The Most Spectacular Places To Cycle In Seychelles

Seychelles is perhaps not the typical location for a cycling holiday. However, there is some great cycling to enjoy for all levels of cyclists. Predominantly, cycling is experienced on the three most populated islands, Mahé, Praslin and La Digue. You can get around most of these islands by bike. Cycling is also an option in some of the private island resorts – although beautiful they are not challenging rides.
It’s worth noting that while cycling is popular here, there are no specific cycle lanes in Seychelles. Also cycle helmets are not required by law so you may want to bring your own if you’re planning on cycling here, particularly on the roads.

La Digue

La Digue is the third most populated island and today, it is synonymous with cycling. It is the main form of transport on the island and there are very few cars. In fact, the plan is that all fuel-dependent cars will be eliminated from Seychelles by 2020 so there will only be electric cars.

Hiring a bike on La Digue is really easy. When you arrive into the main town of La Passe there are plenty of rental places to choose from. Most hotels and guest houses will supply or hire bikes to guests. Don’t expect a particularly fancy bike and give your breaks and gears a test before you head off.

Cycling is the best way to explore La Digue – if you see somewhere you want to stop, just prop your bike against a tree and explore. Don’t worry about bike theft, it just doesn’t happen.

Cycling to the famous Anse Source D’Argent in the Union Estate is totally flat so even the most novice of riders can get there by bike.

The toughest climb is the hill over to the south coast of the island. There you’ll find Anse Cocos, Petite Anse and Grand Anse. The reward for the hard climb is that you’ll have very few people to share the beach with.

Praslin

The second most populated island is Praslin. Prepare for a lot more traffic here compared to La Digue. The coastal road, known locally as the Consolation Road (after Anse Consolation that it passes) will give you some beautiful views but there are two particularly challenging climbs, that are tough to walk and drive up let alone cycle. You may need to get off and push at these points.

Cycling the road through the Vallée De Mai can be a fantastic experience. This road can be busy so watch for cars, particularly on the switchbacks. You should definitely stop and take a wander through the Vallee De Mai Nature Reserve.

If you’re feeling really strong, you can actually do a loop of the Vallee De Mai and the Consolation Road.

Vallee De Mai, Praslin, Seychelles

Mahé

The largest and certainly the busiest island by far, Mahé contains some great roads to check out on your bike. Cycle on the road through the Morne Seychellois National Park. Or, try the picturesque North Coast Road from Beau Vallon to Victoria. This follows the route taken by the Seychelles Eco-Friendly Marathon. The East Coast Road, while shorter is also a beautiful cycle route. Head left from the international airport and you’re straight on it.

Morne Seychellois National Park, Mahé, Seychelles

Start at the stunning Beau Vallon for the North Coast Road cycle.

Alphonse Island

When you stay at Alphonse Island your bikes are included. Bicycles are definitely the best way to get around the island. You can take guided tours or take a trip on your own. With Alphonse Island considered to be one of the most pristine islands in the world, you will be in the most beautiful of natural surroundings.

Alphonse Island Resort, Alphonse Island, Seychelles +248 4229030

Cycling on Alphonse Island | © Alphonse Island Resort

Cycle tours

If you are looking to do a cycling tour of Seychelles, then try Go Explore Seychelles. This is a South African company that offer holidays to Seychelles that are more than just staying in a fancy hotel. They offer specific packages for cycling as well as many other experiential packages.

You can read more about cycling in Seychelles in the book written by Carlos Antunes titled Seychelles – The Bike Tour Guide: More than 675 Km of cycling routes in Paradise. The author has also shared lots of suggested cycling routes for Seychelles here.

Cycling rules in Seychelles

Before you get going on your cycling adventure, get well acquainted with the rules so you don’t find yourself in trouble. According to the Seychelles Road Transport Act the rules for cycling in Seychelles are as follows:

All bicycles must be fitted with a working bell or horn
Brakes must be fitted (and working)
Pneumatic tires must be fitted
For night-time cycling on a road, a white light must be fitted in the front and a red light on the back
No pillion passengers
If you’re hiring a bike, ensure that it is licensed.

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