Time Zone |
Indian/Mahe |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC+4 |
Daylight Saving Time |
Daylight saving time is not observed in the current region. |
Time Zone |
Atlantic/Reykjavik |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC+0 |
Daylight Saving Time |
Daylight saving time is not observed in the current region. |
Mahe, the main island of the Republic of Seychelles and the political, economic and cultural heart of the country, lies in the western part of the Indian Ocean and, although it covers an area of only about 155 square kilometers, it is home to some of the best of Seychelles' natural and man-made landscapes. It is home to Victoria, the tiny capital city known for its bustling markets, colonial-style architecture and the world's smallest church. The island is blessed with rugged mountains, lush green rainforests and long stretches of white sandy beaches, including Ancelazio Beach, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with its fine white sands set against clear blue-green waters. Mahé is also a paradise for eco-enthusiasts, with Prahran Island National Park offering an abundance of rare flora and fauna for hiking, scuba diving and bird watching. The year-round warm climate (24-32 degrees Celsius) makes it a four-season vacation destination and a top choice for experiencing the unique island flavor of the Seychelles.
Located on the Snæsan Peninsula in the west of Iceland, Arnarstapi is a picturesque old fishing village. Nestled on the southern coast of the peninsula, about 2.5 hours from Reykjavík, this peaceful settlement is known for its unique basalt landscape and magnificent coastline.
The village's most famous landmark is the naturally occurring basalt arch, where long term erosion by the waves has shaped the stunning rock formations. With its black sand beaches, rugged cliffs and rich bird habitats, the surrounding area is a paradise for photographers and nature explorers. Nearby Snaefell Glacier National Park was depicted as the entrance to the center of the earth by Verne in his Journey to the Center of the Earth.
Alnastapi plays an important part in Icelandic history and is rumored to have been a meeting place for the gods of Norse mythology. The village retains traditional Icelandic architecture and features a small museum and cozy cafes. It becomes a popular base for hiking, birdwatching and sea fishing in the summer, and in the winter it's possible to view the glorious Northern Lights.
Visitors can stroll along the iconic Coastal Path for majestic views of the Atlantic Ocean or head to nearby Church Hill (Straw Hat Hill) to capture the beauty of the reflections. The small but well-appointed village is an ideal hub for exploring the geological wonders of the Snæsan Peninsula and experiencing Icelandic village life.