Golf in the Seychelles at a glance
Golf: you might assume that hardly anyone would travel to the Seychelles specifically for a golf holiday, since the options for playing are, admittedly, rather modest compared with other destinations.
On the other hand, if you are a recreational player who would like to hit a few balls in a unique setting during your holiday, there are certainly ways to do so.
There are only two golf courses in the whole island nation, and that number has not changed in over twenty years. If you want to play both, the best plan is to combine Mahé and Praslin.
| Seychelles Golf Club | Lémuria Golf Course | |
|---|---|---|
| Island and location | Mahé, Anse aux Pins, about 10 minutes from the airport | Praslin, Constance Lémuria, Anse Kerlan |
| Holes and par | 9 holes, also playable as 18 holes, par 68 | 18 holes, par 70 |
| Length | approx. 4,500 m (for 18 holes) | 5,611 m (hotel figure) |
| Opened | 1972 | October 2000 |
| Access | Public, rental clubs available | Hotel guests without green fee, non-guests on request |
| Buggy | For a fee | Mandatory, for a fee |
Seychelles Golf Club on Mahé
The first option is the Seychelles Golf Club on Mahé. It has a 9-hole course among the palms, south of the airport on the island's east coast.
The course was founded in 1972 and covers around 50 acres of former mangrove swamp and coconut plantation. Some of the fairways are treacherously narrow and lined with tall coconut palms, with the odd takamaka and casuarina tree in between. Red crabs live around the water hazards and like to carry off stray balls, and with a little luck you may spot migratory birds.
Getting there
From Pointe Larue airport it is about ten minutes away, which makes the course a good choice for a round on the day you arrive or leave. You can easily get there by hire car or taxi; there is a separate page on the bus service.
Playing and facilities
The 9 holes can also be played as an 18-hole round, though from different tees. The facilities include a driving range, a putting green and club hire. The clubhouse has a bar and a restaurant serving snacks and meals. If you are staying longer, you can take out a temporary membership for one to four weeks.
Sources give differing information on tee times, opening hours and prices. It is therefore best to check with the club in advance, especially at weekends and on tournament days.
Lémuria Golf Course on Praslin
The course
Newer and bigger, however, is the 18-hole championship course at the Constance Lémuria Resort on Praslin. It opened in October 2000 and was designed by Marc Antoine Farry and Rodney Wright. According to the hotel, the par 70 course measures 5,611 metres. It is a real challenge for players of every standard and appeals to professionals and amateurs alike. It borders the two lovely beaches of Petite Anse Kerlan and Grand’ Anse Kerlan.
The first twelve holes run beneath palms with sunlight shimmering through, and from the 13th the course climbs into densely wooded hills, where players enjoy wide views from the heights. The best-known hole is the 15th, a par 3 with a drop of around 50 metres between tee and green, with the beach of Anse Georgette in the background. To this day the hotel calls it the only 18-hole course in the Seychelles.
Green fee, buggy and lessons
For guests of the Constance Lémuria the green fee is free. Whether this also applies to guests of the Constance Ephelia on Mahé, which Karl used to mention as an exception, you should check directly with the hotel before booking. Non-guests may also play here after registering; ask the hotel about conditions and prices.
A buggy is compulsory and costs extra. Lessons are given by the hotel's golf professionals.
Planning a golf holiday
From Mahé to Praslin
A golf holiday works best as an island combination: a few nights on Mahé with a round at the Seychelles Golf Club, then on to Praslin by domestic flight or ferry. The ferry takes about 45 to 60 minutes. You will find timetables on the pages about the Cat Cocos ferry and domestic flights. To search for hotels, use the hotel booking page.
Best time and daily routine
You can play all year round. Rain showers are more frequent during the north-west monsoon from December to February; read more under best time to travel and climate and weather. Because of the heat, an early start in the morning is worthwhile.
Frequently asked questions
Are there any other golf courses?
No. There is the 9-hole course on Mahé and the 18-hole course on Praslin.
Can I play at the Lémuria if I am not a guest?
Yes, after registering with the hotel. They can tell you the conditions and prices.
Do I need to bring my own clubs?
The Seychelles Golf Club hires out clubs. At the Lémuria, ask the hotel in advance about hire. You will find packing tips under luggage.
Is the course suitable for beginners?
The course on Mahé is considered relaxed and family-friendly. At the Lémuria, lessons with the hotel professionals are available for an extra charge.
