In the Seychelles: how to get there, what to see and where to stay

Anse Source d'Argent on La Digue - is one of the most famous beaches not only in the Seychelles, but in the whole world. It is recognised by its huge granite boulders, white sand and turquoise lagoon, which have become a symbol of the archipelago. This is where global brands shoot advertising campaigns, photo sessions take place and those very postcards that many people associate with the Seychelles are created.

Despite its worldwide fame, Anse Source d'Argent remains more than just a beautiful photo location. Thanks to the coral reef, there are almost no strong waves here, while the calm lagoon is excellent for swimming, snorkelling and relaxed beach time. If you are planning a trip to La Digue, this beach is definitely worth including in your itinerary.

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What Anse Source d'Argent is famous for

The main feature of the beach is its unusual granite rocks, which are millions of years old. Under the influence of wind and ocean, they have taken on unusual shapes, creating one of the most recognisable natural landscapes in the world.

The lagoon itself is no less impressive. The coral reef protects the coast from high waves, so the water remains calm and clear for most of the year. While walking, you can see small tropical fish, crabs and other marine life, and in sunny weather the water takes on a rich turquoise colour.

The beach is often used for wedding ceremonies and photo shoots, but even with many visitors it is easy to find more secluded corners among the granite boulders.

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Can you swim and snorkel here

Anse Source d'Argent is considered one of the best beaches on La Digue for calm swimming. Thanks to the reef, strong waves are rare here and the depth increases gradually from the shore, making the beach suitable for families with children as well.

At high tide, the lagoon becomes convenient for swimming and snorkelling. In the shallow water, you can see small corals, colourful fish and other marine life. At low tide, the water recedes noticeably, rocks and patches of seaweed appear in places, so aqua shoes are useful for walking along the shore.

Fans of active recreation can rent transparent kayaks and paddleboards on the beach.

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When is the best time to visit

Anse Source d'Argent is one of the most popular attractions in the Seychelles, so by the middle of the day there are significantly more visitors.

The best time for a walk is in the morning, just after L'Union Estate opens. At this time there are fewer people on the beach, the light is softer for photos and it is more comfortable before the daytime heat begins.

If the main purpose of your visit is swimming and snorkelling, it is worth checking the tide times before coming. At high tide the lagoon looks especially picturesque and swimming conditions are the most comfortable.

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What to see near Anse Source d'Argent

The beach is located within the historic L'Union Estate, so the trip can conveniently be combined with a visit to one of the most interesting attractions on La Digue.

While walking around the estate, you can see:

• a traditional plantation house preserved from the colonial era;
• a coconut mill where coconut oil was once produced;
• a vanilla plantation introducing one of the best-known agricultural crops of the Seychelles;
• an enclosure with Aldabra giant tortoises, which can be seen up close.

The entrance ticket to L'Union Estate also gives access to Anse Source d'Argent beach. That is why most travellers spend not one but several hours here, combining a walk around the historic estate with relaxation by the ocean.

Entrance fee to the estate and beach is about 150 Seychellois rupees (approximately 10 US dollars) for foreign tourists.

If time allows, after Anse Source d'Argent you can continue along the coast. In the south of the island are Grand Anse, Petite Anse and Anse Cocos beaches. They are noticeably different from the calm lagoon of Anse Source d'Argent: here there is open ocean, stronger waves and fewer tourists.

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How to get to Anse Source d'Argent

The most popular form of transport on La Digue is the bicycle. Distances are short here, and almost all the main attractions are connected by convenient roads and cycling routes.

The beach is located within L'Union Estate, about a 10-15 minute bicycle ride from the jetty where ferries arrive from Praslin and Mahé. If you wish, you can also get here by electric cart or walk if you are staying nearby.

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Hotels near Anse Source d'Argent

Most hotels on La Digue are just a few minutes by bicycle from the beach, so getting here is easy regardless of the accommodation you choose.

• Etoile Labrine - one of the closest guesthouses to Anse Source d'Argent. The complex consists of cosy chalets surrounded by a tropical garden, while the restaurant serves breakfast and dinner.
• Agnes' Cottage - Emerald - a small guesthouse near La Réunion Beach. Anse Source d'Argent can be reached by bicycle in about five minutes.
• Le Domaine de L'Orangeraie - one of the best-known resorts on La Digue, with spacious villas, a spa and swimming pool. A good choice for a romantic holiday.
• La Digue Island Lodge - a hotel near Anse La Réunion beach, offering rooms and bungalows in a tropical garden. From here it is convenient to explore almost the entire island.

Anse Source d'Argent is one of the reasons many travellers include La Digue in their Seychelles itinerary. Even if you have known photos of this beach for a long time, its granite rocks, clear lagoon and peaceful atmosphere are even more impressive in reality.

Le Domaine de L'Orangeraie