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L'Union Estate La Digue Seychelles

2.9
·243 reviews·Anse Reunion, Seychelles

Explore L'Union Estate, home to the world-famous Anse Source d'Argent beach and gentle giant tortoises.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Low tide mornings

Easier access to beach

CrowdMedium
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to the beach

L'Union Estate La Digue Seychelles

Best Time

Low tide mornings

Easier access to beach

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore L'Union Estate, home to the world-famous Anse Source d'Argent beach and gentle giant tortoises.

2.9
(243 reviews)

"The most photographed beach in the world, with unique granite boulders and shallow turquoise waters."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bike rental is key! 🚲

Rent a bike to explore the estate and reach Anse Source d'Argent easily. It's the best way to see everything!

Understand the entrance fee

The SCR 115 fee grants access to Anse Source d'Argent and the estate's attractions.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Anse Source d'Argent

Anse Source d'Argent

Southwest Coast of La Digue

World-renowned beach with stunning granite boulders and shallow turquoise waters. The most photographed beach globally!

Giant Aldabra Tortoises

Giant Aldabra Tortoises

L'Union Estate Park

Encounter these gentle giants roaming freely within the estate. A truly unique and memorable wildlife experience.

Historic Coconut Plantation

Historic Coconut Plantation

L'Union Estate Park

Wander through lush coconut groves and learn about traditional copra production. A glimpse into Seychelles' colonial past.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the L'Union Estate Entrance Fee

Accessing the famous Anse Source d'Argent requires an entrance fee to L'Union Estate. While some find it steep, it supports the park's upkeep and offers access to unique attractions like giant tortoises and historical plantations. Consider it an investment in experiencing La Digue's iconic beauty.

Best Ways to Explore L'Union Estate

Biking is the most popular way to traverse L'Union Estate and reach Anse Source d'Argent. Renting a bike allows you to cover more ground and enjoy the scenic coconut groves at your own pace. Be prepared for a fee to enter the estate, which grants access to the beach and other historical sites.

Best Times

When
Low tide mornings
Why
Easier access to beach
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

𝟰𝗞 𝗠𝗢𝗡𝗧𝗛𝗟𝗬 𝗗𝗢𝗪𝗡𝗣𝗔𝗬𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧! 𝗦𝗔𝗬𝗢 𝗡𝗔 𝗧𝗢!🏠🤗 𝗣𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗞𝗔 𝗔𝗙𝗙𝗢𝗥𝗗𝗔𝗕𝗟𝗘 𝗡𝗔 𝟰 𝗕𝗘𝗗𝗥𝗢𝗢𝗠𝗦 𝗦𝗔 𝗖𝗔𝗩𝗜𝗧𝗘! 𝗧𝗛𝗥𝗨 𝗣𝗔𝗚𝗜𝗕𝗜𝗚 𝗣𝗔! 😍 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝗻 Tanza, 𝗖𝗮𝘃𝗶𝘁𝗲 Lot Area 50sqm Floor Area 94sqm 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗙𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀 🏠3 Storey Townhouse 🛌Provision for 3 to 4 Bedrooms 🛀3 Toilet & Bath 🚘Car Garage Gaano 𝗞𝗔𝗚𝗔𝗡𝗗𝗔 𝗟𝗢𝗖𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡? ✅ Near SM Tanza ✅ Near Puregold Tanza ✅ Near Tanza Public Market ✅ Less than an hour to Manila via CAVITEX! For tripp...
@myrent2ownhouse
106.5K likes • 3.6M views

Bike rental is key! 🚲

Rent a bike to explore the estate and reach Anse Source d'Argent easily. It's the best way to see everything! Instagram

Understand the entrance fee

The SCR 115 fee grants access to Anse Source d'Argent and the estate's attractions. Instagram

Si vous vous demandiez encore pourquoi la Réunion est souvent surnommée « l’île intense », je pense que vous comprendrez un peu mieux avec cette vidéo 🤩 On se répète mais, la variété de paysages sur cette île est tout simplement incroyable ! En près de deux semaines à La Réunion, on aura découvert un panel de tout ce qui se fait de plus beaux en matière de paysages : des plages en passant par le...
@ouramdream
33K likes • 410.7K views
Located on the southern end of the village of Le Réunion on La Digue, L'Union Estate Park gives visitors a glimpse of the island's colonial history. Here visitors can visit the former coconut and vanilla plantation, see how a copra mill works, as well as visit the cemetery of the first settlers. In addition to the green nature, visitors will also find Aldabra giant tortoises enjoying fresh leaves ...
seyvillas
183 likes • 4.2K views

Watch out for low tide

Low tide can reveal alternative paths, but be mindful of leaving your bike behind. Reddit

Pack for the sun! 🌞

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially when exploring the open estate. TikTok

Theo fed his friend Mr Tortoise some leaves… 🇸🇨 📍L’Union Estate- La Digue, Seychelles 🇸🇨 🇸🇨 🇸🇨 #ladigue #seychelles #lunionestate #africawkids2024
michaelwtravels
24 likes • 182 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Bike rental is key! 🚲

Rent a bike to explore the estate and reach Anse Source d'Argent easily. It's the best way to see everything! Instagram

Understand the entrance fee

The SCR 115 fee grants access to Anse Source d'Argent and the estate's attractions. Instagram

Watch out for low tide

Low tide can reveal alternative paths, but be mindful of leaving your bike behind. Reddit

Pack for the sun! 🌞

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially when exploring the open estate. TikTok

Respect the wildlife 🐢

Feed the giant tortoises only approved leaves and avoid disturbing them. Instagram

What Travellers Say

2.9
(243 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally praise L'Union Estate for its access to the stunning Anse Source d'Argent and the unique experience of seeing giant tortoises and historic plantations. However, some find the entrance fee steep and note that the estate's upkeep could be improved, with occasional issues of litter.

"I don't understand people who are complaining about 9eur fee as is it not true you don't have anything to see isinde. There are giant turtles, mini botanic garden and nature overall. Even if there is nothing, 9eur is worth for paying to go through nice nature instead of searching for alternative ways. Let be honest: you pay more for one coctail or some street food than this. You already given hundreds of euros for aiplane and who knows how much for apartment and you are complaining about 9eur? I really don't understand people."

Velx

"This is a HUGE SCAM. If you want to go to the beach to see the rocks and take pictures there, don't go through the park entrance. They want your money just to walk through. Just walk on the beach for free
And wank back on the beach. I was going through the park and they wanted to see my ticket. You don't talk to them. Just continue walking. They try to intimidate you to stop and talk and pay their entrance fee for what? Just walking through to see the rocks. It is not their rocks or beach. They just want to take money for you walking there. And they have nothing to offer."

Jerko Jalsovec

"Perfect day on the Anse Source d'Argent, La Digue Island, Seychelles we had to pay the renowned 150scr entrance/person this is why only 3 stars. I wish they would take more care: like get rid of garbage, bring more bins, make an exchange cabin etc. I saw some showers so at least that was a good addition. About people who say you can go around.. it is true but when is low tide, and you have to leave your bike behind which is also time waste...👍"

Angel Nastase

What People Like

Iconic Anse Source d'Argent
Giant tortoises
Historic plantation

What People Dislike

Entrance fee cost
Estate upkeep

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

L'Union Estate is located on the southern end of La Digue. The most common way to reach it is by renting a bicycle, which is readily available on the island. You can also walk, but biking is recommended to cover the distances efficiently. Instagram

Private car traffic is restricted on La Digue. The primary modes of transport are bicycles and ox-carts. You'll need to rent a bike to explore the estate and reach Anse Source d'Argent. Instagram

La Digue has limited public transport. Renting a bicycle is the most practical and popular way to get around and access L'Union Estate. Instagram

The ferry terminal on La Digue is relatively close to the main village. From there, it's a pleasant bike ride of about 15-20 minutes to reach L'Union Estate, depending on your pace. Instagram

Some travelers suggest attempting to walk along the beach to bypass the entrance fee, especially during low tide. However, this can be challenging and may not always be feasible. The fee is for accessing the estate and its amenities. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee for L'Union Estate is typically around SCR 115 per person. This fee grants you access to the estate, including the historic plantation, giant tortoises, and the world-famous Anse Source d'Argent beach. Instagram

Yes, the entrance fee is per person and is required for each entry into L'Union Estate, which is the only access point to Anse Source d'Argent. Some visitors find it worthwhile for the overall experience. Reddit

The fee covers access to the estate's grounds, including the coconut and vanilla plantations, the historic copra mill, the cemetery of the first settlers, and the enclosure for Aldabra Giant Tortoises. It also provides access to Anse Source d'Argent. Instagram

Information on discounts is not widely publicized. It's advisable to check with local ticket vendors or at the entrance for any potential offers, though typically the fee is fixed per person. Reddit

L'Union Estate is generally open daily from morning until late afternoon, allowing visitors ample time to explore. It's best to check locally for the most up-to-date hours, especially if you plan to stay for sunset at Anse Source d'Argent. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

L'Union Estate offers a variety of attractions, including a historic coconut plantation, a copra mill demonstration, a cemetery of early settlers, and an enclosure for giant Aldabra tortoises. It's also the gateway to Anse Source d'Argent. Instagram

For many, Anse Source d'Argent is a must-see due to its iconic beauty and unique rock formations. While some find the fee high, others believe it's worth it for the experience and to support the estate. InstagramReddit

Yes, Anse Source d'Argent has shallow, clear lagoons perfect for swimming and wading. The calm waters make it ideal for families. Instagram

Yes, there are restrooms available within the estate. Some reviews mention showers being present, which can be useful after a day at the beach. Reddit

Visiting in the late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light for photography. However, it's also the busiest time. Mornings, especially during low tide, can offer a more serene experience. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The granite boulders and shallow waters of Anse Source d'Argent are incredibly photogenic. The coconut groves and the giant tortoises at L'Union Estate also offer unique photo opportunities. Instagram+1

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's always best to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone over L'Union Estate or Anse Source d'Argent. Instagram

The 'golden hour' just before sunset provides stunning light for photography. However, early morning can offer fewer crowds and softer light. Instagram

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming might require special permissions. Always be respectful of other visitors. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and rock formations. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife, like the tortoises. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

L'Union Estate is a fantastic destination for families. The shallow, calm waters of Anse Source d'Argent are perfect for children to splash and play safely. Instagram The opportunity to see and even feed the giant Aldabra tortoises is a huge hit with kids, offering an exciting educational experience. Instagram Renting bicycles as a family allows for an adventurous way to explore the estate's coconut groves and historical sites. Remember to pack plenty of sunscreen and snacks, as facilities can be basic. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, L'Union Estate and Anse Source d'Argent are a paradise. The unique granite formations, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation provide endless composition opportunities. Instagram Visiting during the golden hour before sunset or early morning will yield the most dramatic and beautiful light. Instagram Don't forget to capture the majestic giant tortoises and the historic plantation elements for a diverse portfolio. Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Budget-Conscious Travelers

While L'Union Estate has an entrance fee, some travelers suggest exploring ways to access Anse Source d'Argent by walking along the beach, especially during low tide, to potentially avoid the fee. Reddit However, this can be challenging. If you do pay the fee, make the most of it by exploring all the estate has to offer – the tortoises, the plantation, and the beach – to maximize value. Reddit Renting a bike is generally more affordable than other transport options on La Digue. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Anse Source d'Argent

Anse Source d'Argent is consistently lauded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and for good reason. Its defining features are the massive, weathered granite boulders that dot the shoreline, creating a surreal and picturesque landscape. The shallow, crystal-clear turquoise waters are perfect for wading and offer a serene swimming experience, especially during low tide. It's no wonder this beach is a photographer's dream, with its unique geological formations and vibrant colors. Instagram+1

Access to Anse Source d'Argent is exclusively through L'Union Estate, which requires an entrance fee. While some visitors debate the cost, the unparalleled beauty and the opportunity to explore the surrounding estate often make it a worthwhile expense. The beach is popular, so visiting during off-peak hours or low tide can enhance the experience. Reddit+1

Remember to bring your camera and be prepared for breathtaking views. The interplay of light on the granite and water creates magical moments, particularly during sunrise and sunset. Instagram+1

Exploring L'Union Estate's History and Nature

Beyond its role as the gateway to Anse Source d'Argent, L'Union Estate is a significant historical site on La Digue. It preserves the island's colonial past with its former coconut and vanilla plantations. Visitors can witness how copra (dried coconut flesh) is processed at the traditional copra mill, offering a tangible connection to the island's agricultural heritage. Instagram

The estate is also home to a colony of Aldabra Giant Tortoises. These magnificent creatures roam freely within designated areas, providing an incredible opportunity for visitors to observe them up close. Feeding them is often permitted with approved leaves, making for a memorable interaction. InstagramReddit

Walking or cycling through the estate's lush grounds, shaded by towering coconut trees, is an experience in itself. You'll also find the cemetery of the first settlers, adding another layer of historical depth to your visit. While the estate is rich in history and nature, some reviews mention that certain areas might show signs of wear or litter, which can detract from the overall pristine image. Reddit