PRASLIN: THE ROMANTIC HEART OF THE SEYCHELLES

Praslin is the most tourist-friendly island in the Seychelles—but in the best possible way. While it doesn’t suffer from mass tourism, it does offer a wider selection of charming bars, cozy restaurants, and stunning hotels compared to its sister islands.

This island strikes the perfect balance between comfort and natural beauty. Whether you're sipping cocktails by the beach, dining under the stars, or waking up in a luxurious resort surrounded by palm trees, Praslin sets the stage for romance and relaxation.

Curious to know more? Keep reading for a deeper dive into the most enchanting island of the trio.

THE TOP HIGHLIGHTS OF PRASLIN

1. Wander Through Anse Volbert village

Anse Volbert village is a charming little village on Praslin, perfect for a relaxed afternoon. Along the beach, you’ll find cozy bars where you can sip a drink with your feet in the sand and enjoy the laid-back island vibe.

Take a leisurely stroll along the stunning, long stretch of white sand—and don’t forget to stop by the famous leaning palm tree for that classic tropical photo. It’s one of those postcard-perfect moments you’ll want to capture.

2. Hike from Anse Lazio to Anse Georgette

Here’s another stunning beach-to-beach hike—though this one’s a bit more challenging than the trail on La Digue. Be sure to bring plenty of water and a snack, as the one-way journey takes about two hours.

Start by walking across the beautiful Anse Lazio beach, passing the main stretch and a few smaller coves. Then the climb begins: a steady uphill trek that lasts around 45 minutes. The path is wide and clearly marked, making navigation easy.

Near the top, you’ll briefly join a paved road—just for a few meters—before turning into the jungle. From here, the trail narrows and winds through dense vegetation. Expect about another hour of walking before you reach Anse Georgette.

This beach is absolutely gorgeous, perfect for a few hours of rest. However, the sea here is much rougher, so snorkeling isn’t recommended. And if you were hoping for a secluded spot, you might be disappointed—since it’s accessible by car, you’ll likely share the beach with other visitors.

The return route follows the same path back. Once you arrive at Anse Lazio again, don’t miss the chance to cool off with a refreshing swim. And if you peer between the rocks, you might just spot a few sea turtles lounging in the shallows.

3. Take a Walk Through Vallée de Mai

Located in the heart of Praslin, Vallée de Mai is a lush, ancient forest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This dense slice of nature is home to the legendary coco de mer palm and a rich variety of endemic wildlife.

You can choose to explore the reserve on your own or join a guided tour. If you're curious about the unique flora and fauna, a guided walk is highly recommended—local guides share fascinating insights that bring the forest to life. Prefer a quiet, self-paced stroll? No problem. The well-maintained paths make it easy to navigate, and getting lost is virtually impossible.

Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful escape, Vallée de Mai offers a magical experience in one of the world’s most pristine ecosystems.

4. Book a Day Trip to Curieuse and St Pierre Island

Another island, another boat adventure! If meeting giant tortoises is on your bucket list, this is the excursion for you. Curieuse Island, just off the coast of Praslin, is home to dozens of these gentle giants—and they’re the only permanent residents!

Your first stop is Curieuse, where the tortoises greet you as if you were old friends. They’re completely used to visitors and might even wander over for a friendly pat. After your tortoise encounter, you’ll continue on foot across the island. Once you reach the beach, you’ll have time for a refreshing swim before enjoying a delicious beachside barbecue.

In the afternoon, the boat takes you to St Pierre Island for snorkeling. Prepare to be amazed once again by the vibrant underwater world—colorful fish, coral formations, and crystal-clear waters make this a perfect end to a magical day.

HOTEL AND RESTO TIPS

Our hotel stay

During our time on Praslin, we stayed at Les Lauriers Eco Hotel—and it was truly a highlight of the trip. This beautiful hotel offers spacious rooms, a lovely pool, and a peaceful atmosphere just steps from the beach. The breakfast was fresh and varied, perfect to start each day, and the on-site restaurant is simply outstanding—arguably the best dining experience in all of the Seychelles. If you’re not staying here, it’s still worth visiting just for the food and the stunning setting. Les Lauriers is a top recommendation for anyone looking to combine comfort, charm, and culinary delight on Praslin.

Tried and tasted: Restaurant tips

When it comes to food recommendations, I like to keep things real. The restaurants listed below aren’t just random picks—they’re places we actually visited and genuinely enjoyed. Each one offered something special, whether it was the atmosphere, the flavors, or the warm hospitality.

So if you’re looking for spots that are truly worth your time (and appetite), these are our personal favorites—and absolute must-tries.

Les Lauriers Eco Hotel Even if you’re not staying here, make sure to dine at their restaurant—it’s a true culinary highlight. The food is incredibly fresh and flavorful, served in one of the most beautiful settings on the island. Honestly, it’s one of the best dining experiences in all of the Seychelles.
Ma’s Take-away “Don’t judge a book by its cover” perfectly sums up this hidden gem. From the outside, it looks modest and isn’t exactly cozy for dining in. But the food? Absolutely delicious. Grab your meal to go and enjoy it at a scenic spot nearby. Bonus: the menu changes daily, so you’ll always find something new to try.