Baie Lazare in the Seychelles: best beaches, hotels and things to see

Baie Lazare is a quiet area on the south-west coast of Mahé, known for its picturesque beaches, small bays and good choice of hotels - from five-star resorts to self-catering apartments. The area is located about 25 km from the capital of the Seychelles, Victoria , and is noticeably different from the livelier northern part of Mahé: there is less tourist infrastructure here, but more opportunities for a peaceful beach holiday.

The name of the area is connected with the French navigator Lazare Picault, who explored the Seychelles in the 18th century. It is believed that he landed in this part of Mahé in 1742, although the exact location of his first landing remains a matter of debate.

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Holidays in Baie Lazare: what you need to know

Baie Lazare is a more secluded and peaceful area compared with the popular northern part of Mahé. There are not many nightlife venues or shops here, but there are beautiful sunsets and several well-known beaches on the south-west coast.

Among them:

• Baie Lazare Beach - a long curved beach with light sand, tropical vegetation and the granite boulders typical of the Seychelles. You can swim and snorkel here, but sea conditions depend on the season.
• Petite Anse - a small picturesque bay where Four Seasons Resort Seychelles is located. The beach is not private, although access to it passes through the resort grounds.
• Anse Soleil - a compact bay with clear water, a beautiful beach and good conditions for snorkelling.

An important seasonal detail: from about June to September-October, the south-west coast of Mahé is more strongly affected by the south-east trade winds. The sea can become rougher, and seaweed may appear on some parts of the coast. Therefore, it is better to check swimming and snorkelling conditions shortly before the trip.

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What to see in Baie Lazare and the surrounding area

Beaches remain the main reason to choose this part of Mahé, but a few days of relaxation can also include walks through natural areas, visits to gardens and trips around the south of the island.

Cap Lazare Nature Reserve

Cap Lazare Nature Reserve is located in the south-west of Mahé. It is a green area with tropical vegetation, walking trails, access to the coast and giant Seychellois tortoises. Visitors come here for walks, to discover the nature of Mahé and for a peaceful break away from the most visited tourist areas. It is best to check excursion formats and visiting conditions before the trip.

Le Jardin du Roi Spice Garden

Le Jardin du Roi Spice Garden is located in the Anse Royale area and fits well into a driving route around southern Mahé. Cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, pepper and other tropical plants are grown here. The garden is set on green slopes with views of the surrounding hills and coast.

Kot Man-Ya Flower Garden

Another interesting stop in the Anse Royale area is Kot Man-Ya Flower Garden. It is located in the Les Canelles area and contains more than 250 species of tropical and medicinal plants, fruit trees and flowers. Giant tortoises can also be seen here.

It is probably not worth travelling across all of Mahé specifically for this garden, but for those staying in Baie Lazare, a visit can be combined in one trip with Anse Royale and Le Jardin du Roi.

Church of Saint Francis of Assisi

The Church of Saint Francis of Assisi is one of the architectural sights of Baie Lazare itself. The Catholic church is located on elevated ground and remains an important part of the local community.

Club Liberte Casino

For evening entertainment, you can go to Club Liberte Casino. There is a casino, restaurant and bar. For quiet Baie Lazare, where there is almost no nightlife, this is one of the few options for evening entertainment.

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Where to stay in Baie Lazare

The choice of accommodation in Baie Lazare is quite varied for a quiet part of Mahé. There are several well-known five-star resorts here, as well as small villas, apartments and self-catering options.

Mango House Seychelles, LXR Hotels & Resorts

This boutique resort is located in the quiet bay of Anse aux Poules Bleues. The residence of Italian photographer Gian Paolo Barbieri once stood on this site, and the modern hotel has preserved the intimate atmosphere of a private home by the ocean.

Mango House has only 41 rooms and suites, so it does not feel like a large resort complex. The interiors use natural wood, light textiles, artworks and designer furniture. Accommodation categories include spacious suites and options with small private pools.

One of the strengths of Mango House is the gastronomy of its three restaurants, serving Japanese, Mediterranean and Creole cuisine. There are also three swimming pools and a fitness room. The hotel is focused on private, peaceful holidays.

Mango House Seychelles, LXR Hotels & Resorts

Four Seasons Resort Seychelles Mahe

Four Seasons occupies green slopes above the secluded Petite Anse bay. The villas are located at different levels of the hill, while paths through the resort's tropical grounds lead down to the beach.

Each villa has its own pool and terrace. Particularly interesting are the options on the slopes, offering panoramic views of Petite Anse bay and the Indian Ocean. Dining facilities include several restaurants and bars.

Le Syel Spa is located at the top of the hill, with open pavilions and panoramic views. Fans of active recreation can go snorkelling, kayaking, take a boat trip or choose other activities. There is also a kids' club.

The main advantage of Four Seasons in this selection is Petite Anse beach, one of the most impressive on the south-west of Mahé.

Four Seasons Resort Seychelles Mahe

Kempinski Seychelles Resort Baie Lazare

The five-star Kempinski Seychelles Resort is located directly in Baie Lazare, between green hills and the ocean. It is a large resort, so you can easily spend several days here without practically leaving the complex.

Guests can choose rooms in different categories with views of the ocean, lagoon or green hills. Family accommodation options are available. The resort has a spa complex, fitness centre, tennis courts and a kids' club.

Café Lazare serves breakfasts and themed buffet dinners. The resort also has a seafood restaurant, while the local lounge bar offers cocktails, light snacks and evening relaxation. The unusual Le Petit Chef dinner format is a gastronomic show with 3D projections.

Kempinski Seychelles Resort Baie Lazare

Pineapple Beach Villas

Pineapple Beach Villas is located directly by Anse aux Poules Bleues bay and offers a completely different holiday format. The complex consists of 10 self-catering villas: eight with one bedroom and two with two bedrooms.

Each villa has a fully equipped kitchen, living room and spacious veranda. There is a shared swimming pool near the beach. An important booking condition: children under 10 years old are not accommodated here.

Pineapple Beach Villas is convenient for those who prefer to cook for themselves, stay in a spacious villa and not depend on restaurant schedules.

Pineapple Beach Villas

Blue Lagoon Chalets

Blue Lagoon Chalets is located near Anse à la Mouche beach and offers a simpler and quieter accommodation format compared with the five-star resorts of Baie Lazare. It is a small guesthouse with spacious accommodation options. A beach, cafes and restaurants are nearby, and from this part of Mahé it is convenient to drive to other bays on the southern and south-western coasts. Snorkelling, kayaking and hiking are available in the surrounding area.

Valmer Resort

Valmer Resort is hidden among tropical greenery on a hillside above Baie Lazare. Thanks to its elevated position, some rooms and public areas offer views of the coast, but it is worth keeping in mind that this is not a hotel directly on the beach.

The resort offers different accommodation options - from studio rooms to family villas and categories with a private pool. Junior Suites have a jacuzzi on the terrace.

There is a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, spa and gym on the property. A playground is available for children. Beautiful views and easy access to the beaches of Baie Lazare are among its advantages.

Valmer Resort

Green Blue Beach House

Green Blue Beach House is located in the Anse Gaulettes area almost opposite the beach. It is a small complex of four apartments rather than a classic hotel. The rooms have air conditioning, Wi-Fi, a private veranda and an equipped kitchen. Shops, a bus stop and the beach are nearby. Car rental and a paid airport transfer are available.

Green Blue Beach House