Destination: Seychelles

The Seychelles are a small collection of tropical islands found just off the east coast of Africa. Spread out over a wide area, there are over one hundred islands to choose from, and each of these miniature tropical paradises offers a unique destination for a delightful family holiday.

The Seychelles have long been a favourite destination of wealthy holiday makers who are drawn to their white sandy beaches and clear blue waters, but the Seychelles are also an ideal location to take the kids, and there are plenty of activities to keep even the youngest family member happy and occupied.

The capital city of Victoria is modeled on an English town because of its history as a colonial settlement. There is even a miniature model of Big Ben at the heart of the centre. Visitors can enjoy the delights of the Victoria Natural History Museum and the Victoria Botanical Gardens or spend time shopping in the local market.

The islands are covered in unique plant and animal life that is distinctive to these tropical islands and viewing there are a number of National Parks that take advantage of the natural habitat. The Morne Seychelles is the largest of these parks and offers an escape to nature for tourists and visitors.

The Seychelles is around a ten hour direct flight time from London, which makes getting there relatively easy, and the climate is tropical so the weather tends to always be warm. The best months for warm weather, little rain and low humidity tend to be in April and May, and then again in October and November, which are the months between the times that the two prominent trade winds hit the islands.

Things to do in Seychelles with Children

Snorkeling is a great way to see the islands natural marine life, and children are welcome on many of the trips. Most resorts can book a trip for their guests, but snorkeling equipment can often be rented on the many beaches. There is plenty of life beneath the waves without taking a boat trip, so families wanting to enjoy the experience from close to their hotel can do just that.

A visit to the Domaine de Val des Près is great for the whole family, regardless of their ages. This is a traditional creole craft village, where all the houses and shops are brightly coloured in native style, and the gifts are crafted from local items such as coconut.

Walking is a perfect way to see the islands up close and personal, and there are plenty of walks that have been graded by the local tourist board so your family will known exactly what they’re getting into before they head off. The Glacis Trois Frères is one of these fantastic trails that is graded as easy but still reaches an altitude of 300 metres and affords spectacular views across the Seychelles chain. Take the walk yourselves, or hire a guide for some local information on the wildlife as you go.

A trip on Teddy’s Glass Bottom Boat is a great way to see what’s beneath the waves without getting wet. Ideal for the whole family, this small boat and its crew will take you around the islands on a discovery adventure, give you the chance to snorkel in some quiet coves, and provide a fantastic lunch for everyone on board.

Recommended family friendly holidays and hotels in Seychelles

Lemuria Hotel is a 5* luxurious all-suite hotel located on the northwest coast of Praslin and reached by light aircraft It is possibly the most family friendly in the Seychelles. Guests get to play for free on the challenging championship golf course, or to kick back and enjoy a lavish spa treatment. Children aged 4-12 get the 'Turtle Club' with a variety of supervised indoor and outdoor activities that are organised daily. With its child minding services, sheltered coves, and kids' menus, Lemuria makes for a great family holiday. More details...

Maia Luxury Resort & Spa is child-friendly and family-friendly, with its 30 spacious one bedroom villas, all giving uninterrupted ocean views and a private butler. Children are kept entertained with a diverse range of 'Very Important Kids' (VIK) activities and menus that suit most tastes. There is sand castle building, swimming lessons, snorkelling in the pool, treasure hunts and arts and crafts. There are canoe trips, volley-ball and movies for the teens. As part of the VIK programme, your personal butler will also provide exemplary care for your children when needed! More details...

Recommended Eco friendly holidays for the family to Seychelles

If you looking for a true 'castaway' feeling, then this eco lodge offers that magical holiday experience. With endless stretches of fine white coral sand beaches, this little island is a true retreat, as apart from the guests and staff, there are no other human inhabitants! Children will be in a safe environment which to explore, swimming pool and the older kids will enjoy the marine life. Click here for more details on this eco friendly retreat.