BUCKET-LIST PARADISE

Running in a tropical paradise should be on everyone's 'to do' list. RW digital editor Kim Woolrich ticked that box at the spectacular Seychelles Nature Trail.

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As I made my way through the 8km mark on the northwest corner of the 22km trail, I was reminded why the Seychelles is truly seen as an island paradise. On my right side was the lush forest we were about to turn and enter; and on the left, the Indian Ocean, stretching to the horizon. It was a picture postcard, and I was running in it.

For me, running the Seychelles Nature Trail was a unique experience that transcended the event itself. It was more than just running; it was an almost unreal journey through the best parts (and there are many) on the island of Mahé.

At 157 square kilometres, Mahé is the largest island in the Seychelles but just one of 115 islands in total, divided into inner and outer island sets in the stretch of ocean known as the Somali Sea. Victoria, the capital of the Seychelles, is located on Mahé, and most of the population of just 100 000 live there.

The race itself takes place within the spectacular Morne Seychellois National Park, which covers much of the island and includes such exotic plants as the jellyfish tree, the carnivorous pitcher plant, and many unique species of orchid; and it's also home to over a thousand bird species.

The route starts at the upmarket Constance Ephelia Hotel and finishes at the Grand Anse Mahé Stadium, within the park. But along the way, the terrain and views are quite simply awe-inspiring. This gritty trail takes you through everything – from lush tropical forest to steep mountain passes to white, sandy beaches and turquoise ocean.