Saint Anne Island is the largest island in the Marine National Park off Mahe, dominated by a large mountain which rises to 800 feet surrounded by thick tropical vegetation.
Discovered on Saint Anne's Day, it was the first place the early French settlers lived before colonising nearby Mahe. In its recent history the island has been used as a place of refuge for escaped prisoners and as a whaling base during the early 20th century. Up until 1992 it was used to house the National Youth Service where young people aged between 15 - 17 would spend some time living on the island as part of their state education. It has since been developed into a hotel.
Occupying nearly a mile of undulating coastline the only sounds are rustling palm trees and gentle waves lapping at white sandy beaches. Teeming with marine life the three beaches at Sainte Anne offer a unique experience of complete harmony and nature.
Seychelles - St Anne National Marine Park
Sainte Anne Island is surrounded by a Marine National Park, home to more than 150 species of fish and magnificent underwater life. No motorized water sports are permitted to disturb this natural paradise where the treasures of the sea have thrived over thousands of years. Don a snorkel and flippers and discover the magic beneath the blue. Or venture deeper on specially organized scuba diving expeditions.
Saint Anne National Marine Park was designated in 1973 and was the first such park in the Indian Ocean. It encompasses 6 islands off the coast of Mahé near Victoria. St Anne is now one of the most important nesting sites for Hawksbill turtles. The calm, clear waters are perfect for snorkelling and local guides escort tours to provide fascinating insight into the natural history of the reefs, to the visitors.
