Many of the archipelago's islands are populated by giant Aldabra tortoises, and bird species number 250, 12 of those being unique to the islands. Mahe Island's Port Launay Marine National Park is the place to head for whale shark sightings, and Praslin Island is home to the country's national bird - the Seychelles black parrot. Cousine Island is where visitors are encouraged to take part in wildlife conservation projects (and spot free-roaming giant tortoises and rare bird species along the way). A mere 3km away from there is Fregate Island, known especially for its chelonian inhabitants.

The 16th-century Duomo is mainly Catalan-Gothic and Renaissance, although you wouldn’t guess that from its Doric-columned frontage. Inside are peach-coloured walls, 18th-century chapels, and impressive Baroque marble balustrades before the statue-filled high altar.

With its 3,5 km of length, the Thiou is considered one of the shortest rivers in France. Beside its size, it has a lot of canals which give Annecy its nickname "Venice of the Alps". It crosses the Old Town, with its flowered bridges and its picturesque charm.