for celebrations, as a way to express love, to say thank you or I am sorry. But above all they are simply there to lift the spirit in their natural state where whether young and old, each will find his or her own special delight at Kot Man-Ya in peace and tranquillity, of in a local community setting.
In addition to over 200 varieties of tropicals and orchids, Kot Man-Ya is also the sweet home of giant tortoises, guinea pigs, rabbits, green geckos, skinks and frogs. Other attractions include Birds such a the Seychelles Sun Bird, Barred Ground Doves, Madagascar Fody and other migratory species. Fruit trees and medicinal plants such as papaya, bread fruit, passion fruit, star fruit, yams, mangoes, bananas, bilimbi, curry leaves, lemon grass are also in abundance.
Prices:
Adults: SCR150
Children: SCR75
Opening hours:
Mon – Sun: 0800hrs- 1700hrs
To avoid overcrowding and possible damaging of the garden's precious plants, visiting groups are requested to make reservations beforehand.
Kreole Institute - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : National Monument, Eco tourism site
Address : Patrimwann: Au Cap, Domaine de Val des Près, Mahé
Tel : +248 4 37 63 51 / 4 37 57 43
Fax : +248 4 37 62 86
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Description
The Kreole Institue forms part of the Patrimwann. The Kreole Institute, established to promote Creole culture and tradition, was designed by a German architect, Leit, and constructed in 1920 by France Jumeau, a plantation owner at that time. Its former name was Maison St. Joseph. A large colonial house built in the French style, it reflects the opulence of the grand property owners of that era.
Activities that take place at the Kreole Institue include formal, traditional balls, traditional French song recitals, cultural exhibitions, language and literature workshops. It also houses a documentation centre.
Entrance: Free
Opening hours:
Mon-Fri: 0800hrs-1600hrs
La Bastille - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : National Monument
Address : Patrimwann: La Bastille, PO Box 573, Victoria
Tel : +248 4 32 13 33
Fax : +248 4 32 25 31
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Description
Just north of Victoria’s town centre, La Bastille was built by one Ange Pillieron after the design of Alfredo Leit. After passing out of the Pillieron family, it was in 1973 occupied by Survey Division followed by the Ministry of Education in 1975. From 1981 to the mid-1990’s it was home to the National Archives. Today, La Bastille fittingly houses the National heritage division of the Ministry of The Arts, Culture and Sports.
Opening hours:
Mon-Fri: 0800hrs-1600hrs
La Domus - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : National Monument, Religious site
Address : Olivier Maradan Street, PO Box 12, Victoria, Mahé
Tel : +248 4 32 26 52
Fax : +248 4 32 14 64
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Description
La Domus, the imposing residence of the Roman Catholic priesthood in Victoria, was an outstanding architectural achievement of its time.
Built in 1934 to house the Swiss missionaries ministering to the Diocese of Port Victoria, the magnificent two-storey building constructed from granite rocks even contains an aqueduct that supplies it with water from a nearby artesian well.
In the 1960’s it housed a dozen Capuchin missionaries. Today La Domus is occupied by only three priests with many of its rooms used as administrative offices. It stands in a quiet corner of Victoria, a poignant reminder of those days when there was no shortage of priests to disseminate the word of God among the islands.
Opening hours:
Mon-Fri: 0800hrs-1600hrs
La Plaine St. Andre - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : Historical site
Address : Au Cap, Mahé
Tel : +248 4 37 20 10
Fax : +248 4 37 21 33
Description
La Plaine. St. Andre is not just a great restaurant where you can discover our chef’s contemporary take on the most popular traditional creole classics.
The traditional plantation house, originally built in 1792, has been lovingly restored and now offers the perfect setting to relax, unwind and indulge yourself with our tantalising menu and cocktail list.
As the new home of Takamaka Bay Rum, no visit to La Plaine St. André would be complete without visiting the Trois Freres Distillery followed by a rum-tasting. Follow the process from cane crushing to fermentation, distillation and finally sample our award-winning range.
Take a tour of our grounds during which you will learn about plantation life in the 1790s, the beginnings of the creole mix which is visible today.
Visit our medicinal and herb garden, play a game of petanque or simply sit undisturbed in the shade of the Bilenbi tree avenue.
Opening hours:
Monday to Saturday
Restaurant & Bar: 1000hrs – midnight
Art Gallery & Boutique: 1000hrs – 1700hrsnTours of the Trois Freres Distillery, Grounds & Garden: 1000hrs – 1600hrs (On Saturdays by appointment only)
Closed: Sunday, Good Friday, Christmas and New’s Day
Le Grand Trianon Marie-Antoinette Restaurant - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : National Monument
Address : St. Louis, Mahé
Tel : +248 4 26 62 22 / 2 51 40 89
Fax : +248 4 26 65 05
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Description
The Marie-Antoinette is housed in a colonial mansion with unique creole architecture, and well over a hundred years old. The restaurant prides itself upon a time-honered menu that has remained at the same price since its first opening in 1972. It has won a number of local as well as international hospitality awards, whilst promoting traditional creole cuisnie dishes such as tuna steak, battered parrot fish, aubergine fritters, chicken curry, grilled fresh red snapper, fresh local salad, chutneys and local desserts featuring cocnut nougat banana caramel assorted local sorbets. The house which was the first convent in the Seychelles, is now a national moment.
Opening hours:
Monday – Friday for Lunch and Dinner
Closed on Sundays
Le Jardin du Roi - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : Historical site, Eco tourism site
Address : Domaine de L'enfoncement, PO Box 3037, Anse Royale, Mahé
Tel : +248 4 37 13 13
Fax : +248 4 37 13 66
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Description
Le Jardin Du Roi Spice Garden is in keeping with the original French tradition of the 18th century spice trade. From its location atop hills and across valleys, the garden boasts rows of vanilla vines, citronelle, cinnamon, nutmeg, pepper and other spices, as well as medicinal and endemic plants that offer a real experience of "nature at its best".
The spices, beautiful hand made candles and the medicinal plants, seldom seen in the world are also on sale at the Spice shop, which attracts people from all over the world.
Other buildings such as the old farm homestead still stands -- a pleasant reminder of yesteryears. The small museum houses interesting artefacts and documents on agriculture and history.
Visitors can tour at their leisure or for the more adventurous, guided mountain hikes can be organised on request 24 hours in advance.
Opening hours:
Mon-Fri 1000hrs-1730hrs
Mission Lodge - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : Historical site, Eco tourism site
Address : Seychelles Heritage Foundation, La Bastille, Ma Joie , Mahé
Tel : +248 4 22 52 40 / 4 22 45 42
Fax : +248 4 22 57 48
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Description
Situated just below the summit of Sans Soucis, the Mission Lodge affords one of the most extraordinary views of Mahé’s west coast. Once the site of a farm and boarding school for liberated slave children that opened in March 1876, it was first known as ‘Venn’s Town’ and then renamed ‘Capucin’.
In 1889, the number of pupils stood at 79 just before the project began to flounder. Today, ruins of ‘Venn’s Town’ can still be seen at the beginning of an avenue that leads to the viewing lodge that commands a breathtaking view of verdant mountainsides, and the vast azure ocean above which majestic tropic birds glide. Here, tranquillity and stunning natural beauty will conspire to win your heart.
There are no opening or closing hours however visits are encouraged during daytime.
Morne Seychellois National Park - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : Nature Reserve, Eco tourism site
Address : Seychelles National Park Authority, PO Box 1240, Laurier Avenue
Tel : +248 4 22 51 14
Fax : +248 4 22 43 88
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The Morne Seychellois Park is the largest in Seychelles and was created in 1979. It covers a total surface area of 3,045ha, more than 20% of the area of Mahé. It is 10km in length and between 2km and 4km wide and equipped with an extensively trail network covering more than 15km. A total of 12 different trails can be explored either by half or full day excursions.
The Praslin National Park is 338ha and was also designated in 1979.
Prices:
The trail is free of charge.
Brochures are on sale for SCR15, cash only.
National Museum of History - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : Museum, National Monument, Eco tourism site
Address : National Library Building, Francis Rachel Street, PO Box 720, Victoria, Mahé
Tel : +248 4 32 13 33 Ext 8179
Fax : +248 4 32 48 92
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The National Museum of History was established in 1964. The museum is charged with the acquisition, preservation and exhibition of historical artifacts for the public benefit.
Exhibits illustrating the history of Seychelles include such items as the oldest map drawn in 1517, the Stone of Possession, the world’s smallest statuette of Queen Victoria, and objects of ethnographical interest that exemplify the traditions and modes of life in times gone past.
Prices:
Entrance Fee per person:
Non-Resident: SCR15
Resident: SCR5
Primary school children and children under 12 years old: Free
Disabled: Free
Secondary and Post Secondary students with pass: SCR2
Opening hours:
Mon, Tues, Thu, Fri: 0830hrs-1630hrs
Wed: 0830hrs-1200hrs
Sat: 0900hrs-1300hrs
Closed, Sundays & public holidays
Patrimwann - mahe
Island : Mahé Type of Attraction : National Heritage Site
Address : Seychelles Heritage Foundation, La Bastille, Ma Joie, Mahé
Tel : +248 4 22 52 40
Fax : +248 4 22 57 48
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Patrimwann is the marketing umbrella-name that encompasses four of Seychelles' cultural attractions that highlight the country's Kreol heritage. All of the Patrimwann attractions are located on the island of Mahé. They include Kreol Institute, Domaine de Val des Près (Craft Village), La Bastille and the Ecomuseum (or Ecomusée La Planie St. Andre) which is currently under renovation. The word "Patrimwann" is a Kreol word meaning "Heritage Trail".
So, visit the Patrimwann attractions and immerse yourself in Seychelles' Kreol culture.
Port Launay Coastal Wetlands - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : Eco tourism site, Ramsar site
Address : Port Launay, Mahé
Seychelles first Ramsar site, designated on the 22nd of November 2004 is the "Port Launay Coastal Wetlands" (Port Glaud Wetlands), which has a surface area of 121 hectares in Port Glaud District. The Port Launay Coastal Wetlands is one of the best mangrove wetlands found on the main island, Mahé, supporting all seven species of mangrove in the region. The mangroves along the coast help to stabilize the shoreline, and the upland parts of the site, granitic areas with high drainage, play an important role in the local hydrology.
The coastal area provides ideal habitat for spawning, nursery, feeding and cover for fish, and is also home to some of Seychelles endemic species such as Goujon (Seychelles Killifish), and the freshwater fish Macanbale. The habitat provided by the site is believed to be important for the little-known Seychelles sheath-tailed bat, known from only four active cave-roosts, one of which occurs in the local area, and for the endemic Seychelles flying fox, both critically endangered species.
Feeder Rivers running into the wetland have several endemic crayfish. Fishermen use the site for octopus collection.
The site is often used for educational activities for school children, especially around World Wetlands Day.
Port Launay/ Baie Ternay Marine National Park - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : Marine National Park, Nature Reserve, Eco tourism site
Address : SCMRT-MPA Headquarters, PO Box 1240, Victoria, Mahé
Tel : +248 4 22 51 15 / (Ranger base) 2 51 72 06
Fax : +248 4 22 43 88
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Port Launay Marine National Park is famous for its whale shark sightings. In their season, these huge gentle giants of the sea can be seen swimming lazily around feeding on the rich plankton that accumulates in the park. The reefs on both sides of the bay provide a wonderful opportunity to use your mask and snorkel, while the beautiful sandy beach is quiet and inviting to both sun worshipers wanting to work on their tan or those who simply want to relax and read a book under the large shady Takamaka trees.
This park can be reached by land or sea providing great comfort after a morning of trawling in blue waters or hiking off the nearby Greater Morne Seychellois National Park.
Prices:
Entrance Fee:
~ Adults: SCR200
~ Children under the age of 12: Free
All non-resident adults entering the Marine National Parks must be in possession of a valid ticket purchased from one of the ticket outlets listed. Tickets must be retained and surrendered on requests to park rangers performing daily routine patrols.
Mooring Fee: Euro 10 per yacht applicable for overnight mooring.
Filming Fee: Euro 200 for film crews and professional photographers. However, written permission must be sought from the Management of the Marine Park Authority (MPA) prior to any commercial filming.
Opening hours:
All Marine National Parks are open daily, including public holidays.
TICKET OUTLETS:
Port Launay Ranger Base: 0900hrs-1700hrs daily
SCMRT-MPA HQ, Victoria: Mon-Fri 0800hrs-1600hrs
Seychelles National Archives - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : Museum
Address : National Library Building, Francis Rachel Street, Victoria, Mahé
Tel : +248 4 32 13 33
Fax : +248 4 32 24 81
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Website : www.sna.gov.sc
The National Archives of Seychelles is charged with preserving the wealth of Seychelles’ history and, specifically, is concerned with the storing and showcasing of valuable government records. The collection of Archives goes back as far as the early 1770’s when man first came to Seychelles. A vast collection of photographs of times gone by are also housed here.
Custodians of the soul of Seychelles’ history, our researchers are both friendly and efficient and will ensure that your visit to the National Archives will be both a pleasant and informative one.
Opening hours:
Mon-Fri: 0900hrs-1700hrs
Sat: 0830hrs-1200hrs
Closed Sundays
Seychelles National Botanical Gardens - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : National Monument, Eco tourism site
Address : Mont Fleuri, Mahé
Tel : +248 4 67 05 37 / 4 67 05 78
Fax : +248 4 32 51 47
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Located in Mont Fleuri, on the outskirts of Victoria, the Botanical Garden is one of Seychelles’ oldest National Monuments, dating back more than a century. It houses a wide collection of mature, exotic and endemic plants within five acres of landscaped and beautifully maintained tropical gardens.
Apart from the palms, the garden is home to a wide variety of spice and fruit trees most of which can only be seen in this garden. An added attraction is the population of giant tortoises from Aldabra, some of which are over 150 years old. Fruit bat colonies can be found feeding or roosting in the taller trees overhead and the latest feature is an orchid house which holds a collection of brightly coloured orchids including Seychelles’ own native orchids.
Entrance Fee: SCR100
Open daily: 0800hrs-1700hrs
Seychelles Natural History Museum - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : Museum, Eco tourism site
Address : Independence Avenue, Victoria, Mahé
Tel : +248 4 32 13 33
Fax : +248 4 32 48 92
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The Natural History Museum hosts exhibitions that not only illustrate the flora, fauna and geological history of Seychelles, but serve to enlighten visitors about major environmental concerns with the aim of promoting positive attitudes and actions in conserving our natural heritage.
Seven prominent aspects of Seychelles’ natural heritage are showcased through exhibits and dioramas, and the museum’s documentation/resource center contains a wealth of research material in various formats.
Entrance Fee:
Residents: SR 5.00
Non-Resident: SR 15.00
Children over 12 years and students: SR 2.00
Elderly Free
Opening hours:
Mon-Thurs: 0830hrs-1630hrs
Fri: 0830hrs-1200hrs
Sat: 0900hrs-1300hrs
Closed Sundays
Sir Selwyn Clarke Market - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : National Landmark
Address : Market Street, PO Box 166, Victoria, Mahé
Tel : +248 4 32 46 66
A visit to Mahé’s busy and colourful market is the way to get a feel for the Seychellois and their way of life. Built in 1840 and renovated in 1999, it remains the bustling heart of the capital and definitely the best place to buy fresh fruits, fish, vegetables and spices.
An attractive array of boutiques and shops selling a variety of souvenirs, clothing and local works of art further complement the lively atmosphere that is especially vibrant on Saturday mornings.
Opening hours:
Mon-Fri: 0700hrs-1730hrs
Sat: 0600hrs-1400hrs
Closed, Sundays & public holidays
St. Paul's Cathedral - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : National Monument, Religious site
Address : Revolution Avenue, Victoria, Mahé
Tel : +248 4 32 25 08
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A prominent landmark, St. Paul’s is both the Cathedral of the Diocese and the Anglican parish church of Victoria.
The original church, dedicated to St. Paul the Apostle and standing on the site of the present Cathedral, was consecrated on 14 May 1859 by the first Bishop of Mauritius, Vincent William Ryan. Over the years, the building has been extended twice, with a new tower in 1910, and with a relocated sanctuary in 1978.
Masses are held daily at the following times:
Mon: 1215hrs
Tues: 0630hrs
Wed: 0900hrs
Thurs: 0630hrs, 1200hrs and 1300hrs
Fri: 0630hrs
Sat: 1630hrs
Sun: 0700hrs and 0900hrs
Tea Factory - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : Tea factory, Eco tourism site
Address : PO Box 634, Sans Souci, Mahé
Tel : +248 4 37 82 21 / 2 71 50 56
Fax : +248 4 37 82 81 / 4 37 84 31
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Website : www.stcl.sc
Established in 1962, this unit is responsible for growing and manufacturing tea in the Seychelles. The Tea Factory enjoys a splendid panoramic view of the western slopes of Mahé and is undoubtedly one of the finest viewing points on the island.
Here, in the cool mountain air of Morne Blanc, amid terrace upon terrace of tea plants, you will discover, first hand, how Seychelles’ tea is made.
Prices:
Guided tour: SCR25.
Opening hours:
The factory is open Mondays to Fridays from 0700hrs-1600hrs.
The Sanctuary at Roche Caiman - mahe
Island : Mahé Type of Attraction : Nature Reserve
Address : PO Box 1310, Victoria, Mahé
Tel : +248 4 60 11 00 / 4 60 11 20
Fax : +248 4 60 11 02
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Website : www.natureseychelles.org
The Sanctuary is an artificial wetland site (2.9 ha) resulting from reclamation work done on the east coast of Mahé in 1986. It is situated between the Roche Caiman housing estate and the National Sports Complex and is the only urban wetland reserve in Seychelles. Plans to turn the site into a bird sanctuary began in 1987 and management of the site was given to a local NGO, the Nature Protection Trust of Seychelles (NPTS), in 1992. In 2002, the Government of Seychelles handed over the management of the sanctuary to Nature Seychelles, another local NGO, experienced in habitat and environmental conservation and the Wildlife Clubs of Seychelles.
The wetland is almost entirely fresh water. It contains areas of permanent deep water as well as temporary shallow water habitats. Many species of plants, birds, insects, amphibians, reptiles and other animals survive in and rely on the various habitat found within the sanctuary. It has attracted waders such as Green Shanks, Terek Sandpipers, Wimbrels, Yellow Bitterns, Black Crown Night Heron and Green Back Night Herons which have become regulars at the wetland.
The Roche Caiman Sanctuary provides an exciting focus for national conservation education and research facilities that will enable the public to explore and better understand the dynamics of a freshwater ecosystem.
The Sanctuary also boasts an information kiosk and a bird hide for the twin purpose of providing information and a good view of the wetlands faunal and floral spectacles.
Entrance fee and guided tour: SCR 25 per person.
Opening hours:
Mon-Fri: 0930hrs-1530hrs
Saturdays – Call in advance for special arrangement.
Victoria Clocktower - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : National Monument
Address : Victoria, Mahé
The Victoria Clocktower, or Lorloz as it is better known in Creole, is the most prominent feature of Seychelles’ small capital, and has acted as a focal point for nearly 100 years. While all around massive transformation has taken place in the town centre, with modern buildings of concrete and glass springing up, the Clocktower has remained virtually unchanged.
The Lorloz is an elegant replica of the clock that was first erected in London in 1897 at the junction of Victoria Street and Vauxhall Bridge Road, near Victoria Station. Seychelles' governor Sir Ernest Sweet-Escott, who had admired it during a visit to London, ordered a similar clock for Seychelles as a memorial to Queen Victoria, who died in 1901 after a reign stretching over 63 years. Made by Messrs Gillet and Johnson of Croydon, and paid for partly by public subscription, the clock was eventually erected in Victoria in 1903, the same year that Seychelles celebrated its new status as a Crown colony, administered directly by a governor appointed by London instead of from Mauritius.
Originally, the clock was expected to chime, but sadly failed to do so. Today, however, the Victoria clock regularly strikes the hour, having had its mechanism completely replaced in 1999 by a modern, quartz masterclock. The work was carried out by the original manufacturer, Gillett and Johnson, with the cost again being met in Seychelles partly by public donation.
The Clocktower is one of Seychelles' national monuments.
(Text taken from the book "Discovering The National Monuments of Seychelles", and is used by permission from The National Heritage.)
Zonm Lib or Liberation Monument - mahe
Island : Mahé
Type of Attraction : National Monument
Address : 5th June Avenue, Victoria
The "Zonm Lib" Liberation Monument represents a major political landmark in the history of Seychelles. To all Seychellois people who revolted against colonialist oppression and injustice on the 5th June 1977, it is a powerful symbol of La Liberté. Standing behind the People’s Stadium and facing the 5th June Avenue, the "Zonm Lib" is a metal statue in the form of a robust masculine figure with both arms raised high, its clenched fists freed from chains, demonstrating triumphant defiance and victory for a truly independent nation.