Baie Ternay

Baie Ternay lies at the westernmost point of Mahé and forms part of Baie Ternay Marine National Park, one of the oldest marine protected areas in the Seychelles, designated as early as 1979. The remote bay is reachable only via narrow hiking paths or from the sea and is therefore one of the most untouched stretches of coast on the main island. The coral reefs offshore at Baie Ternay are among the most species-rich of the inner Seychelles and host rare marine life such as sailfin grouper, triggerfish, and colorful schooling fish. Sea turtles and occasionally smaller reef sharks can also be observed here. On land stretches a dense forest of Takamaka trees and endemic palms in which the rare Seychelles bulbul also nests. The bay holds particular historical significance: during the Second World War it served as a secret anchorage for British submarine patrols. A small research station now monitors coral reef health.

Nearby cities

Port Launay

A picturesque spot in the west of Mahé, known for its marine national park and calm swimming waters.

Port Glaud

A quiet village on the west coast of Mahé, offering beautiful views of the offshore islands.

Foret Noire

A forested inland district through which the main road connecting Victoria and Port Glaud passes.

Aldabra Atoll

UNESCO World Heritage site and the world's second-largest coral atoll, home to giant tortoises.

Bel Ombre

A coastal village in the northwest of Mahé, the starting point for hikes to the secluded Anse Major beach.

Mare Anglaise

A residential area near Beau Vallon, popular with both locals and tourists.

Saint Louis

A steep hillside district in Victoria offering impressive panoramic views over the city and harbor.

Vista Do Mar

A quiet residential area in the Glacis district, known for its spectacular ocean views.

Fisherton

Fisherton is a historic coastal area in Ayrshire, Scotland, boasting dramatic views over the Firth of Clyde and rugged shores.

Grand Anse (Mahé)

A wide sandy beach and district on the west coast of Mahé, known for its impressive waves.

Anse Etoile

A populous district north of Victoria, overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Machabee

A quiet district on the northern coast of Mahé, known for its rugged coastline and clear water.

Anse Boileau

A quiet coastal village on the west coast of Mahé, nestled between mountains and the sea.

Brillant

A residential and industrial area located near the international airport on the east coast.

Au Cap

A scenic coastal stretch in the southeast of Mahé with shallow waters and coral reefs.

History & landmarks

Palais de Justice

The imposing Palace of Justice on Ile du Port houses the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal of the Seychelles.

St. Francis of Assisi Church

A distinctive Catholic church in Baie Lazare, known for its Gothic-inspired architecture and lush green setting.

Nature

Mare aux Cochons

An upland swamp and freshwater area in the Morne Seychellois National Park, an important water catchment for the island.

More places

Thérèse Island

An uninhabited island off the west coast of Mahé, known for its conical silhouette and excellent snorkeling.

Morne Blanc

A prominent peak on Mahé, known for its mist forest and the spectacular cliff with ocean views.

Glacis-Trois Frères Habitat

A mountainous area on Mahé known for its pitcher plants and some of the world's smallest frogs.

Île aux Vaches Marines Habitat

An important bird and marine habitat west of Mahé, named after the dugongs (sea cows) that used to frequent these waters.

Tea Plantation Mahé

The only tea plantation in the country, situated in the cool mountains of Morne Blanc, offering panoramic island views.

Victoria Botanical Gardens

A century-old garden in the capital city, home to giant tortoises, fruit bats, and rare orchids.

Copolia

A popular hiking trail on Mahé leading to a granite plateau with 360-degree views.

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Vacoa Nature Trail Mangroves

An educational trail on Mahé's west coast leading through an intact mangrove ecosystem rich in crabs and fish.