Beau Vallon Travel Guide

Read this comprehensive travel guide to know about the best places to visit, things to do, food to try, and cultural insights of Beau Vallon in Mahé, Seychelles.


Introduction to Beau Vallon

Beau Vallon is a stunning district located in Mahé, one of the largest islands in Seychelles. Known for its crystal-clear waters, lush vegetation, and picturesque beaches, Beau Vallon has become one of the most sought-after destinations for tourists from all over the world. With an array of activities to choose from, Beau Vallon provides an unparalleled experience that is both soothing and exciting. This comprehensive travel guide is designed to help you plan your perfect vacation in Beau Vallon.

List of Places to Visit in Beau Vallon

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Seychelles Natural History Museum: This museum is a must-visit for all those who want to learn about the diverse flora and fauna of Seychelles. With over 2000 exhibits including skeletons, taxidermied animals, and plant specimens, this museum is a living encyclopedia of Seychellois nature.
  • The Tempio Hindu: This is the only Hindu temple in Seychelles and was built in 1992 by a group of Hindu worshippers from India. The temple’s architecture is inspired by South Indian temple design, and it is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.

Natural Attractions of Beau Vallon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Beau Vallon Beach: The most popular destination in Beau Vallon is its pristine beach. With powdery white sand and azure-blue water, the beach is a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like jet skiing, kayaking, and parasailing.
  • Morne Seychellois National Park: This park is the largest on Mahé, covering an impressive 20% of the island’s surface. With its lush wilderness and several hiking trails, including the highest peak in Seychelles, visitors can witness the natural beauty of the region.
  • Sunset Beach: This beach is a great spot to catch the sunset and take in stunning views of Silhouette Island in the backdrop. It is also ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing by the sea.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Beau Vallon

Hiking and biking trails in Beau Vallon are some of the most scenic ones, with jaw-dropping views of the region’s natural beauty. Below are some of the best ones to check out:

  • Copolia Trail: This trail starts from the Bel Ombre neighborhood and takes approximately two hours to complete. The trail leads through lush tropical forest and rocky terrain, and at the end, you can enjoy panoramic views of Mahé and neighboring islands.
  • Mission Lodge Trail: This hike is perfect for visitors who want to learn about Seychelles’ history while observing breathtaking views of the island from the top. The trail is located in Morne Seychellois National Park and ends at Mission Lodge, a historical site that served as a school for freed slave children of Seychelles during the colonial era.

Best Things to Do in Beau Vallon: Activities and Tours

If you are looking for some fun things to do in Beau Vallon, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best:

  • Snorkeling and Diving: Beau Vallon is home to thriving coral reefs teeming with marine life. With many experienced providers, one can enjoy the beauty of the underwater world through diving and snorkeling tours.
  • Boat Trips to Neighboring Islands: There are several islands dotting in the water around Beau Vallon, such as Silhouette Island and Sainte Anne National Marine Park. Boat trips can be taken to these islands to explore their unique features, such as snorkeling with turtles around Saint Anne National Marine Park.
  • Sightseeing Tours: The island is full of historical and cultural sites, and guided sightseeing tours can help travelers explore these locations while learning about Seychelles’ history.

Week-Long Itinerary for Beau Vallon

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Beau Vallon:

Day Activity
1 Beau Vallon Beach
2 Morne Seychellois National Park
3 Boat trip to Sainte Anne
4 Snorkeling and Diving
5 Day trip to Silhouette Island
6 Tempio Hindu and Seychelles Natural History Museum
7 Hiking Copolia Trail

Food and Drink Scene of Beau Vallon

Must-Try Dishes

Seychellois cuisine is a combination of African, Chinese, Indian, and European flavors. Here are some dishes to try in Beau Vallon:

  • Cari Coco: This is a curry made from coconut milk and spices, usually with chicken or seafood served with rice or breadfruit.
  • Ladob: A traditional dessert made from plantain, sweet potato, and cassava, simmered in coconut milk and sugar.
  • Octopus Curry: Fresh and spicy curry made from local octopus is another must-try dish.

Local Beverages

  • Palm wine: A traditional alcoholic drink made from fermented sap of the coconut palm. It has a slightly sweet and sour taste and is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
  • Takamaka Rum: Seychelles is home to a rum distillery, and Takamaka rum is a popular drink that can be found in bars and restaurants.

Where to Stay in Beau Vallon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Beau Vallon has plenty of accommodation options in different price ranges. Here are some popular options:

  • Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa: If luxury is what you’re after, then Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa is the place to stay. This resort is set in a secluded cove and offers panoramic views and world-class amenities.
  • Coral Strand Smart Choice: This hotel is located right on the beach and is perfect for those seeking budget-friendly options. It offers comfortable rooms and an on-site restaurant serving local and international cuisine.

What to Buy in Beau Vallon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Coconut-based products: Products made from locally grown coconuts are a popular purchase amongst tourists, including coconut oil, lotions or creams, and candles in local markets.
  • Artisanal Crafts: Striking and colorful artwork and jewelry made from local materials and inspired by Seychelles culture are available in boutique stores and souvenir shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Beau Vallon

Seychellois people are known to be welcoming and friendly towards foreigners. French Creole is the official language, and people also speak English. The culture of Seychelles is greatly influenced by African, European, and Indian traditions. Locals enjoy music and dance, and visitors can enjoy local live music and dance performances.

Best Time to Visit Beau Vallon

The best time to visit Beau Vallon is during the dry season, which is from May through to September. This time of year has the least rainfall, fewer mosquitoes, and less humidity. However, it is also peak season, meaning that prices may be higher than the offseason.

Do’s and Don’ts of Beau Vallon

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Learn basic Creole phrases to communicate with locals.
  • Wear sunscreen and a hat while being out in the sun.

Don’t:

  • Carry large amounts of cash and expensive items while walking in crowded areas.
  • Wear clothing that may offend locals, such as revealing attire in markets or villages.
  • Stay out late at night in deserted areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Beau Vallon

Seychelles is one of the safest countries in Africa, if not the safest. However, travelers should always take precautions and travel in groups if possible. It is best to avoid walking alone at night in deserted areas.

Health in Beau Vallon

Seychelles has a high standard of healthcare services, but medical costs can be expensive. Visitors should have travel insurance that includes medical emergencies, and ensure they have updated vaccinations before arrival.

Getting to Beau Vallon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Beau Vallon

Beau Vallon is located on Mahé, which has an international airport - Seychelles International Airport. It is the main hub for all international flights to Seychelles.

Bus Stations Near Beau Vallon

Mahé has an extensive bus network that connects Beau Vallon to all the other towns and cities in the island. Buses are a cheap and efficient way of traveling across the island.

Other Options

Taxis and car rentals are also available, providing a private mode of transportation.

How to Get Around in Beau Vallon

Walking is a popular way to explore Beau Vallon, but other options include bus and taxi services. For more adventurous travelers, renting a bicycle or a car provides a great way to explore the natural beauty of the region.

Where to Go Next from Beau Vallon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Seychelles has a lot of nearby destination areas to explore:

  • Praslin Island: An island with beautiful beaches and lush green jungle, just a short distance from Mahé.
  • La Digue Island: Another idyllic island with stunning beaches and scenic views. One can travel via ferry.
  • Victoria: Capital city of Seychelles- A quaint town with a variety of cultural events and a bustling market, ferry transfer is made available.

Conclusion

Beau Vallon is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful destinations in Seychelles, offering a unique combination of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural richness. With this comprehensive travel guide at hand, visitors can plan the perfect trip to Beau Vallon, Mahé, Seychelles. Before packing your bags, consider learning some Creole phrases for better engagement with locals, respect their traditions, and have an excellent trip!