La Digue is small. 5 km long, 3 km wide, about 3,000 people. There are almost no cars, no airport, the main road follows the coast, and you get around on a bike. It is the most loved island in the country among the people who’ve actually been there.
The shape of La Digue
The west coast has the famous beaches. Anse Source d’Argent through L’Union Estate, then Petite Anse, Anse Cocos and Grand Anse stretching south. The north coast has Anse Severe and Anse Patates. The east coast has La Passe (the ferry harbour and main village), Anse Réunion, and Anse Banane to the south. Bicycles handle the whole island in a day.
Where to stay on La Digue
| Property | Notes |
|---|---|
| Le Domaine de l’Orangeraie | Premium resort, plantation aesthetic, central La Digue |
| La Digue Island Lodge | The historic large hotel, beachfront, mid-tier |
| Patatran Village | Best value-for-view, cliff-top, dinner restaurant excellent |
| O Soleil Self-Catering | Apartments, walking distance from La Passe |
| Cabanes des Anges | Small bungalows, family-run, friendly |
The non-negotiables
- Anse Source d’Argent. Go after 3pm.
- Cycle to Anse Cocos via Grand Anse and Petite Anse. Seychelles’ most beautiful coastal walk.
- L’Union Estate. Coconut press, plantation cemetery, tortoise enclosure.
- Anse Severe and Anse Patates on the north coast.
- Sunset at Anse Réunion or the harbour pier.
- Dinner at Chez Jules or Tarosa.
Getting to La Digue
By ferry from Praslin’s Baie Sainte Anne. Cat Cocos and Inter Island Ferry both run hourly. ~15 minutes. EUR 15. There is no airport on La Digue. You can also reach La Digue direct from Mahé on the Cat Cocos with a stop at Praslin (~1 hr 30 total).
Getting around La Digue
Rent a bicycle at La Passe. SCR 100–150 per day. There’s no need for a car. A few electric carts exist for less-mobile travellers; ox-carts (the traditional transport) still run occasionally for tourist photos.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to spend a night on La Digue or is a day-trip enough?
Day-trip works but is rushed. One night is far better. You get the sunset, the post-day-trip quiet, the late-afternoon Anse Source d’Argent light, and a proper Chez Jules dinner.
Are there rental cars on La Digue?
No. Bicycles only. A few electric carts for hire if needed.
Can I bring bags on the ferry?
Yes. Checked-luggage allowance is similar to a Twin Otter (15kg). Excess fee around SCR 50 per kg. The ferry handles backpacks easily.
Is La Digue suitable for families with young children?
Yes. The roads are car-free, distances are short, the beaches are calm. Bike trailers for kids exist at some rental shops.