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© Creative Commons / Olivier Cochard-Labbé's

Seychelles beaches

Lush vegetation, pristine white and gold sand beaches, an archipelago of 115 tropical islands and the azure waters of the Indian Ocean combine to produce the stunning canvas of the Seychelles; a living paradise that has appositely been dubbed 'another world' by the islands' tourist office. Holidaying in the Seychelles is all about luxury, nature and relaxation. Exclusive resorts ease holidaymakers into an enchanting world inhabited by roaming tortoises, marine turtles, nesting sea birds and hundreds of species of tropical fish. An idyllic retreat where the stresses of everyday life dissolve as you sunbathe on a secluded beach, explore nature trails, cycle through coconut groves, or discover an underwater wonderland as you snorkel or scuba-dive. Island marinas, sailing dinghies, windsurfs, pedalos and canoes also mean that visitors can get active on the captivating turquoise lagoons.

Beach

Exquisite fluffy white or gold sand beaches, fringed by palm trees and caressed by the warm turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean are the signature of the Seychelles' resorts. Sun loungers, parasols and a host of watersports, that run the gamut from canoeing and snorkelling to windsurfing and scuba diving, transform the beaches into luxurious playgrounds for holidaymakers.

Beyond the beach

Most resorts organise deep-sea fishing trips. Experienced anglers can enjoy the thrill of catching a diverse range of big game fish like swordfish, marlin, barracuda and wahoo, while novices are given expert tuition and advice. Bird watching, glass bottom boat trips in the Mahe Marine national Park and luxurious spas are other distractions for holidaymakers away from the beach.

Family fun

Many of the hotels and resorts in the Seychelles have been built with families in mind, with kids clubs complementing a broad range of land and sea based activities. Child-friendly restaurants and doorstep beaches complete the appeal.

Exploring further

Victoria on the island of Mahe is one of smallest capital cities in the world. This compact conurbation, dramatically set between the mountains and the sea, is best explored on foot. This gives holidaymakers a chance to mingle with the locals at the daily market. The Victoria Clock Tower (which looks like a miniature Big Ben) and the botanical gardens are also highlights. Take a trip around the resort island to really appreciate Mahe's stunning natural environment.

Splashing out

Make the most of the facilities at your resort and take a certified PADI diving course. Angel Fish Dive Centre on Mahe (Roche Caiman) offers courses for beginners (www.dive-angelfish.com). Alternatively, catch tropical game fish on a deep-sea fishing trip, indulge in a relaxing massage, or enjoy a no-expense spared meal and make a romantic candlelit dinner truly memorable.

Visa and passport information is updated regularly and is correct at the time of publishing. You should verify critical travel information independently with the relevant embassy before you travel.