Mission Lodge

High above the Sans Souci road, nestled beneath the peak of the same name, lies Mission Lodge. Have you ever wondered what secrets a mountain could whisper? Mission Lodge is more than just a viewpoint. It’s a place where the echoes of history intertwine with the breathtaking beauty of Seychelles. Once known as Venn’s Town, Mission Lodge began not as a scenic overlook, but as a sanctuary. In 1876, it opened its doors as a school and farm for liberated slave children. Imagine those young souls, finding solace and education amidst the lush greenery. The school, originally called ‘Fagnes Town’ and later ‘Capucin,’ offered a fresh start for these children. They learned, they farmed, and they helped shape the very fabric of Seychellois Creole identity. The ruins of the school’s dormitories, kitchens, and washrooms still stand as silent witnesses to this era. The ‘Laundry,’ with its knee-high walls and remnants of plumbing, offers a poignant glimpse into their daily lives. The children’s education wasn’t confined to textbooks. They learned valuable life skills on the farm, cultivating coffee, vanilla, and coconuts. These crops not only sustained the mission but also provided the children with practical knowledge. From this vantage point, you can take in the same breathtaking panorama that captivated those who came before. Lush mountainsides cascade down to meet the vast azure ocean. Tropical birds soar overhead, their calls echoing through the tranquil air. This very spot welcomed Queen Elizabeth II in 1972, who inaugurated the viewing lodge alongside the Seychelles International Airport. As you stand here, soak in the tranquility. Remember the children who once called this place home. Their resilience, their spirit, and their story are woven into the landscape of Mission Lodge.