Exploring The Glacis La Reserve Trail (Mahé, Seychelles)
From The Authors: Gaelle and Viktor are avid hikers and have done almost every imaginable hike there is in the Seychelles.
The Glacis La Reserve trail is one of the easiest, yet most stunning hikes you can do in the Seychelles. It’s perfect for those exploring the southern side of Mahé, so we’ll cover what you can expect on the trail.
👉 How To Get There | The Glacis La Reserve Trail
How To Get to Glacis La Reserve
Glacis La Reserve, not to be mistaken with the Glacis La Noire trail on Praslin, is located right in the heart of Mahé island.
There are two SPTC buses crossing the trail, namely line 2A (ANSE BOILEAU VIA MT.PLAISIR on platform A) and line 4 (ANSE BOILEAU VIA MT.POSEE on platform Q).
The bus stop is located close to the start of the trail. Simply look out for the blue Cable & Wireless sign (pictured below) or let your bus driver know that you stop there.
You can check timetables on the official Seychelles Public Transport Corporation (SPTC) website under “Mahe Normal Timetable No. 103” by downloading the attached Word document.
Alternatively, download the namesake SPTC mobile app where you can also purchase individual tickets or reload your existing travel card.
If you come by car, which we recommend since it’ll save you tons of time, then parking in front of the trail’s entry is plentiful and free.
The sign reading “La Reserve Nature Trail” is your cue to that you made it to the track, which we’ll cover in more detail below.
The Glacis La Reserve Trail
Before we get started, here are some key facts about the trail:
- Distance: 1.2 km (0.75 miles)
- Elevation Gained: 100 meters (328 ft)
- Duration: up to 45 minutes
- Difficulty: low
The Glacis La Reserve trail is one of the easiest and quickest in all of Mahé. It’s doable for all age groups and fitness levels.
If you’ve done hikes like Morne Blanc, which we absolutely recommend you to do, then this will be easily manageable.
You also don’t need any special shoes or equipment as you’ll mostly walk on solid ground and rarely have to climb on rocks. Most of the hike is covered by trees, so you’ll only be exposed to the sun on the viewpoint.
We do, however, recommend that you bring Seychelles hiking essentials with you, namely water, sunscreen, and mosquito spray.
The journey along the Glacis La Reserve trail offers a diverse and enriching experience.
As you embark on the trail, you’ll traverse through a serene mahogany (Sweitenia macrophylla) timber plantation, dotted with endemic palms that add to the area’s natural beauty.
This tranquil path then descends slightly, leading you to a small stream. Keep in mind that during the dry season, this stream often dries up, subtly reflecting the seasonal changes of the region.
The trail then winds through secondary woodland, a testament to the resilience of nature as this area has regrown following previous exploitation and disturbances.
As you continue, the woodland opens up to reveal a striking landscape of bare rock and boulders.
This change in scenery is not just visually stunning but also ecologically significant, with vegetation resiliently sprouting from the crevices and spaces among the rocks.
As you approach the glacis area, a wide expanse of rock and boulders, caution is advised. This area, while offering breathtaking views, also has steep drops and crevices hidden among the boulders.
The trail ultimately culminates at a wooden platform and picnic area, from where you can enjoy a panoramic view that is nothing short of spectacular.
The vista extends from the end of the airport and Anse Aux Pins on the East coast to the distinctive ‘tooth’ of Morne Blanc mountain to the North West.
This vantage point also offers a view of the native forest backdrop, where endemic palms and broadleaf trees dominate, showcasing the unique biodiversity of the Seychelles.
There’s a note prior to entering the platform, urging visitors to “not go beyond this point.” Some of the wooden plates are missing, so please do be cautious and watch your steps.
Other than that, just soak in the views, which are some of the best you can get on the island (next to the 360 degree views you’ll get at the end of the Copolia Trail).
This type of forest is increasingly rare, threatened by invasive species and creepers, making your visit to this trail not just a journey through stunning landscapes, but also a witness to the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem.
And if you want to know what you’re getting yourself into, then here are a few more impressions from the quick hike:
