02 Feb 2023
If you’re visit the south easterly coast of Mahe, you cannot miss a visit to Le Jardin du Roi! If you’re still in the planning stages of your holiday to Seychelles, be sure to add this place to your Seychelles bucket-list.
Nestled away in the jungle forests of Les Cannelles on the south easterly coast of Mahe is the famous ‘Jardin Du Roi’. Although this translates directly into ‘The Garden of the King’, it is commonly referred to as the ‘Spice Gardens’ in English. As you walk in, be prepared to step back into the 18th century Seychelles French Colony, admist citronella, vanilla, nutmeg vines, traditional architecture and the smell of freshly made cinnamon crepes.
A little history
Originally, Le Jardin du Roi was created in 1700s opposite the beach at Anse Royale as place to cultivate spices, fruits and vegetables to contribute to the island’s needs. Unfortunately, in 1780 Lieutenant Romainville saw ships approaching Mahe, and thinking it was the British launching and invasion, he set fire to the gardens. The vessel turned out to be a French ship.
The gardens have been relocated to the hills of Les Canelles and is now run by the Georges family who live on site, in a traditional colonial garden home.
How to get there
Driving south from Anse Royale, take a right when you see the Les Canelles junction which will be opposite a small anglican chapel. Drive all the way up, until you reach the first village shop and take a left. A few metres down you will see a sign for Le Jardin Du Roi at the foot of a road. A drive up could take about 5 minutes and there is a parking at the entrance of the garden.
We decided to park our car the the foot of the hill next to a shop, and hike up! By foot, the walk takes about 15-20 minutes and is very pleasant, allowing you to take in the views of Anse Royale bay, as well as truly enjoy the scenes of fruit trees and local homes along the way. Plus, it’s great exercise!
The visit
Arriving at the garden is like stepping back in time, and you are immediately met by aromas of cinnamon and lemongrass. There is ample and safe parking space for your car as you embark on the adventure. The building to the right is the restaurant and terrace, and the one straight ahead houses a small museum on the first floor, and gift shop on the ground floor.
Upon arrival, make your way to the restaurant building where you can buy your entrance ticket for Scr 120 per person. All visitors are given a map of the property, with trails on the left or right side of the buildings.
Entrance to the restaurant.
One of the main attractions of the property is Mrs. Georges house, a traditional colonial-style farm house which stands in the centre of the gardens. Visitors are able to enter the house and visit the living area which also displays historical artefacts, photos and furniture. It is really like stepping back in time. Don’t forget to take your shoes off before you enter!
The views from the house are truly breath-taking, looking out into the gardens and onto the sea!
Once you have done visiting the house, you can make your way to the gardens where you can see many endemic spices, flowers and fruit trees, as well as animals such as pigeons, rabbits and the giant land tortoise. The property also has a traditional sugar cane mill!
The entire garden is beautiful and truly breathtaking, however our favorite spot was at the very top of the hill, where we found a beautiful shady view point with the most beautiful trees surrounding it. This would be the perfect spot to have a picnic, cold drink and to take lots of photos!
At the end of the visit, you must treat yourself to some of the local delicacies at the on-site restaurant! It is one of the few places on Mahe offering truly authentic, home-made creole delicacies. Mrs. Georges team even makes their own ice-cream! We tried a trio of cinnamon, lemongrass and vanilla, as well as banana crepes and cinnamon ice-cream. See the food menu below to have an idea of the dishes and prices! We found the food to be delicious, and of very good value, considering they make it all from scratch.
After lunch, stop by the museum and the gift shop!
Are you on the lookout for the best accommodation on Mahe? The Runway Lodge is an affordable bed & breakfast located directly opposite the Seychelles International Airport.
Contact us to book your room: