Things to Do in La Dique: A Guide to Top Activities, Attractions, and Hidden Gems

La Digue is one of the most picturesque islands in the Seychelles archipelago, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. It is a paradise for nature lovers, offering a range of outdoor activities such as snorkeling, hiking, and bird-watching.

The island is also home to the famous Anse Source d’Argent beach, which is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With its unique granite rock formations, powdery white sand, and turquoise waters, it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Seychelles.

In addition to its natural beauty, La Digue has a rich cultural heritage, with a charming Creole village and traditional Seychellois architecture. Visitors can explore the island by bike, the most popular mode of transportation on La Digue, and enjoy delicious local cuisine at one of its many restaurants.

Attractions & Things to do in La Digue

1. Anse Source d’Argent

Anse Source d’Argent is one of the most photographed beaches in the world, and it’s easy to see why. The beach is famous for its stunning granite boulders, crystal clear waters, and soft white sand.

Travel Tip: Visit during low tide to explore the coral reefs and rock pools.

2. L’Union Estate

L’Union Estate is a historic plantation that offers a glimpse into the island’s past. Visitors can explore the traditional plantation house, coconut oil mill, and giant tortoise pen.

Travel Tip: Don’t miss the old cemetery where original settlers of the island are buried.

3. Grand Anse

Grand Anse is the largest beach on La Digue and is perfect for those looking to relax and soak up the sun. The beach is lined with palm trees and has soft white sand and turquoise waters.

Travel Tip: Be careful when swimming as the currents can be strong.

4. Petite Anse

Petite Anse is a secluded beach that is perfect for those looking for some privacy. The beach is surrounded by granite boulders and has soft white sand and crystal clear waters.

Travel Tip: The beach is accessible by a short hike from Grand Anse.

5. Anse Cocos

Anse Cocos is a beautiful beach that is perfect for snorkeling and swimming. The beach is surrounded by granite boulders and has a natural pool that is protected from the waves.

Travel Tip: Bring your snorkeling gear to explore the underwater world.

6. Nid d’Aigle

Nid d’Aigle is the highest point on La Digue and offers stunning views of the surrounding islands. The hike to the top is challenging but rewarding.

Travel Tip: Bring plenty of water and start the hike early in the morning to avoid the heat.

7. Veuve Nature Reserve

Veuve Nature Reserve is home to the rare Black Paradise Flycatcher bird. The reserve has a network of trails that take you through dense forest and past small ponds.

Travel Tip: Bring your binoculars for bird watching.

8. Anse Severe

Anse Severe is a popular spot for snorkeling and swimming. The beach has soft white sand and is lined with palm trees.

Travel Tip: The beach is a popular spot for sunset, so make sure to stay late.

9. Anse Patates

Anse Patates is a small beach that is perfect for relaxing and swimming. The beach is surrounded by granite boulders and has soft white sand and crystal clear waters.

Travel Tip: The beach is a great spot for a picnic.

10. Belle Vue (Eagle’s Nest Mountain)

Belle Vue, also known as Eagle’s Nest Mountain, offers stunning views of La Digue and the surrounding islands. The hike to the top is challenging but rewarding.

Travel Tip: Bring plenty of water and start the hike early in the morning to avoid the heat.

Unique Activities in La Digue

1. Praslin & La Digue Island-Hopping Tour with Lunch

Embark on an island-hopping adventure from Mahé to Praslin and La Digue. Experience the beauty of Seychelles as you explore the islands, indulge in local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the tropical paradise.

Day Trips from La Digue

1. Praslin Island

Praslin Island is the second largest island in the Seychelles and is home to the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island has beautiful beaches and is perfect for hiking and snorkeling.

Travel Tip: Take a ferry from La Digue to Praslin. The journey takes about 15 minutes.

2. Curieuse Island

Curieuse Island is a small granite island that is home to a large population of giant tortoises. The island has a network of trails that take you past mangrove forests and granite cliffs.

Travel Tip: Take a boat tour from La Digue to Curieuse Island. The journey takes about 30 minutes.

3. Felicite Island

Felicite Island is a private island that is home to the Six Senses Zil Pasyon resort. The island has beautiful beaches and is perfect for snorkeling and diving.

Travel Tip: Take a boat tour from La Digue to Felicite Island. The journey takes about 20 minutes.

Where to stay in La Digue

La Digue is a picturesque island in Seychelles, renowned for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and a plethora of hotel options catering to various preferences and budgets. Whether you’re looking for luxury, a budget stay, or something tailored to your specific needs, La Digue has a hotel for you. Here are six hotels that stand out in different categories:

1. Best Reviewed Hotel

Le Repaire – Boutique Hotel & Restaurant (★ ★ ★ ★)

• Description: Overlooking the Indian Ocean, Le Repaire features a small outdoor pool and elegant rooms.
• Price: €297 per night
• Rating: 8.9 (Fabulous)

2. Most Luxurious Hotel

Le Nautique Waterfront Hotel La Digue

• Description: Le Nautique Waterfront Hotel La Digue boasts an outdoor swimming pool, garden, a restaurant, and bar.
• Price: €319 per night
• Rating: 9.6 (Exceptional)

3. Budget Hotel

Chez Marston

• Description: Chez Marston in La Digue provides adults-only accommodation with a garden, a restaurant, and a bar.
• Price: €118 per night
• Rating: 7.9 (Good)

4. Hotel for Families

Patatran Village Hotel (★ ★ ★)

• Description: Located in La Digue, Patatran Village Hotel overlooks the beachfront and features a year-round outdoor pool.
• Price: €271 per night
• Rating: 8.4 (Very good)

5. Hotel for Couples

Hotel L’Ocean (★ ★)

• Description: Located at Anse Patates on La Digue Island, Hotel L’Ocean offers magnificent sea views, a restaurant, bar, and sun terrace.
• Price: €205 per night
• Rating: 8.2 (Very good)

6. Hotel for Solo Travellers

Chalets de Palma

• Description: Boasting an outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant, Chalets de Palma offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi and a balcony.
• Price: €88 per night
• Rating: 9.4 (Superb)

Did you know? Facts about La Digue

• La Digue is the fourth-largest granitic island of Seychelles after Mahé, Praslin, and Silhouette Island.
• The island was named after a ship in the fleet of French explorer Marc-Joseph Marion du Fresne, who visited Seychelles in 1768.
• There is no airport on La Digue, so to get there from a foreign country, one must fly to Victoria and continue by ferry, usually via Praslin.
• The first people settled on the island in 1789 when French colonists arrived with their African slaves.
• The island’s main industry is tourism, and it saw a major increase in tourism numbers in the late 20th century.
• The Veuve Nature Reserve on the island is home to the rare black paradise flycatcher, of which there are only about 100 in existence.
• The primary means of transportation on La Digue is the bicycle, and it is possible to rent bicycles near the ferry pier.
• The local cuisine is a mix of world cuisines, with a specific focus on fish, and the most popular alcoholic drink is palm wine.
• La Digue is home to the critically endangered paradise flycatcher and a significant population of giant tortoises from Aldabra.
• The reefs and lagoons of La Digue offer a large amount of flora and fauna, including green sea turtles, butterflyfish, eagle rays, moray eels, and blacktip reef sharks.

FAQ about La Digue

Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_Digue
https://www.booking.com/city/sc/la-digue.en-gb.html
https://www.getyourguide.com/la-digue-island-l117525