La Digue beach Seychelles. La Digue Island, Seychelles. Extreme Sports

Even among amazing beautiful islands The island of La Digue in the Seychelles archipelago stands out for its beautiful landscapes, which often seem simply unreal, they are so flawless.

This island, unspoiled by human intervention, appears to its guests in the form in which it existed hundreds, and maybe thousands of years ago.

Staying here creates a feeling of complete isolation from the outside world, which is dominated by Newest technologies and economic crisis.

It is here, surrounded by truly pristine beauty, that you can forget about the bustle, rush and stress of everyday life.

La Digue is the fourth largest island in Seychelles in terms of size and population density, ahead of only Mahe, Praslin and Silouette.

At the same time, the island is somewhat inferior to them in terms of the level of civilization, since there are no enterprises here, and even the road network is represented by only one dead-end branch.

However, this does not mean that tourists will not be able to receive a fairly high level of service and a comfortable stay here.

Due to the fact that the tourism industry in La Digue is the only source of income for the population, excellent conditions have been created for accommodation, food and entertainment for foreign guests.

The territory of La Digue Island extends 3 km wide and 5 km long in the western part of the Seychelles archipelago.

The nearest large island is Praslin, located only 6 km away, the distance to Mahe Island is 43 km.

You can get to La Digue either by boat or by helicopter from the same Praslin and Mahe.

The island's population is about 2.5 thousand inhabitants, the bulk of whom live in the town of La Pass.

This locality It can hardly even be called a village, it is so small. However, there are several shops, a police station and other municipal buildings.

In addition, there are also settlements on the island: La Reunion and Union. All of them are located in the western, most populated part of the island. In addition to the service sector, local population engaged in agriculture, namely the cultivation of coconut and cinnamon plantations.

The landscapes of La Digue harmoniously combine the pinkish beaches of the coast, the virgin a tropical forest the central part of the island and granite cliffs and boulders scattered throughout its territory.

Main mountain range La Diga - Mount Ni d'Aigle, whose name translates as “eagle's nest,” occupies a significant part of the island.

Its peak rises 300 m above sea level.

The main natural attraction here are large granite boulders, which under the influence of water and monsoon winds have acquired unusual shapes.

Pink at dawn and crimson-red at sunset, they add a fantastic quality to the surrounding landscape, creating the feeling of being on another planet.

Despite the fact that La Digue was discovered by Arab travelers in the first half of the first millennium, the island began to be developed only in the middle of the 18th century.

La Digue was mapped in 1744 Indian Ocean navigator Lazarus Pico. For its granite rocks of a reddish hue, it received the name Red.

In 1768, a French expedition landed on its territory, sailing on the sailing ship La Digue, in honor of which the island received its modern name.

From this period, the settlement of the island by settlers from India and European colonialists began.

The graves of the first inhabitants of La Digue, who sailed here from Reunion Island, are still preserved in the northern part of the island.

In addition to these graves, the cultural and historical attractions of the island include the art gallery, which is located in La Pass. Its size is as small as everything else on La Digue.

Also on the island there is a Creole house, in which certain scenes from the film “The Return of Emmanuelle” were once filmed.

In general, the nature of La Digue has inspired and continues to inspire creative people, and just tourists who come to sunbathe on the local beaches.

You can start exploring the island from, which local residents called the most great place on Seychelles.

Its name is translated from French as “source of wealth.”

However, no treasures are buried here; its main treasure is its unearthly beauty.

Against the backdrop of green palm trees and the azure ocean, red granite rocks look especially bright, and their bizarre contours are especially sharp.

Only in this bay you can see so many incredible piles of stones of different sizes and amazing shapes.

In the coastal bends of the Source d'Argent there are several long and not very large beaches, but they are all quite narrow, their width does not exceed several meters.

No less picturesque than Source d'Argent is Coco Bay, but its beauty is of a slightly different kind.

It represents the classic shore of a desert island, as most people see it in their dreams.

The snow-white, crescent-shaped beach, sandwiched on both sides by steep cliffs and surrounded by dense tropical greenery, harmonizes perfectly with the ocean waves rolling onto the shore.

In the west of the island there is one of the protected areas of La Digue - national park Union Estate (L'Union Estate).

Here, giant Aldabra tortoises, whose age can reach 150 years, live in specially equipped enclosures.

Within the park is a huge granite formation called Union Rock. The area of ​​this sloping hill, polished by time, is about 1 hectare.

In addition to exploring the local attractions, Union Estate offers its guests such activities as horseback riding along the shore and watching how the locals process coconuts into copra and coconut oil.

Another reserve, La Diga, located in its eastern part, was created specifically for the purpose of protecting paradise or Seychelles flycatchers, which live only on this island.

The reserve itself is miniature, like these rare birds, but its territory contains many interesting representatives of the local flora and fauna. Among them are flying foxes, huge snails, strange insects, as well as a variety of tropical flowers and huge trees.

The island's beaches differ from other Seychelles beaches with their pink sand, which is given to it by tiny particles of granite.

The largest beach on the island is Grande Anse; Anse Cocos and Petit Anse beaches are also popular among tourists.

The coastal water temperature is comfortable for swimming throughout the year.

However, from April to October, when the monsoon winds blow on the island, quite high waves, which can be dangerous not only for beginners, but also for experienced swimmers.

The rest of the year, the water of the Indian Ocean is clean and clear, making it ideal for fishing and diving.

La Digue has all the facilities to practice these two sports.

You can fish both from the shore and on a rented boat directly in the ocean.

Since in many places the island is surrounded by a coral reef, the water is quite calm.

So divers can enjoy without any problem underwater world La Digue Island, which is represented by a whole variety of marine fish, shells and more than 100 species of corals.

Due to the fact that there is only one road on the island, and it is not asphalted, but paved with stone, there is practically no road transport on La Digue.

La Digue has restaurants serving both Creole and European cuisine. It is worth considering that all establishments accept orders only until 22:00, after which you can only order drinks. The cuisine is dominated by seafood dishes.

It is worth visiting the La Digue Island restaurant, which is located in the hotel of the same name.

This restaurant is located on the territory of the L’Ocean hotel. The tables are located on a large terrace, which offers a simply enchanting panoramic view. It is probably included in the price of the dishes, since the prices here are quite expensive.

The restaurant is located near Source D’Argent Bay. There are very tasty Creole dishes (sea creatures, poultry, meat). But the speed of preparation leaves much to be desired.

The cafe premises are a large hut under palm leaves. Inside, instead of the floor, there is sand, and tables and chairs are replaced by large and small stumps. The signature dish of the establishment is the core of a cabbage palm with rice.
People often come here to quench their thirst with cool drinks. Hot drinks are free.
Also, the desserts here are very tasty. Every Sunday the cafe serves Buffet with seafood. This pleasure costs only $10.

The cafe has very reasonable prices, and from the terrace you can see neighboring island Praslin. Be sure to try the vanilla ice cream.

Popular dishes:
- soup from sea reptiles;
- bat meat;
- octopus with coconut curry;
- coconut pudding with vanilla.

Beaches of La Digue

This beach on La Digue several times recognized as one of the most best beaches in the world. It can be seen on most souvenir postcards. Entrance to the beach is paid - about $8.
On the beach there is a restaurant, cafe, grocery stores, and souvenir shops.
Green palm trees, azure ocean, white sand and red granite rocks growing from the water - all this makes the beach truly a paradise.
But that's all fabulous place has its drawbacks. The main trouble that can await you here and on other local beaches is sea ​​urchins. You should be wary of them while swimming. Also, due to its mega-popularity, there are a lot of tourists on the beach.

Very picturesque beach, having the shape of a crescent. Here you can often see filming for advertising or cinema.
Warm waters of the Indian Ocean on one side and tropical greenery on the other, and on the side a beach framed by rocks.

If you want to feel like you're desert island, then you should visit this beach.
About a kilometer of snow-white sand, reminiscent of powder, tall palm trees and quiet surf guarantee this.

Attractions La Digue

A local landmark is the 18th-century Creole-style house where the film Emmanuelle was filmed. Now, the President of the Seychelles lives in it. It is located near national park. Among the religious monuments on the island there is the Church of the Assumption of Our Lady. It was built more than 100 years ago. The temple is located near the port.Also, a special place in historical heritage occupied by the graves of the first colonialists, which can be seen when visiting Cap Barbie.

The ancient architectural monument has been perfectly preserved to this day.

In the northern part of the island is located beautiful cape, which is surrounded on both sides by bays. Palm trees, breadfruit trees and large ferns grow here. The cape can be reached via the only road. Very often you can see artists and divers in this part of the island. The former paint pictures with beautiful landscapes, while the latter study the underwater world.

Union Estate Park is located in the northwestern part of the island. An ancient colonial building has been preserved here, where the famous film “Emmanuelle” was filmed.
Near a high granite mountain there is a farm with giant turtles. Also, in the park there are coconut and vanilla plantations. Everyone can see the process of making coconut oil and visit the Plantation House, which was built in the French colonial style.
In the park, tourists are offered horseback riding (cost: $10).

Granite Boulder is a giant rock that formed after magma cooled, even in the early stages of the Earth's development. Its age is about 750 million years.

The park is open every day, from seven in the morning until five in the evening, the ticket price for adults is $5, admission for children is free.

From this mountain there is an amazing view of the entire island. You can get to the very bottom by bicycle. There is also a small restaurant where you can relax before climbing up. True, you don’t need much effort to climb, just desire and comfortable shoes.

This national park is home to rare tropical birds - flycatchers. It is also the symbol of the island. This is the only reserve in the world where these birds live in the wild.
It is very difficult to see these birds of paradise - they are too shy. But still, you can see tropical plants and other inhabitants of the park. The reserve is located near the Nid d'Aigle mountain.

The island is great for activities aquatic species sports. Spearfishing, yachting, diving and surfing are very popular. There are about 30 sports centers on Lag Digue, where you can choose any kind water entertainment to your taste.
For those who want to take a tour of the island, they offer to do it by cart or helicopter. Such adventures will not always remain in your memory.

Shopping

On the island, shopping can hardly be called an important event. There are very few shops here, mostly grocery stores. For basic shopping, the local population goes to the capital of the state - Victoria.
Most of the purchases will be souvenirs from local residents.

Popular souvenirs:
- coconut (special permission required);
- earthenware products;
- Creole spices.

La Digue Island stands out for its incredible beauty. Amazing landscapes sometimes they seem just a mirage. On some beaches, due to the red granite rocks, the sand takes on a pink tint. It is these beautiful views that attract many photographers from different countries world to take fantastic pictures of this earthly Eden. Almost complete isolation from the outside world allows you to relax 100% during your vacation.

Day excursion to La Digue Island from Praslin Island (- previous part of the review about the Seychelles)

How to get to La Digue from Praslin Island

- arrive at the pier Cat Cocos(see map of Praslin Island)
– you buy water and chips at the nearest general store so that the 15-minute ferry ride won’t be boring.
– after that, park your car in front of the entrance to the pier and buy ferry tickets at one of the ticket offices.

For some reason, the cashiers ask about the return departure time from La Digue Island.
We didn’t know when we would go back, so we assumed that the last ferry would be at 17:00.

Map of La Digue Island

Unfortunately, I forgot the name of the ferry company - there are several of them in the Seychelles.
There are direct ferries from Mahe to La Digue, and there are direct ferries from Praslin to La Digue

Having gone “there” you can’t go wrong - board your ferry, and back you need to pay attention to the name of the ferry so as not to leave for Mahe.
Ferry tickets cost 400 rupees return

Travel time from Praslin to La Digue is 15 minutes - the island itself is visible to the naked eye.
Upon arrival in La Digue, I recommend renting bicycles right at the pier - there is only one road on the island, the island itself is small and one of its parts is actually a national park.

That’s where we go – to the national park – and the first thing we do is jump into the saddle and push the pedals.
Renting two bikes for the day cost 300 rupees, or just under $30.

After leaving the port, you need to turn right and drive straight all the time in one place, keeping to the right - you will hit the barrier of the national park.
The guard at the entrance asked for 150 rupees from each person to visit the park.

Our path takes us through an enclosure with turtles trying to mate in full view of tourists on the way to the most photographed beach on La Digue: Anse Source D'Argent

Beach Anse Source D'Argent

The beach is beautiful.
Lots of weddings.

We found a ceremonial structure that had not yet been dismantled: an arch with flowers.
After the photo shoot, the newlyweds retire to their bedchambers - there are a lot of hotels on the island.

You can view prices and book through the hotel booking site: 31 hotels on La Digue island with reviews and instant booking without prepayment.

The sea in the Source D’Argent area is shallow - however, everything is visible in the photos and videos.

People wander waist-deep in water along a special path between corals with access to a “clearing”
The water here is clear and schools of fish are visible, so people in masks dart around underfoot.

Video from La Digue Island

The beach is bordered by rounded rocks and has several bays.
As a rule, newlyweds try to occupy the most secluded ones. But not for what you think - they just make a demobilization photo album.

After we lay in the water, we can drive to the other end of the island and to another beach.

Grand Anse Beach

This beach is not for swimmers - there are red flags and warnings about treacherous currents.
But people still jump on the waves, and the waves here are sharp

4.91 /5 (11 )

6k (52 per week)

La Digue Island in the Seychelles is a tiny and cozy corner of paradise, favorite place famous film directors and photographers who come here from all over the world. From the minute you arrive on the island of La Digue, you have the feeling that time has stood still here, and the locals are extremely hospitable and friendly.
The area of ​​the island is only 10 square meters. km, so transport here is represented by several pickup trucks, carts, four taxi cars and hundreds of bicycles, which is more than enough for a population of 2000 people. The best way to get around here is by foot.
At the service of travelers are pleasant and comfortable hotels, luxury hotels, and a travel agency. The excellent quality road that encircles the island looks fabulous, bordered on both sides by tropical vegetation.
The first settlers on the island in 1798 were Bourbon exiles who resisted the transfer native land to the British. Today La Digue in the Seychelles has a very developed infrastructure: There are restaurants, bars, hospitals, rental shops.

The village of La Pass is located in the west of the island, where the majority of the local population is concentrated. This is where ferries from Praslin land daily. La Pass has a tourist office and many hotels, and from the pier you can easily walk to any hotel.

Parallel to the shore is good road with tropical plants on the sidelines. Having driven along it in a northerly direction, vacationers will reach Anse North beach, after which the road turns around and passes several rocky coves. During the southeastern monsoons, the sea becomes too turbulent. But from Anse Banana Bay through La Digue Island there are hiking trails where you can find quieter coves.

How to get to La Digue island

The atoll is connected with the rest of the islands of the archipelago by regular ferry crossings, therefore, there will be no problems with how to get to La Digue. From the pier, to central city On the islands of La Pass, ferries depart daily to Praslin, which takes 30 minutes, and Mahe, which takes about 3 hours.
If you want to travel individually, you can charter motor boat or a small boat, which the natives will kindly provide you with. For our dear guests, the delivery service to any point in Seychelles by private helicopter is always relevant.

Attractions La Digue

There is a lot to see in La Digue; you can take a tour of the local attractions on foot or on a two-wheeled horse. The length of the route is only 3 km, where you will meet:

• majestic old castle Chateau Saint-Claude, built in the colonial style at the beginning of the 19th century;
• exclusive La Veve nature reserve, where amazing birds - paradise flycatchers - nest on Indian almond and taymak trees;
• in the Seychelles, La Digue is one of the suppliers of high-quality vanilla; the spice is grown on the Union estate. Here is also the oldest building in Seychelles - the planter's house, from which you can immediately get to the stunningly beautiful coast;
• romantic beach with huge boulders - Anse Sure d'Argent, popular place for sunset wedding ceremonies.

Estimate!

Give your rating!

10 1 0 1

What to see on the island of La Digue

Regardless of whether you come to La Digue Island for your entire vacation, for a week, or you are just passing through for just 1 day, we will help you choose the most interesting places. There is something to see here - for example, attractions, beaches, you will find information about each place with us: from opening hours to detailed description with photos. Below is a list of the best places on the island of La Digue, compiled based on the ratings and reviews of users of our site. You, too, can take part in the formation of the ranking of places by leaving your review and rating. This will help our future users choose what interesting things to see on the island of La Digue.

La Digue Island... A timeless oasis hidden in the Indian Ocean. Warm azure waters abound coral reefs, beaches with the most delicate sand, in places a light pinkish tint, seduce and beckon, the noise and bustle are somewhere far away, it seems like in another world. La Digue is bathed in peace and tranquility - this island in the Seychelles archipelago remains as charming as it was in the days of the first settlers, who firmly believed that they had discovered the same Garden of Eden. A serene atmosphere, friendly people, beaches whose photographs adorn the pages of glamorous magazines, mesmerizing bays with jade-clear waters, green jungle hills - all this is La Digue. Despite such alluring beauty, La Digue has managed to avoid the kind of tourism development that is noticeable in Mahe and Praslin. Yes, of course it is inhabited and civilized, but La Digue is more laid-back than the other main islands of the Seychelles. There are only a few paved roads, there are practically no cars, and they are not needed here, because the island is only 3x4 kilometers in size. It is customary to move around on bicycles or on the most ordinary carts drawn by oxen. For those who want to discover the Seychelles, La Digue is perhaps the best place, because it can be easily explored on foot.

What to see. Attractions La Digue

From the low-lying coastal plateau, along a convenient walking path, you can climb to the top of Mount Eagle's Nest (Ne d'Aigle), from where you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of La Digue, the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean and neighboring islands.

One of the most visited places in La Digue is the Union Estate Park, located in the southern part of the island. Huge granite boulders, an old planter's house, giant turtles and... the same Emmanuelle house in which the scenes were filmed cult film from the time of the first videotapes in our country.

In the park you can also see all the stages of obtaining copra at the only factory remaining on the island for the production of this raw material. There is also a small wooden mill located here.

Another local historical landmark is the old cemetery, where the first permanent settlers of the island are buried.

It is interesting to visit the bird sanctuary and see the famous paradise flycatcher - an endemic bird species that is still considered to be on the verge of extinction. The reserve is not only ideal place for bird watching - the tranquility and stunning landscapes invite you to enjoy pleasant walks.

Hotels in La Digue. Shopping, nightlife

There are several comfortable hotels on the island, but the main accommodation is villas and guesthouses. Moreover, you can choose a hotel either on the shore or located in the depths of the island, in the jungle. Yes, you have to walk to the beach, but what romance.

Many hotels in La Digue organize weekly evening barbecues with live music performed by popular local musicians, adding an appropriate atmosphere to the flavors of Creole dishes. On weekends community Center La Diga is open from 9 pm to 3 am. Disco and other entertainment, a mixture of modern and traditional music, in general, all the delights of the local nightlife.

The only Gregoire supermarket is located in the Gregoire Complex, next to the pizzeria. Small shops are scattered throughout different parts of the island, and although the selection of goods there is smaller, you can buy everything you need. Souvenirs and beach items are sold at kiosks near the La Passa pier. Local fruits can be bought at roadside stalls.

Beaches of La Digue

Anse Source d'Argent (Silver Spring) is considered one of the most beautiful and most frequently photographed beaches on earth. Still - a large stretch of soft coral sands shimmering with gold and silver, surrounded by impressive granite giants, and a little further - hidden coves , separated by tall boulders and secret caves.

Union Beach is a lovely stretch of velvety sand washed by calm waters turquoise sea. The place is quiet and peaceful, considered ideal for wedding photo shoots.

Anse Nord Beach is a secluded, sun-drenched strip, perfect not only for swimming, but also for snorkeling.

Grand Anse is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Seychelles, whose golden sands are often met by powerful waves that attract surfers. The backdrop of the beach is huge granite boulders and lush forested mountains - wonderful views that are pleasant to admire while soaking in the sun.

Anse Coco is the most isolated, stunning in its untouched beauty beach on La Digue. You can get to it on foot: either through Grand Anse, or bypassing the entire island. Amazing place for rest, relaxation and privacy.

Another Robinson beach is Anse Maron from the “must see” category. It is simply impossible to miss and not see this wonderful lost piece of happiness. Maybe it was he who dreamed of long Russian winters...

Describe incredible beauty local beaches words are not enough. Although the Russian language is rich, it is difficult to describe and convey those sublime feelings, that feeling of detachment and complete bliss that appear here. It’s better to come and see everything for yourself.

But it is worth remembering that a number of La Digue beaches are subject to strong seasonal currents and powerful waves. They are always clearly marked with warning signs - you should pay attention to them and be careful.

La Digue is another proof that there is heaven on earth

La Digue is a tropical refuge, a step into another, less complex and more enjoyable era, the best place in the Seychelles to understand the local culture and way of life. Come to the Seychelles - you will immediately fall in love with these paradise islands!