The forest of the coco de mer
Praslin is the Seychelles' second-largest island and home to the Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO-listed palm forest where the coco de mer grows, producing the largest seed in the plant kingdom. The forest is also the home of the rare black parrot. Anse Lazio in the north-west, framed by granite boulders, is one of the finest beaches in the islands, and Côte d'Or is a long sweep of sand with hotels. Boats leave for Curieuse Island, with its giant tortoises and mangroves, and for bird-rich Cousin Island.