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Desroches and D'Arros
The Amirantes Islands, of which Desroches and D'Arros are the most prominent, are southwest of the main Seychelles group-between 200 and 340 km from Mahe. Spread over a distance of 150 km they are part of the submarine ridge extending from Mahe south to Mauritius and Reunion. Named for Admiral Vasco da Gama, the
'Ilhas do Almirante' (Admiral Islands) were discovered in 1502 on a voyage to find alternative routes to the Spice Islands.
Desroches is part of a huge lagoon that provides excellent diving conditions. It is the only outer island air-linked to Mahe by a 50-minute flight. The only economically developed island in the Amirantes, it boasts both timber and coconut plantations and the copra produced here is said to be superior to any in the Seychelles archipelago.
Visitors come for bird watching, fishing, diving and as a base to explore the other Amirantes. The only accommodations are at the Desroches Island Lodge, voted the Seychelles 1996 Best Small Hotel.
D'Arros, a large island in the group, is coated with a mature coconut plantation split by a small landing strip. Discovered in 1771 by Baron D'Arros, it was not open to the public until very recently. Now, as an exclusive, secluded retreat, it welcomes a few very fortunate guests a year.
Felicite
Connected through La Digue Island Lodge, Felicite, 4 km southeast of La Digue provides the visitor with the opportunity to possess his or her own private island retreat. Planted lushly with coconut palms the forest also includes groups of Takamaka, badamier and cashew trees.
This tiny island is distinctive with its steep-sided, rocky ridge and a highest point of 213 m above sea level. Excellent snorkeling opportunities invite exploration, but the primary attraction is the chance to rent one's own idyllic island escape, even for a few days. Day trips are also available.
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