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With an interesting history that prevails from port to plantations, La Digue is a great option for travellers looking for a little extra culture on holiday. It is also less built up than Praslin and Mahé.
The history of La Digue
According to historian Julien Durup, a native of La Digue, explorer Lazare Picault spotted the island in 1742. However, it was not named until 1768, after a 360-ton ship under the command of navigator Marc-Joseph Marion du Fresne.
The first settlers on La Digue – French colonists with African slaves – arrived in 1789. The majority returned to France, but during the decades that followed the island became home to many liberated slaves, French deportees and Asian immigrants. These early islanders earned their living through making copra from coconuts and growing vanilla on their plantations. This tradition continues to the present day, but tourism is the principal industry. With its world-famous white-sand beaches, impressive variety of marine life, dramatic Eagle’s Nest Mountain and beautiful Veuve Nature Reserve, La Digue offers an awesome island holiday!
La Digue beaches
The least populated of the three main islands, and feeling well off the tourist trail, La Digue is appreciated for its laidback living – and the beaches here are some of the quietest in the Seychelles. In the north, Anse Source d’Argent has all the features of the finest beaches, with the exception of the crowds! And the east of the island is host to Petite Anse, just 15 minutes’ walk from Grande Anse. This is a delightful half-moon of silky sand and cerulean shallows – small yet fabulously formed!
Activities & accommodation
Very few cars are permitted on the island and it is more usual to see oxcarts rumbling along the roads. We recommend hiring a bike to explore the island. From the sleepy village of La Passe to L’Union Estate & Copra Factory to Veuve Nature Reserve with its magnificent black paradise flycatchers, there is plenty to discover here. While ferries to neighbouring island Praslin are frequent – and from Praslin, it is possible to take a trip to Mahé. For inspiration on activities whilst on this beautiful island check out our blog: "What to do in Praslin".
The island has a range of hotels and guesthouses – we feature the excellently located Fleur de Lys. This eight-chalet property is close to the amazing Anse Source d’Argent, while watersports are available from the nearby port. One of La Digue’s major attractions is its laidback pace of life.
