Alphonse Island

Alphonse Island is a triangular atoll located about 400 kilometers southwest of Mahé. It is world-famous for saltwater fly fishing but increasingly attracts nature lovers seeking untouched wilderness. The island is small enough to explore comfortably by bicycle, which is the preferred mode of transport. The dense tropical vegetation is home to numerous rare bird species. The waters around Alphonse are exceptionally clear and rich in marine life, including manta rays, spinner dolphins, and sea turtles. The sustainable resort on the island places great emphasis on environmental protection and features guided tours for wildlife viewing. The lagoons are good for kayaking and stand-up paddling in total tranquility. A one-hour flight from Mahé brings guests to this exclusive island. The best time for divers and snorkelers is between October and May, while fishers prefer the season from October to April. Alphonse gives an authentic nature experience without sacrificing comfort in one of the world's most spectacular seascapes.

Nearby cities

Takamaka

A district in the far south of Mahé, named after the characteristic Takamaka trees.

Quatre Bornes

A rural village in the south of Mahé, serving as a gateway for exploring the pristine south coast.

Muine Bheag

Muine Bheag, also known as Bagenalstown, is located in County Carlow.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a compact medieval city known for its castle, cathedral, and vibrant arts calendar.

Graiguenamanagh

Graiguenamanagh is located on the River Barrow in County Kilkenny.

Athy

Athy, a historic market town at the meeting point of the River Barrow and the Grand Canal, is famous for its unique 13-sided castle and p…

Abbeyleix

Abbeyleix is located in County Laois.

New Ross

New Ross is a port town in County Wexford.

Portlaoise

Portlaoise is the county town of Laois.

Aughrim

A charming granite village in the Wicklow Mountains, known for its scenic fishing lake and stone architecture.

Portarlington

Portarlington is situated on the border of counties Laois and Offaly.

Mountmellick

Mountmellick is located in County Laois.

Gorey

Gorey is a town in County Wexford.

Ballymore Eustace

Historic village in Kildare, site of fighting during the 1798 Irish Rebellion.

Courtown

A vibrant family resort in County Wexford, famous for its sandy beaches, the Seal Rescue Trust, and dense coastal woodlands.

History & landmarks

Ballymoon Castle

An unfinished 13th-century Norman castle in Carlow.

Ferns Castle

A 13th-century Norman fortress in County Wexford.

Grannagh Castle

Ruins of a 13th-century castle near Waterford.

Kilcash Castle

Ruins of a 16th-century castle in Tipperary.

Nature

Mount Leinster

The highest mountain in the Blackstairs Mountains on the border of County Carlow and County Wexford.

River Barrow

The River Barrow is one of Ireland's great eastern rivers.

River Suir

The River Suir is one of the three 'Sister Rivers' in Ireland.

More places

Anse Intendance

A wild and imposing beach in south Mahé, famous for its large waves and lush mountain backdrop.

National Reptile Zoo

Ireland's only reptile zoo in Kilkenny, featuring snakes, crocodiles, and lizards.

Carlow Technology Park

Carlow Technology Park hosts innovation-oriented companies in the southeast region.

Jerpoint Abbey

Jerpoint Abbey is a famous Cistercian ruin in County Kilkenny.

Kells Priory

Extensive ruins of a 12th-century Augustinian monastery in Kilkenny.

Rock of Dunamase

Historic castle ruins atop a limestone crag in County Laois.

Slieve Ardagh

Hill country on the border of Tipperary and Kilkenny.

Secret Valley Wildlife

A family-friendly animal park in Wexford with pumas, monkeys, and meerkats.