Experience the Seychelles
Moyenne
Even upon arrival, everything appears manageable and deliberately well-maintained. The island belongs to the inner island group and, as a smaller island, is an integral part of the Seychelles' geographical structure.
Auf einen Blick
Inselgruppe: Inner Islands
Inseltyp: Sub-island
Fläche: 0,1 km²
Entfernung zu Mahé: 4 km
Anreise: boat
Bewohnt: ja
Geologie: granite
Besonderheiten: Granite mountains, short hiking trails, bays with rocks
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The island of pirates, giant tortoises, and a modern-day Robinson Crusoe
Nestled in the heart of Sainte Anne Marine National Park, just a short boat ride from Mahé's capital, Victoria, lies a tiny island that tells one of the most incredible stories in the entire Indian Ocean: Île Moyenne. When you set foot on this island, you're not simply visiting another piece of nature; you're walking through the impressive life's work of a single, fascinating man.
Île Moyenne is now the smallest national park in the world and an absolute highlight for day-trippers. Anyone who wants to experience giant tortoises up close and follow in the footsteps of pirates will love this magical place!
The life's work of Brendon Grimshaw
The story of Moyenne is inextricably linked to the Briton Brendon Grimshaw. In 1962, the former newspaper editor bought the then completely overgrown island for a paltry 8,000 pounds. What followed borders on a miracle.
From bushland to paradise: Together with local René Antoine Lafortune, Grimshaw spent almost 50 years clearing and renaturalizing the island by hand. They planted over 16,000 trees (including mahogany, palms, and mangoes) and created miles of nature trails.
A protected legacy: Grimshaw later turned down multi-million dollar offers from hotel investors. His only wish was that after his death (he passed away in 2012), Moyenne should belong forever to nature and the public. Today, the island is exactly that: a strictly protected national park without resorts, but with a great deal of soul.
Encounters on equal terms: The realm of the Aldabra giants
Grimshaw's greatest dream was to bring the nearly extinct giant tortoises back to the islands around Mahé. He bought some animals, cared for them, and released them.
Hundreds of free-roaming giants: Today, over 100 magnificent Aldabra giant tortoises roam completely freely across the entire island. There are no enclosures here! As you stroll along the shaded circular path, you're guaranteed to encounter one of these gentle prehistoric giants at any time.
The turtle nursery: In addition to the massive animals, some of which are over 100 years old, there is also a small breeding station for the babies to protect them from birds during the first, dangerous months.
Pirate graves, ghosts and an undiscovered treasure
Moyenne has not only a heartwarming side, but also an extremely mysterious one. The island is considered one of the places where the infamous pirate Olivier Levasseur (nicknamed La Buse ) is said to have hidden his gigantic gold treasure, which remains lost to this day.
Rest in peace: On your walk through the dense jungle, you'll pass a small, mystical cemetery. Here lie not only Brendon Grimshaw and his father, but also two unknown men, firmly believed to be real pirates.
A walk for explorers: The approximately 45-minute circular route takes you past these historic sites, a small chapel, a tiny museum documenting Grimshaw's life, and offers spectacular viewpoints of the neighboring islands and the turquoise reef.
The verdict: Ile Moyenne is an absolute gem and can be perfectly integrated into a half-day trip from Mahé (often combined with snorkeling in the Marine Park). It's a place that proves what a single person with a deep love for nature can create. An island with character, history, and hundreds of friendly turtles – an absolute must-see!