Ile Sylvestre Island is a privately owned island located in Saint Lucia. The island is part of the Buccaneer Group of islands, which are situated in the South East Caribbean Sea.
The island has a land area of approximately 246 hectares and a water area of approximately 5.5 hectares. The island is accessed by a single bridge that links it to the mainland. It can be reached by plane, boat or car.
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Iles Sylvestre Island History
Ile Sylvestre Island is one of the many uninhabited islands in Seychelles. It is located about 45 km southwest of Mahé and about 25 km northeast of Praslin. The island has an area of about 2 sq km, and its highest point is 112 m.
The first recorded European sighting of Ile Sylvestre Island was by the Portuguese explorer Duarte Barbosa in May 1521. He named it Ilha de São Sebastião (Island of Saint Sebastian), after the Spanish martyr Saint Sebastian.
The island was uninhabited until 1885 when a French military captain named Felix-Henri Dufour started a plantation there. Dufour sold the island to a British businessperson in 1896, and it was used as a sheep station until 1949. From 1949 to 1955, it was leased to the United States Navy as an airfield for operations against Cuba during the Cuban missile crisis.
In 1955, Ile Sylvestre Island became a nature reserve and tourist destination, and it has been uninhabited since 1985. It is currently managed by the Seychelles National Trust.
Geography
Ile Sylvestre Island is located in the middle of the Indian Ocean and is part of the Comoros archipelago. The island is about 130 kilometers long and up to 25 kilometers wide. It has an area of about 134 square kilometers, and its highest point is 1,795 meters above sea level. The island’s population is about 7,000 people.
Ecosystem
The ecosystem of Ile Sylvestre Island comprises of a variety of aquatic and terrestrial organisms, including seabirds, cetaceans, reptiles, amphibians and mammals. There are also a number of plants that grow on the island, including palm trees and bromeliads. The island’s wildlife is affected by a number of factors, including climate change and human activity.
Population
There is no permanent resident population on Ile Sylvestre Island, and the island’s population fluctuates depending on the season. In winter, the island’s population decreases due to colder temperatures, while in summer it increases as tourists arrive.
Economy
The economy of Ile Sylvestre Island is based on subsistence agriculture, fishing, and hunting. The main cash crop is cocoa. There are also a variety of fishery products, such as lobster, crab, and tuna. The main export is cocoa beans. The trade between the different islands in the archipelago and the rest of the world is mainly carried out through small boats.
Climate
The climate of Ile Sylvestre Island is generally warm and humid with occasional showers. The island experiences a rainy season from May to October and a dry season from November to April. There is also a brief typhoon season from May to September.
Culture And Religion
The culture of Ile Sylvestre Island is based on the traditional customs of the island’s residents. There are also a number of religious symbols, such as churches and monasteries, that can be found on the island.
Languages
The primary language spoken on Ile Sylvestre Island is Malagasy.
Tourism
The tourism of Ile Sylvestre Island can be classified into four main categories: relaxation, activities, culture and heritage. The island is known for its natural beauty, which includes crystal clear waters, white-sand beaches, lush vegetation and rocky cliffs. The best way to enjoy the island’s natural attractions is by taking a leisurely walk or cycling ride.
There are also several restaurants and bars on the island that offer delicious local cuisine. For those who want to explore further, there are several hiking trails that lead to beautiful waterfalls and caves. Finally, the island offers a variety of cultural activities such as snorkeling and diving. Visitors can also enjoy tours of the historical sites and visit the art galleries.
Hotels And Resorts List
There are a number of hotels and resorts on Ile Sylvestre Island that offer excellent accommodation and facilities for visitors. Some of the best options include the Chalet Les Anses d’Ile-Sylvestre, which offers an outdoor pool, tennis courts, a playground and barbecue facilities;
The Arsane Resort & Spa, which features luxurious villas with large gardens; and Residence Ile-Sylvestre Blanc Suivi d’un Jardin Tropicale & Spa, which offers overwater bungalows with private pools.
Attractions
If you’re looking for a serene and peaceful getaway, Ile Sylvestre Island is definitely worth a visit! This small and picturesque island is made up of lush rainforest, crystal-clear water, and white sand beaches. There are plenty of attractions to keep you busy, including a variety of water sports, horseback riding, hiking, and bird-watching.
In addition to its wonderful natural attractions, Ile Sylvestre Island also has a number of interesting historical sites to explore, such as the Old Fort and the Chapel at the Pointe de l’Église. If you’re looking for an escape from the city, Ile Sylvestre Island is definitely worth a visit!
Transport
There are no regular public transport services on Ile Sylvestre Island, but visitors can hire bikes or cars to explore the island’s attractions.
Cuisine
The cuisine of Ile Sylvestre Island is typical Malagasy, and includes a variety of dishes such as seafood, poultry and vegetables. Local favourites include farmer’s cheese with bread and potatoes, roast chicken with a spicy relish sauce and banana fritters.
Conclusion
Thank you for reading our article on Ile Sylvestre Island. We hope that you found it informative and that it provides you with some useful information about the island. As always, if you have any further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact us. We would be happy to help!
FAQs
1.What Are The Transport Options Available On Ile Sylvestre Island?
Ans: There is no regular public transport service on Ile Sylvestre, but visitors can hire bikes or cars to explore the island’s attractions.
2.Is There A Recommended Time For Visiting Ile Sylvestre Island?
Ans: Yes, the best time to visit Ile Sylvestre Island is during the cooler months (between November and March), when the temperature is moderate and there are fewer crowds.
3.What Is The Currency Used On Ile Sylvestre Island?
Ans: The currency used on Ile Sylvestre Island is the franc.
4.Do I need to bring any special equipment when visiting Ile Sylvestre Island?
Ans: There is no need to bring any special equipment when visiting Ile Sylvestre Island, apart from a sense of adventure!
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