Curieuse island Travel Guide

Curieuse Island is a quaint and attractive island located towards the north coast of the Prasin Island in Seychelles. The Curieuse Island Travel Guide gives visitors an in-depth description of the history and nature of the island along with things to do and places to see. There is also a helpful list of accommodation options.

Description

Curieuse Island, originally called Ile Rouge due to its blazing red soil, was taken into possession by the French forces who rechristened it after the famous ship “La Curieuse” used for the exploration of Marc-Joseph Marion du Fresne.  Crrieuse Island has a painful history of doomed events that it cleverly veils in the garb of a cheerful disposition. Although strikingly beautiful, the island was once set on fire by sailors with the aim of converting it into a coco de mer nuts harvesting center. The ill-fated fire thus engulfed several expanses of forest land and rare native vegetation that was once the pride of the region. The remains of the deadly fire still haunt the island. The spirited destination also boasts of some stunning features like a mangrove on its southern tip and a captivating walking path that snakes through the mangroves. The island is as much famous for its Aldabra Giant Tortoise as it is for its coco de mer trees and rare bird species.

Things To Do

Bird Watching is a favorite tourist activity here along with fishing and trekking. The best place to go on a trail is the path along the mangrove swamp that is frequented by a lot of trekkers. There is also a trail that commences from Baie Laraie and winds up at Anse St. José, while passing through the lush mangroves.  The Curieuse Marine National Park allows visitors fantastic glimpses of the large and strikingly beautiful parrotfish and other aquatic varieties. The ‘superstars’ here are undoubtedly the gigantic tortoises, who wander about aimlessly, quiet oblivious to their charm and the reactions they are evoking. Another place worth visiting is the ruins of the leper settlement and the Creole Colonial structure that comprises of a museum (once a physician’s abode) that offers a generous peek into the historical legacy of Curieeuse Island.

Food and Accommodation

There are a lot of luxury resorts in Praslin. For unbeaten comfort head to Lemuria Resort, a property that is famous for its grand service and opulent facilities. Tourists can also check out Chateau de Feuilles, a pristine resort overlooking a sandy white beach. Other choices include Hotel L'Archipel, and Chalets Cote Mer & Colibri.

A delightful portrait of nature amidst a tranquil beach holiday destination, Curieuse Island is a cache of adventure, waiting to be explored.