The Amirantes Islands were discovered by Vasco de Gama in 1502. With their unspoilt nature and gorgeous lagoons, these coral islands, over 200km southwest of Mahé, feel like the ends of the earth. In Desroches, diving, deep-sea fishing or "palangrotte" (bottom-fishing), and boat trips to neighbouring islands attract nature lovers looking for strong sensations. Poivre Atoll (1 km2), with its central lagoon surrounded by reefs, is one of the loveliest of the Amirantes, along with Alphonse Atoll.