Anse Boileau: Bay, Fishing and Church History

Anse Boileau lies on Mahé’s west coast and is defined by a long, curved bay. The bay gives visitors a glimpse of the everyday lives of Seychellois fishers; windsurfers can occasionally be seen on the calm sea. Together with the cross-island Chemin Montagne trail and its church history, the destination offers several distinct facets. One practical question to consider when planning your trip is whether to focus on the beach or also include the trail and church history. These interests can help guide your choice of a holiday rental in Anse Boileau.

The Bay and Beach Conditions

From June to September, there may be seagrass on the beach; at high tide, the beach may temporarily disappear. So if the beach is the main focus of your trip, take the season and tides into account when planning. There are several parking areas next to the beach. Availability can change, so it is a good idea to check the parking situation before your visit.

Water and Trail

The cross-island Chemin Montagne trail starts at Anse Boileau beach. As a route across the island, it adds another dimension to a stay otherwise focused on the bay. It is advisable to check current trail conditions before setting out.

Guests of Auberge Chez Plume can use the kayaks available there on the waters of Anse Boileau, opposite the entrance to the accommodation. This is a specific water-based activity available to guests of this accommodation; windsurfers can also occasionally be seen on the bay.

Church History in Several Stages

The first coral-stone church was dedicated to Notre Dame de Sept Douleurs on 30 June 1868. On 28 February 1882, Father Martin Vinzier had the Calvary Cross erected in front of the Notre Dame de Sept Douleurs church, near the sea. The later church was built from 1907 under Father Gabriel-Marie Zegler; its foundation stone was blessed on 19 September 1909.

In 1925, Father Ernest Joye had the La Salette Chapel built in the parish of Anse Boileau. Every year on 15 September, the parish celebrates the feast of Our Lady of Sorrows. Thus, the region’s religious heritage includes both dated building history and an annual feast day.

Anse Boileau in the Wider Landscape

The Anse Boileau district lies on the west coast of Mahé, between Baie Lazare to the south and Grand Anse to the north. Its coastal plains extend north towards the lowlands of Barbarons and Bon Espoir Estate. To the west lies the mountainous forest region of Burlee, where endemic palm species grow. This regional context distinguishes the bay as a coastal feature from the wider landscape of the district.

For the broader travel overview: Anse Boileau.