Mahé, measuring 28km long by 8km wide, is the largest island and cultural and economic hub of the Inner Islands, and the international gateway to Seychelles. It is home to the international airport and the nation’s capital, Victoria. The island is home to almost 90% of the total population (or approximately 72,200 people) reflecting Seychelles' diverse ethnicity and descent from African, Indian, Chinese and European populations, and is the seat of government and the chief centre of commerce.
Victoria, the capital, has many places of interest.
Its centre is marked by a statue of Queen Victoria after whom the town was named. Its traditional architecture and newly built shops, create a colourful mix of ancient and modern.
Shopping offers a contrast from the buzzing local market selling a variety of fresh produce and curios to small boutiques selling items of artwork and handicrafts.
Many classical Seychellois houses are dotted among the hills and along the coast, not least of which is State House, a fine example of colonial architecture.
The crafts village at Val des Pres brings together under one roof all the educational and cultural qualities of a tourist centre, evoking the island’s fascinating past.
The beaches of Mahe are, in themselves, enough to enthral the visitor.
Beau Vallon Bay is the resort centre of the island while the most ecluded beaches include Port Launay, Anse Takamaka, Anse Soleil and beautiful North East Point. Many quaint restaurants delight guests with typical Creole flavours.
Of historic interest is the Mission Lodge, the ruins of a school established for the children of the slaves.
First visited by the British in 1609, Mahé was not visited again until Lazare Picault's expedition of 1742 when the gradual process of settling the island began, first by the French whose direct influence continued until 1814 and then as a British colony until Seychelles gained independence in 1976.
