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Travel to The Seychelles Series Part 4: La Digue, Seychelles
Setting the Scene for La Digue Island
Wrapping up our Seychelles travel series with Part 4, let’s relive our memories of La Digue Island, Seychelles.
You know that carefree, groovy feeling you get when you listen to Bob Marley’s “Jammin”? That was the vibe as we stepped onto La Digue. It’s the least developed island we visited, yet it’s brimming with a charm that’s both effortless and captivating.
If Praslin whispered serenity, La Digue sang it loud and clear—with a reggae beat.
And in case you missed it or just joined us, you may also want to catch up on Part 1: Things to Know Before You Go, Part 2: Exploring Mahe, and Part 3: Discovering Praslin, for the ultimate Seychelles travel guides.
Getting to La Digue
After our ferry traumas from Mahé to Praslin, the 15-minute ride to La Digue felt like an absolute breeze. Smooth, quick, and over before we knew it—this was exactly what we needed. The ferry costs €16 per person, and even though it was raining, the journey was calm and hassle-free. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the island’s lush jungle and charming harbor—a slightly less conventional postcard beauty, but beautiful in its own right.
If you’re traveling from Mahé to La Digue, keep in mind there’s a short stopover in Praslin, and the same applies on the return trip. These stops are brief but worth factoring into your schedule.
Where we Stayed in La Digue
Secret Garden Villa
We never intentionally write negative feedback about an establishment because beauty and charm are often subjective. What feels like a nightmare for one person might be someone else’s dream. That’s precisely how we feel about Secret Garden Villa. Our experience was deeply personal and may not reflect yours. Despite our challenges, we’ve included it as a recommendation because, with more research, it might be the unique escape you’re looking for in La Digue, Seychelles.
Expectations vs. Reality
When planning our Seychelles trip, Secret Garden Villa initially seemed like “The One.” It was the splurge-worthy spot we’d chosen for its unique factor and glowing reviews. We envisioned a romantic treehouse retreat tucked away in the jungle. While the property delivered on the “unique” aspect, it fell short of our expectations in key areas.
The Steep Arrival
Reaching Secret Villa is no small feat. Perched atop a hill, the property requires a steep 350-meter climb that felt like the steepest slope we’d ever encountered. The owners even mentioned that only two vehicles on the island can manage the drive up there.
Worth noting, they do collect you from the Marina on arrival and take you to the top—and back again when you leave. Sometimes, though, you’ll have to wait, because, as we said, there are only two vehicles. During your stay, however, you’re left to hike up and down the hill. And just in case you’re thinking about cycling up there… don’t. It’s that steep. If you’re up for the challenge, it’s worth considering—but fair warning, it’s not for the faint-hearted.
Room Choices
The villa offers two room types: one with an indoor-outdoor feel (the premium option) and another resembling a small wooden box with minimal ventilation (the budget option). We opted for the latter, and it consisted of just a bed and bathroom. Unfortunately, the lack of ventilation and cramped layout made it feel far from the romantic getaway we had envisioned.
To add to the discomfort, the common areas were located directly outside our room, leaving little to no privacy. While the design might appeal to those seeking an unconventional stay, to us, it felt like a fancy backpacker’s lodge attempting to justify five-star pricing.
A Contrast in Experiences
Interestingly, during our short stay, we met a German couple who absolutely loved Secret Garden Villa. Booked for five nights, they were so smitten that they wanted to extend their stay. Yet all we could think about was leaving. This stark contrast highlights how deeply personal travel preferences can be.
Lingering Discomforts
The details further dampened our experience. Cats roamed freely around the property (among other animals), which made Nadia extremely anxious and uncomfortable. The linens smelled damp, and the odor triggered headaches. The bathroom felt unclean, and the 4 AM wake-up calls from roosters and noisy breakfast preparations (just outside of our room) didn’t help. Ultimately, we decided to forfeit our final night and moved elsewhere.
Chez Marston: A Budget-Friendly Gem in La Digue, Seychelles
After leaving Secret Garden Villa, we found ourselves at a crossroads. With our Seychelles budget teetering on the edge, we had to make a choice: stick it out or prioritize better accommodation over activities. We chose comfort, and it was the best decision we made.
A Warm Welcome
Chez Marston, located on La Digue’s main street, instantly lifted our spirits. The rooms, recently renovated, were small but bright and airy. The bed was comfortable, the linens were clean, and—a major bonus—the room had air conditioning! After the unbearable heat at Secret Garden Villa, this felt like a true blessing.
Convenience at Your Doorstep
The location was unbeatable. Chez Marston is near the La Digue Marina ferry terminal and right next to a convenience store. Bicycle vendors lined the street, making it easy to rent bikes and explore the island. Everything we needed was within walking distance, and the vibrant atmosphere reflected the island’s charm.
Breakfast Bliss
Breakfast at Chez Marston was included, and it exceeded our expectations. We tried banana jam for the first time, and it was a revelation. Homemade on-site, the jam was so delicious we bought some to take home. It truly was the best thing on sliced bread!
Looking Back
Reflecting on our experience, we couldn’t help but wish we’d booked Chez Marston from the start. Not only was it budget-friendly, but it was also comfortable, perfectly located, and had an atmosphere that truly made us feel at home. On the other hand, while Secret Garden Villa wasn’t for us, we recognize that its secluded location and jungle aesthetic might appeal to travelers seeking a raw, off-the-grid experience. However, if you’re drawn to its charm, thorough research and careful preparation will ensure it aligns with your expectations.
Highlights of La Digue
1. Anse Source d’Argent
To access Anse Source d’Argent, you’ll need to go through L’Union Estate. The history here is rich—this was one of the first settlements of French colonists on La Digue. Along the way, you’ll encounter the famous giant tortoises, and let us tell you, these creatures are huge. We thought we’d seen massive ones in Zanzibar, but our guide there (shoutout to Genes!) told us, “Wait until you see the Seychelles tortoises.” He wasn’t kidding.
From here, the walk to the beach begins. We took our bicycles, which made the trek more enjoyable, but you’ll need to park them near a little lot and continue on foot. It’s not a long walk, but the anticipation builds as the turquoise waters and granite boulders start to come into view.
Now, let’s get into it—this is a world-famous beach that’s been crowned one of the best in the world, and when you see the drone shots in this post, you’ll immediately understand why. From above, it’s a masterpiece of nature: the towering boulders, the lush palms, and the clearest turquoise water. But if we’re being completely honest, the actual experience felt… a little overhyped.
Yes, the scenery is breathtaking, and yes, it’s a photographer’s dream. But if you’re coming here for a chill beach day—to swim, sunbathe, and relax—it might not live up to your expectations. The beach feels smaller than it looks, and the actual swimming area is surprisingly limited. We kept stubbing our toes on little rocks in the water, which definitely took away from the whole “paradise” vibe. Compared to places like Beau Vallon on Mahé or Anse Lazio on Praslin, this just didn’t hit the same for us in terms of enjoyment. And don’t even get us started on the drink prices—easily the most expensive we’d encountered on our Seychelles trip.
There are three spots for refreshments here. Right by the entrance, there’s a little café/bar where you can grab a drink or a light snack. As you walk further down the beach, you’ll pass a small stand run by a local selling simple refreshments like coconuts and juices. And at the far end of the beach, there’s a reggae bar, which we have to admit was pretty cool. But even with the variety, we couldn’t help but feel like we were paying a premium for being at the Anse Source d’Argent.
Now, if you’re a photographer or drone enthusiast, this place is a must. You’ll kick yourself if you leave without snapping some shots of those iconic boulders and the coastline from above. And the transparent kayak experience here is one of the most popular in the Seychelles for a reason—the water is calm, the coral reefs are stunning, and the whole vibe is perfect for those picture-perfect moments. Just be sure to book in advance, as tours operate at set times and are weather-dependent.
It’s also worth noting the entrance fee to L’Union Estate is 150 Seychelles Rupees, which covers you for the whole day. If you buy your ticket after 3 pm, it’s also valid the next day, which is a nice perk if you want to come back.
So, is Anse Source d’Argent beautiful? Absolutely. It’s a beach that practically begs to be photographed. But as a spot to swim and unwind, we have to admit, it didn’t live up to the hype for us. If your goal is to enjoy a more laid-back beach day, there are better options in Seychelles. That said, this is one of those places that you have to visit at least once for its sheer iconic status. Just manage your expectations, and you’ll still walk away with some incredible memories (and photos).
2. Bicycle Adventures
Cycling is the primary mode of transport on La Digue, adding to its charm. We rented bikes for $10 per day from a local vendor. The island’s flat roads make it easy to explore hidden beaches and scenic spots.
3. Grand Anse
Grand Anse left us absolutely speechless.
This was hands down the most stunning blue water we’ve ever seen—more inviting than even the Maldives (don’t even try to come at us for saying this). The vibrant color felt almost unreal, making it an incredible shot for any photographer. But here’s the thing—this beach is strictly for viewing only.
The waves are massive, wild, and downright dangerous. Even dipping your toes felt like a challenge. Nadia (and a few other brave souls) gave it a go, but it quickly became clear there was no chance. The ocean here commands serious respect—it’s a force of nature that could sweep anyone off their feet in seconds. Even the strongest swimmers wouldn’t stand a chance! Check out our Instagram soon for a video that shows just how powerful it is.
Despite the water being off-limits (well, not technically, but for your own safety, it should be), Grand Anse is still a must-visit. The beach itself is stunning, with a long, wide stretch of powdery white sand that feels endless. There’s also a rustic beach bar where you can grab a fresh coconut or something cold to sip on while soaking up the sun. If you’re in the mood to relax, read a good book, or just admire the incredible scenery, this is the perfect spot.
4. Local Dining
When it comes to food and dining in La Digue, there’s a mix of options to explore. Most of the hotels on the island have in-house restaurants, which are open to the public. So, even if you’re not staying at a particular hotel, you can still pop in and enjoy a meal. There are also plenty of local spots scattered across the island, offering a more casual, authentic dining experience.
That said, it’s important to note that La Digue was the most expensive of the three islands we visited, and the cost of food, particularly at restaurants, was noticeably high. Whether you’re dining at a hotel or a local eatery, be prepared to splurge a bit more on your meals here.
5. Free Open-Air Events
If you’re lucky, you’ll also get to enjoy free open-air events in the center of La Digue. During our visit, we were fortunate to attend a free Praise and Worship concert. As born-again believers, this was a truly moving and beautiful experience. It was one of those spontaneous moments that added an unexpected layer of joy to our trip.
Practical Tips for La Digue
- Rent bikes for your stay: Now, a quick tip about getting around La Digue: cars aren’t available for hire on the island, and honestly, once you get there, you’ll understand why. The island is small enough to navigate easily by bicycle, but big enough that you’ll want a few days to fully take it all in. Renting a bike is the best way to get around, and you’ll want to have one for the entirety of your stay. While hourly rentals are an option, it’s much cheaper and more convenient to rent a bike daily. Trust us, this way you can explore at your own pace without watching the clock. Plus, cycling through the lush greenery and along the coastal paths adds to the adventure and charm of La Digue.
- Pack light: With the steep paths and cycling, lighter luggage is more manageable.
Final Thoughts
You Need More Than a Day on La Digue
While many say a day trip is enough for La Digue, we strongly disagree. You absolutely need at least four days to soak it all in. The island’s underdeveloped vibe might initially seem like it could be a hassle, but trust us—it’s exactly what makes it so special. There’s something about the simplicity of life here that makes you feel relaxed in a way that’s hard to put into words. It’s so different from home that you completely forget how life “should” be and start embracing how life is.
The Unique Charm of La Digue
La Digue’s charm lies in its simplicity and natural beauty. Although our accommodation wasn’t ideal, the island’s unique landscapes and slow pace more than made up for it. The lack of flashy resorts and tourist overload adds to its charm, allowing you to truly unwind and appreciate the island’s raw, unspoiled beauty.
Our Honest Thoughts on Seychelles’ Prices
If you’ve been following along from the beginning of our Seychelles series, you’ll know that our first impressions of the Seychelles were, well, underwhelming. Not because it wasn’t beautiful—it absolutely was—but because we felt the prices were hard to justify.
Sure, the flights to Seychelles aren’t outrageously expensive, and it’s marketed as a relatively accessible destination, but once you’re there, the cost of everything feels disproportionate to what you get in return. And just to clarify, we’re not talking about fancy hotels or fine dining here. We stayed in modest accommodations and ate at casual places, yet we still felt the pinch. So, if we’re calling it expensive under those conditions, that should say something.
Zero Regrets though
That being said, we have zero regrets about our trip to the Seychelles. Honestly, who ever regrets traveling? You either have the best time, or you learn a really expensive lesson, right? We soaked up the sun, the ocean, and most importantly, that feeling. (Again, we can’t really explain it, but there’s something about the vibe you get when visiting a tropical island—it just hits differently.)
Would We Go Back?
Would we do it again? If we got invited on a brand trip, absolutely, we wouldn’t hesitate. But if it meant spending our own money? Probably not.
Should You Visit the Seychelles?
Should you spend your money visiting the Seychelles? Well, that’s a decision only you can make. Hopefully, this series has given you a better sense of what to expect and whether it’s worth it for you. While the islands are undeniably beautiful, the cost can feel steep compared to what you get in return. Take your time, read through the entire series, and weigh your priorities—whether it’s the beaches, the adventure, or the tropical island vibe, you’ll know if this is the right destination for you.
Until our next post, keep #roamingwiththekolbes!
With love,
The Kolbes
*While some of our posts may contain affiliate links, this post does not. Roaming with the Kolbes has no affiliation to the people or entities linked in this post and receives no commission from writing this article. These are our personal experiences and the links contained herein are included for convenience only. It’s important to note that our blog posts always provide a genuine and authentic account of our personal experiences. Our travels remain unsponsored unless specifically indicated otherwise. Your trust in our authenticity is our top priority.
