The Seychelles is divided into Inner and Outer Islands. Mahé is the largest of the Inner Island group, and lies to the south of its nearest neighbours, Silhouette, Praslin and La Digue. The Outer Islands are strung out to the southeast.

Every island in the archipelago boasts stunning beaches, though not all are safe for swimming, and there are numerous opportunities for sporting types, bird-watchers, hikers, bikers and pure ultra-violet hedonists to indulge their particular passions. Most islands are linked by swift ferry and air services. However, chartering a yacht and pottering about the archipelago - in the manner if not the style of explorers of long ago is perhaps the most idyllic way to take in this Indian Ocean utopia.