This type of coconut does not have water in it, only the meat inside or "kernel" is used both as foodstuff (but only while the coconut is very young and tender enough to eat) and for beauty products. The kernels have historically been exported, principally to China, but a law enacted just a few days ago will ensure the Coco de Mer stays in the Seychelles and is processed here into soaps, creams, etc, and then exported out. The hike is pretty strenuous, uphill all the way to the top of the mountain, mostly under cover of the tropical forest but hot hot hot nonetheless.
Along the way we spot some bird species indigenous to the Seychelles and the ubiquitous Coco de Mer palm trees, male and female, their large fronds reaching up. The reward is at the top, with gorgeous views of the island, as well as a couple of great shots of the elusive Black Parrot. As if we were not tired enough, after the hike we walk into the small village and go to the gym we spotted yesterday - Valley Fitness - for a drop in session.
It is tiny, crammed with old, malfunctioning weight lifting equipment which almost made a widow out of me. Hot as hell, I just stand under a cranky ceiling fan waiting for Blake to finish. From there we make a beeline for the yacht, escaping the heat and sun for a bit, in favour of a cool beer and some good creole food. The demanding hike has taken its toll and by early evening we're done. No leisurely dinner, no entertainment, just the cool sheets awaiting us.
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