A large number of reefs within the inner granitic islands of the archipelago of Seychelles could be entirely lost, unless concerted action is taken soon to control crown of thorns, warns Dr. Udo Englhardt, the expert on on the management of crown of thorns in a...
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Moyenne Island
Moyenne Island was purchased in 1962 by a British national and newspaper editor Brendon Grimshaw for around £10,000. Grimshaw lived alone on the island until 2012 when he died aged 87. After Grimshaw purchased the island, he and a local youth René Antoine Lafortune planted sixteen thousand trees, built 4.8 kilometers of nature paths, and brought and bred Aldabra giant tortoises, intending to create an island of extraordinary beauty. Apart from a wide variety of plant and bird life, the island is home to around 120 giant tortoises. In 2012, according to Grimshaw, the eldest was 76 and was named Desmond, after his godson.
He permanently moved to the island in 1972. He then set up a water supply, electricity, and a phone line on the island. Many thought he might turn the island into a resort but he wanted to build a nature reserve.
Grimshaw’s father
Grimshaw invited his father to live with him after his mother’s death and he did. According to Grimshaw, “They became best of friends.” His father passed away 5 years later. However, Lafortune also used to live on the island and they allowed people to visit the island during the day for a small fee. In 2007 when Lafortune also passed away.
Grimshaw gives the island to the Government
Grimshaw, who was 81, knew that he had little time left to decide the fate of the island. He set up a trust and signed an agreement with Seychelles’ Ministry of Environment. It became Moyenne Island National Park, known as the world’s smallest national park.
During his time there he turned down an offer of £24 million to buy the island and instead developed Moyenne into a nature sanctuary. He also ensured its status as a nature reserve in its own right and further development has been prohibited.
Grimshaw’s book and and documentary film about him
In 1996, Grimshaw wrote a book about himself and the island, entitled A Grain of Sand. In 2009, a documentary film was produced about Grimshaw and the island, also called, A Grain of Sand. Lafortune died in 2007 and Grimshaw died in Victoria, Mahé, in July 2012 when he was 86. He was buried next to his father on the island. His tombstone reads, “Moyenne taught him to open his eyes to the beauty around him and say thank you to God.”
Park Management
Moyenne Island is owned by Terrestrial National Park and managed by the Moyenne Foundation Society. The island is now known as the Moyenne Island National Park. In 2013, after the island received its own national park status, a new hut was built and a warden was posted on the island, collecting the entrance fee from tourists.
Moyenne is one of the smallest of Seychelles’ inner islands: it measures just 0.4km long and barely 0.3km wide, and its coastline runs for less than 2km. Its highest point rises to an altitude of just 61m above the water’s edge. It is in the Sainte Anne Marine National Park off the north coast of Mahé, Seychelles
Moyenne Island Beach is one of the least crowded beaches in the Seychelles. Even during peak tourist season, there are rarely more than 50 visitors on the island at any one time, and never more than 300 over the course of a day. You can have a private spot of your own on the beach.
The Jolly Roger
The Jolly Roger, a restaurant, founded by Grimshaw and his longtime partner, Rene Antoine Lafortune, serves local dishes like grilled fish and seafood curries in a red Creole sauce.
There is also a small museum dedicated to Grimshaw’s life and two nurseries for giant tortoise hatchlings. Apart from these Moyenne remains undeveloped. The island has no jetty and arriving here you wade ashore, barefoot, through the shallows.
Flora and fauna
On the island, there are 16,000 trees – mahogany, palm, mango, pawpaw – planted by Grimshaw. By one estimate, Moyenne has more plant species per sq m than any other national park in the world.
Every now and then, you may find your path blocked by one of Moyenne’s nearly 50 free-range giant Aldabra tortoises. They’re in no hurry, and nor should you be as you watch them pass. Back in the shallows and by the beaches at Pirate’s Cove, watch for hawksbill turtles that often come ashore to nest.
Seychelles Golf Clubs
Seychelles, popular for its exquisite beaches and turquoise-colored waters, is getting more and more attention as a golf destination. There are two golf clubs in Seychelles. The Seychelles Golf Club is located on the main island of Mahe. The other, The Lemuria Golf Course is located on the second-most populated island of Praslin.
Seychelles Golf Club
The 9-hole golf course was founded in 1972. It is located at Anse Aux Pins on the southeastern side of the main island of Mahe. It is only around 10 minutes from the Seychelles International Airport at Pointe Larue. The club is surrounded by luxuriant green hills. It is spread over 50 acres of what was once a mangrove swamp together with a coconut plantation.
The course is open daily from 8.00 a.m. No bookings are required except on Thursdays and Saturdays. The entry fee for 9 holes is SCR 300 (USD 23) and for 18 holes is SCR 500 (USD 37). The club allows temporary memberships (one to four weeks). The club has a bar that has DSTV cable channels, a pool table, a cafeteria restaurant that serves snacks, fast food, and full meals, tennis courts, and a swimming pool.
Being a 9-hole golf course you are able to play as an 18-hole, but the front 9 and back 9 are played from different tee boxes, in total, the course measures 4559 meters if played as an 18-hole course. The tight fairways with a lack of roll gained on tee shots and small greens could make the par 67 quite a challenge for the unsuspecting visitor.
Lemuria Golf Course
This golf course, operated by the Constance Lemuria Resort, located in the island of Praslin, was designed by renowned American architect Rodney Wright under the influence of the French champion Marc Antoine Farry. It takes a 25-minute flight or a 2-hour boat ride from Mahe to reach the golf course. It was opened in 2000 and was renovated in 2016.
It is the only 18-hole course in Seychelles. The first 12 holes sit over the sweeping greens of the Grand Anse Kerlan, leaving the last six holes elevated offering breathtaking views. From hole 13 onward the sport becomes challenging which is an uphill par four and a lake towards the right side. Enthusiasts can also get lessons from professionals. The course is 5556 m (70 par) long and is a part of the luxurious 101-hectare spread of the Constance Lemuria on Praslin Island.
The course opens at 8:30 AM. The lowest green prices on weekdays are SCR 1850 and on weekends SCR 1750. The highest green fee is SCR 2180. It pays to stay in Constance Lemuria Resort as entry is free for hotel guests. Four restaurants and five bars in the Constance Lemuria Resort are open to golf course visitors. Trollies and Caddies are available on request. Car services are compulsory and payable.
Constance Lemuria Resort
This is a 5* deluxe resort hotel, where golf, spa, leisure, and relaxation are fused in the most beautiful natural environment, and one that is surely the equal of any other worldwide luxury golf holiday delight. Constance Lemuria is a 5-minute drive from Praslin Airport.
There are four restaurants and five bars and free WiFi access. The restaurants offer a variety of local and international dishes, with both buffet and á la carte options. The bars allow guests to choose among different atmospheres and scenarios to have some entertainment during the day or simply relax after dinner.
All rooms have private bathrooms with bathtubs and a hairdryer. They all include a safe, a satellite TV with a DVD player, and a telephone. The spa at Constance offers a variety of massages and treatments to relax surrounded by bamboo and palm trees. Sports facilities include an 18-hole golf course, 2 tennis courts, snorkeling trips, and windsurfing.
Petite Anse, Mahe
Petite Anse (meaning ‘little cove’), also known as Anse La Liberte, is in the territory of the Four Seasons Resort Seychelles. Entrance to the beach is free for all hotel guests. Outsiders wishing to go to the beach need to get approval in advance from the resort management by phone but the entrance is still free. A second option is to ask at the entrance of the Four Seasons Hotel to get to the beach. Near the western entrance to the beach, locals sell fresh coconuts and juices.
The Beach
The coastline is 200 meters long and 20 meters wide with powder-soft white sand and turquoise waters. Along the perimeter of the beach, there are high granite rocks, which offer scenic views of the bay, boulders, and astoundingly dense tropical vegetation.
Petite Anse beach is only 5 meters away from Four Seasons Resort Seychelles.
Activities
The beach is suitable for beach games, sunbathing, windsurfing, surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and picnicking. The beach is suitable for families, as it has lifeguards around the clock, and the wind is light because there are huge rocky cliffs around the beach that prevent the wind from passing through, and therefore the waves are calm. The best time for swimming, diving, and snorkeling is October and November, as well as the period from February to May. For surfing and sailing, it is advisable to set out from October to March.
Facilities
This is a well-developed beach and has dozens of modern facilities, including luxury hotels, clean toilets, washrooms, restaurants, and cafes that serve the most delicious local and European dishes. Visitors can use the hotel’s beach restaurant for food and drinks.
If you have booked the Four Seasons Hotel there are enough sun-chairs under palm-thatched umbrellas that don´t even disturb the look of the beach.
Access to the beach
However, if you are not staying at Four Seasons you should plan to arrive early to find a spot at the parking place. Once the vehicle is parked, be ready to hike 20 minutes down the trail to reach Petite Anse. Do not forget that a more exhausting uphill journey back to the parking spot is more difficult than walking down to the beach.
Hotels near Petite Anse
Although Four Seasons is convenient, not all can afford it. There are many cheaper options available nearby. A couple of them are given here.
Maison Soleil
Maison Soleil is a three-star guest house within 15 minutes of walking distance from Anse Soleil Beach and Petite Anse Beach. The guest house offers free self-parking, and in-room kitchens, and free WiFi. Other amenities include a snack bar, deli, and laundry facilities. There’s also the convenience of an airport shuttle. Club Liberté Casino is only a stone’s throw away from this property,
Anse Soleil Resort Self Catering
Anse Soleil Resort Self Catering is within 15 minutes of walking distance from Anse Soleil Beach and Petite Anse Beach. There are four villas. All villas are equipped with a coffee maker, refrigerator, microwave, stove top, shower head, and safe. WiFi is available in all public areas. Limited housekeeping is also provided.
Mango House Seychelles, LXR Hotels & Resorts
This is a five-star luxury property that is about 3 kilometers away from Anse Petite beach. It received the prestigious Conde Nast Hot List award in 2022.
Mango House is the former family home of Milanese fashion photographer Gian Paolo Barbieri. Today, it’s a 41-key boutique resort under LXR Hotels & Resorts—Hilton’s indie luxury collection brand.
Each morning cooked-to-order complimentary breakfast is served. There are three restaurants and three swimming pools. The restaurant, Muse, serves Italian cuisine and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Kokoye is the hotel’s own bar.
Anse Major
Anse Major Beach
Anse Major is one of Mahe Island’s most beautiful beaches. Anse Major beach is a pristine, white sand beach with crystal clear, deep, turquoise water. It is located on the northwestern end of Mahe Island in the Seychelles. It’s one of the most remote beaches on the island and it is not accessible via road transport. You have to get there hiking. If you are not comfortable doing the hike yourself, you may book a guided tour.
The Anse Major trail picks up at the end of Bel Ombre Road near the village of Bel Ombre. “Calm Sorento” on Google Maps, is very close to where the Anse Major trailhead begins. To get here, you’ll need to either get a taxi or jump on the bus that runs nearly all the way to the end of Bel Ombre Road from Beau Vallon. If you tell the bus driver you want to hike to Anse Major, he will know where to drop you off. If you are going by car, you should note that there are only 5 parking lots available.Those who are staying at Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort, can just walk the length of Bel Ombre Road to the start of the trail. You can also get to Anse Major beach by boat. You can book a boat through the travel agents or your hotel.
The trail is very well marked and easy to follow. Most of the trail is completely exposed to the sun after about 10am, but there are a few points where it passes through tree cover which gives you some relief. There are lots of mosquitos along the trail, so be equipped with some form of insect repellent. Much of the trail has stunning views down to the ocean below and over to Silhouette Island. As you get closer to the beach, there is a fantastic view point where you can see Anse Major down below. The moderately challenging trail will take about 45 minutes to one hour.
Anse Major snorkeling exploration
You can enter the water anywhere along the sandy beach sheltered by the little bay. At either end of the beach, bedecked with granite rocks, there are excellent opportunities for snorkeling. As you move away from the beach, the water level rises progressively, while the sea bed slopes gently downwards. The water level reaches 12 to 20 feet (4 to 6 meters) in the central part of the area, but is shallower along the rocky areas encircling the bay.
Anse Major reefs are made of well-preserved corals, and full of fish. You might come across emperor, three spot and semicircle angelfish, which count among the most colorful fish species living around Mahé.
The Beach
The small beach is definitely beautiful, with a few palm trees and lots of vegetation all around. The beach is 200m long and covered with fine white sand. Granite cliffs divide the territory into two parts. In the West, the width of the beach reaches 30 m, the Eastern section with a length of about 60 m narrows to 10 m. Close to the shore on three sides, rises a dense tropical forest. The sea bottom is sandy and quite shallow. Cliffs and the forest protect the shore from winds and waves. The beach is perfect for calm rest, swimming, sunbathing and snorkeling. The beach is equipped with a canopy and a toilet.
When to go
The northeastern monsoon season is from December to April when it will be quite hot and humid. The southeast monsoon is from June to October and the humidity decreases significantly, the temperature will be + 27-29 °C. The best time for swimming, diving, snorkeling is October and November, as well as the period from February to May. For surfing and sailing, it is advisable to set out from October to March.
Best hotels of Anse Major
Belle Vacance
Belle Vacance is a 2-star guest house located in Grand Anse. Belle Vacance provides concierge services, clean rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, free WiFi and a garden. Featuring family rooms, this property also provides guests with a grill. The property has room service, a tour desk and currency exchange for guests. The air-conditioned rooms come with a desk, an electric tea pot, a fridge, an oven, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, a terrace and a private bathroom with a shower. The kitchen is equipped with a microwave, a stove top and a toaster.
Breakfast is available daily, and includes à la carte, continental and Asian options.
Diamond Plaza
Diamond Plaza is located in Grand Anse, only a few steps from Grand Anse Praslin Beach, The property has a terrace, free private parking, a restaurant and a bar. The rooms have a balcony, air conditioning, a minibar and a flat-screen TV. Some rooms have a sea view. An à la carte breakfast is available daily at the accommodation.
Casadani Luxury Apartment
Casadani Luxury Apartment is located in Grand Anse, 2.1 km from Anse Kerlan Beach. Free private parking available on site and free WiFi. The apartment has a balcony, 1 bedroom, a living room and a well-equipped kitchen with a fridge and an oven. A TV is available. A continental breakfast is available every morning at the apartment. A paid airport shuttle service is available at this apartment. This property can accommodate up to 4 guests in each unit. Whole Foods Cafe is a 10-minute walk from the apartment.
Casadani Hotel
Casadani Hotel is located close to Anse Major Trail and Beau Vallon Beach. Casadani Hotel provides free breakfast (local cuisine), a round trip airport shuttle, free self-parking and a terrace. It also serves local and international cuisine at the onsite restaurant. All 23 rooms offer comforts such as furnished balconies, free WiFi , air conditioning, in-room refrigerator and separate sitting areas. From the restaurant-terrace you get an amazing view of Silhouette and North Island and also the famous beach of Beau Vallon. This property does not have elevators. There is a casino in the vicinity and also live bands and a discotheque. The hotel has 25 double rooms.
Shopping in Anse Major
There are three shopping malls in Anse Major: Kanna Mall, Abarna Shopping Centre and Oj Mall.
North East Point Beach
Anse Nord d’Est is a collection of smaller beaches in the north-east of the Seychelles’ largest island, Mahé. The beach is renowned for its pristine white sand, crystal clear turquoise waters and lush green vegetation that stretches along the shoreline.
This long stretch of coast is different from other beaches in Mahé. This beach has higher, choppier waves, suitable for experienced swimmers only. The area is excellent for surfing precisely because of these same waves.
This two-kilometer stretch is really a collection of smaller bays, and each is slightly different from the other. Therefore, anyone looking for a lot of variety in the same place will find Anse Nord d’Est to be a great addition to their Seychelles holiday.
North East Point Beach Coastal erosion
North East Point beach nourishment project is the first of its kind to be undertaken here, to protect the beach from coastal erosion. Some 923 tons of sand has already been filled in the 360-metre stretch of beach just opposite the Kreolfleurage Parfums. The pilot project falls under Seychelles’ cooperation with the Japanese government and it is being funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica).
North East Point Beach Activities
Punto Nord Est provides plenty of activities to enjoy such as swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and fishing.
North East Point Beach Access
This stretch of coast is about a 10-minute drive from Victoria There are some areas of parking at the roadside, so you can arrive here by hired car. There is also a bus stop near to the beach, ensuring that even those without a rental car can enjoy this area of the Seychelles’ largest island.
North East Point Beach Facilities
Opposite the beach there is KreolFleurage Perfumes where fragrances are produced on the basis of essential oils from the produces from the region.
North East Point Beach Accommodation
Le Bonheur Villa
Le Bonheur Villa, rated 3 star, is located 1 minute walk from the beach. Featuring free WiFi, a year-round outdoor pool and a barbecue, Le Bonheur Villa offers accommodation in Victoria. Guests can enjoy the on-site bar. Free private parking is available on site.
Certain rooms include views of the sea or pool. Extras include free toiletries and a hair dryer. A flat-screen TV is provided.
The villa offers creole and international dishes.The Chef will discuss with you individual needs with recommendations.
Villa Koket
Villa Koket is just 20 m from the beach in North East Point. It offers modern self-catering apartments. Each air-conditioned apartment includes an open-plan lounge area with cable TV and a kitchen with stove, microwave and fridge. The private bathroom comes with a shower. The villa also offers a breakfast service that can be booked on-site.Other Accommodations
Augueste Holiday Recidence and Phoenix Self Catering Luxury Apartments are two other accommodation facilities nearby. There are homes and houses also available for short stay.
There are some shops for your basic needs. As Mahe is a small island you can try numerous restaurants couple of kilometers away, offering local seafood dishes and other international cuisine.
Anse Soleil Beach
The name “Anse Soleil” which is French, translates to English as “Sunshine Beach”, perfect for an unforgettable island holiday.
Anse Soleil is a beautiful, bright bay with gorgeous golden sand and turquoise-blue water. It is a popular destination among tourists. One of the reasons for the popularity of this beach is the availability of accommodations there.
The beach is not over-crowded, and you can find a suitable private spot for yourself and your family.
Anse Soleil is a truly stunning little beach. It is more than capable of holding its own against what else the country has to offer. In fact, the scenery here rivals any beach you could imagine, with beautiful white sand and crystal-clear water, making it well worth a visit during your Seychelles holiday.
Accommodation Nearby.
Anse Soleil Beachcomber is the only hotel in this beach. Mango House Seychelles, Pineapple Beach Villas, My Paradise, Holiday Home, and Red Coconut Self Catering are other accommodations nearby.
Anse Soleil Beachcomber
Anse Soleil Beachcomber, a small family-owned hotel set in lush tropical surrounds with an unspoiled beach only metres away, is a hidden gem in the idyllic destination of Seychelles. It is located in the district of Baie Lazare on the Southwest coast of Mahe Island.
Beachcomber Standard Rooms
There are five standard rooms, all with a direct view onto the bay and beach which is just steps away.
Each room has its own veranda with chairs and coffee table. The rooms are all well equipped with air-conditioning, a ceiling fan, a safe box, a small refrigerator, tea and coffee making facilities, free WIFI and cable television. Each room has a bathroom with a shower, wash basin and toilet. The bathroom is stocked with complimentary toiletries.
Beachcomber Self-catering Chalets
There are four self-catering chalets, located on a small hill above the main hotel overlooking the bay of Anse Soleil. Each chalet has a private veranda furnished with chairs and coffee table.
The chalets are all equipped with air-conditioning in the bedroom, a ceiling fan in both the bedroom and the living area, a safe box, and free WIFI and cable television.
The chalets are best suited for those who want to do their own cooking. Each chalet has an open plan kitchenette that is equipped with a gas cooker and oven, a refrigerator, a microwave, cooking utensils and tea and coffee making facilities.
Beachcomber Pool Villas
There are six villas, each with their own private pool. The villas are perched on a slope and set in a lush tropical garden. One of the villas has two bed rooms, that can accommodate four adults, and other villas have one bed room. The villa rooms are all equipped with air-conditioning, ceiling fan, a safe box, a small refrigerator, tea and coffee making facilities, free WIFI and cable television. The bathroom has a hairdryer and is stocked with complimentary toiletries.
Beachcomber Restaurant and Bar
Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Breakfast is served only for the residents, but lunch and dinner can be enjoyed by non-resident visitors to the beach.
Four Seasons Resort Seychelles
Four Seasons Resort Seychelles
Four Seasons Resort Seychelles is situated less than 5 m from the beach located on Petite Anse, Baie Lazare. Seychelles International Airport is a 23-minute drive away.
The resort features a spa, fitness center, swimming pool, and a water sports pavilion. WI-Fi and a business center with computer access are available to guests.
Villas
The tree-house-style villas are decorated in Creole style. Hardwood decks and outdoor showers help you embrace the natural surroundings. You can also order 24-hour in-villa dining, perfect for intimate meals.
Each air-conditioned villa has a private infinity pool and a patio. Each villa has a satellite TV, minibar, and tea and coffee-making facilities. The bathroom includes a shower with free toiletries, a bathrobe, and slippers.
Restaurants
Kannel Restaurant offers international cuisine for lunch and Asian and Creole cuisine for dinner. ZEZ restaurant serves an international breakfast with daily specials and a la carte options, and dinner features a modern Mediterranean menu. Kannel Bar serves light snacks, fruit drinks, and cocktails during the day, whilst ZEZ Lounge is open for cocktails, wines, and freshly-made sushi and sashimi.
Koi Japanese Restaurant is a short buggy ride up the slope and offers charming views over the bay. It serves signature sushi rolls.
Spas
The hotel’s spa has a fantastic array of treatments and plenty of specialty yoga classes. Hike up the mountainside and take part in the popular Mountain Meditation class, where you can look out over the breathtaking beach at Petite Anse. In the spa, book in as a couple for a series of indulgent treatments at one of the five massage pavilions.
Kids’ entertainment
For the entertainment of kids, there is a complimentary children’s program.
Four Seasons Resort at Desroches Island
The resort is located on Desroches Island in the southwest of Mahe. The island is located 227 km southwest of Victoria, Seychelles. It is 5.5 km long and has a land area of 4 km2. Along its circumference of 13 km is a beach of fine sand. Conservation on the island is managed by the Island Conservation Society. Desroches is linked by a 35-minute scenic flight from Mahé, departing from Seychelles International Airport (SEZ).
Restaurants
Claudine
At this poolside restaurant inspired by the Mediterranean Riviera, the cuisine combines French and Italian specialties with favorites from Portugal, Greece, and Spain. Breakfast is served from 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM and lunch from 12:00 noon to 3:00 PM, and dinner from
6:30 PM to 10:30 PM.
Specialty Dishes
Every Tuesday ‘LA TOUS KREOLE’ is served. This includes Creole specialties such as octopus curry, coconut rice, grilled meats, and sweet treats. Every Thursday ‘ESSENCE OF LEBANON’ is served. This includes authentic food prepared in the rich culinary traditions of Lebanon with fresh ingredients and a selection of vegan delicacies. Every Sunday ‘SEAFOOD MARKET’ is served. A wide array of fresh, local seafood and sushi is served alongside a Seychellois sunset at Claudine.
The Deli serves delectable bite-size Japanese delicacies.
Lighthouse Lounge is perfect for a pre-dinner sundowner or to unwind with a drink after dinner under the starlit sky.
The Bar at the poolside serves a wide variety of drinks and cocktails.
The Castaway Bar at the beach side serves signature drinks and light snacks.
The Lighthouse serves fresh-caught seafood or dry-aged meat grilled and smoked.
Activities
From jungle trail running, to coral reef snorkel adventures, Desroches offers more than 70 unique activities above and beneath the waves.
Accommodation
Accommodations range from suites and villas to residences, offering elegantly furnished units with decked patios, private pools, and beach access. All units come with a flat-screen television and DVD player while some units feature a modern, fully-equipped kitchen and private pool.
Beach
With over 9 miles of white-sand beaches, you’ll feel like you’ve discovered your own private tropical paradise.
Spa and Wellness
Reach deep relaxation surrounded by exotic flora and fauna, with a natural sense of tranquillity that soothes body and mind.
Other facilities
Other facilities will include a fitness center, teen’s club, ‘Kids for All Seasons ‘ program, and pop-up movie nights, plus a chance to learn about the giant Aldabra tortoise at the island’s dedicated Tortoise Sanctuary.
Meetings & Events
Host spectacular events with family, friends, or colleagues and have the lush forests and picture-perfect beaches practically to yourselves.
Petite Anse Beach in La Digue Island
Petite Anse Beach in La Digue Island
Petite Anse lies next to Grand Anse in the southeast of La Digue island. These two beaches share much in common, including their deep water and lack of a coral reef, but also their beauty and relative anonymity.
The easiest way to get to Petite Anse is through Grand Anse. You make a short trek over a small hill which takes about 15 minutes. This trek may be problematic for those who have limited mobility.
Petite Anse is less busy than Grand Anse, with very only a few visitors on most days, making it great for a secluded, peaceful picnic, playing beach games, and sunbathing.
The nearest parking place is at Grand Anse, where you can leave your bicycle as well.
Signposts there will tell you that it is not safe to swim at Petite Anse. If you are a good swimmer you can venture into the water so long as you do not go far away from the beach. Also, swim only when there are people around so that you can get help if you are in need.
The driftwood shelters and trees provide shelter for children to play and adults to relax.
Toilets and a restaurant are available only in Grand Anse and you should be prepared to walk there.
Petite Anse is no less beautiful than Grand Anse and well worth a visit for its stunning scenery and lack of visitors.
Hotels nearby in La Digue
There are many hotels, homes, and other types of accommodations available on La Digue island. Here is a couple of them.
Le Domaine de L’Orangeraie Resort and Spa
Accommodations
The accommodations here offer guests a minibar, a coffee machine, a balcony, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, air conditioning, and a private bathroom with a shower. Free WiFi is provided throughout the property.
Amenities
Le Domaine de L’Orangeraie features a number of amenities. Two on-site restaurants provide guests with various dining options.
Other resort facilities include 3 bars, an outdoor swimming pool, and a tropical garden. A number of outdoor activities can be enjoyed here, including snorkeling, hiking, swimming, and cycling. A bicycle rental shop is available on the property.
The inter-island ferry is a 5-minute walk from the property. A buggy transfer from La Digue jetty can be arranged for free upon arrival and departure.
La Digue Island Lodge
La Digue Lodge is 500 m from the inter-island ferry and under 3 km from Nid Aigle, the hill offering panoramic views over La Digue and other islands.
Accommodation
The spacious accommodation includes wooden chalets with an aluminum roof, each with a view of the Indian Ocean or gardens. La Digue rooms have a balcony or terrace facing the white sand beach.
Restaurants
Breakfast and dinner are served in the main restaurant. Creole cuisine and seafood feature on the dinner menu. The pool restaurant provides snacks and the bar offers cocktails. Packed lunches can be arranged.
Other facilities
Fishing, snorkeling, and bicycles for rent are available. The hotel can arrange boat tours and give information on walking trails. WiFi is available at reception.
Le Repaire – Boutique Hotel & Restaurant
This property is 5 minute walk from La Digue’s village center and it offers views of Praslin Island.
Each room at Le Repaire is decorated with modern furniture and offers a private balcony, a private bathroom, and a sitting area.
The restaurant offers a menu based on Italian delicacies with a local Seychelles twist. Facing the sea, it is open for both lunch and dinner. Coffee shops and grocery stores can be found in the surrounding area. The ferry pier is less than 10 minute’s walk away, while bicycle rental can be found 700 m from the property.
Nid d’Aigle seychelles
Nid d’Aigle (meaning: ‘The Eagle’s Nest’) is one of the most visited places on La Digue island. A four-kilometer hike goes up to the highest point (333 meters)of the Nid d’Aigle. From there you get a panoramic view of La Digue beaches, Praslin, Felicité, Marianne, the sea, and nearby islands.
Climbing Up
You can take one of the many tour packages available or you can hike yourself. You will also get cultural, botanical, and geographical sights. You will trek through the soft forest floor, granite, and reddish earth. When passing through the forest, you may be able to pick some fresh fruits like Mangoes, Oranges, Golden Apples, and Custard fruits, if they are in season. On your way, you will see creatures up to 30 cm long, including the giant millipede, snails, bugs, and spiders on both sides of the path. You will also see typical plants from this area like cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemongrass.
There is minimal shade available along the trek, therefore it is better to start early in the morning to avoid the sun and heat. You may carry a bottle of water as the journey is dehydrating. A hat also may help.
On the way up near the top there is a cafeteria called Snack Bellevue. After this restaurant, there are only a fifteen minutes walk left.
If you have a mobility problem you can take a taxi up to halfway to the top.
Return Journey
For the return journey, you can either take the same route that you used to climb or walk in the northerly direction. This will go through a number of small footpaths down to the main path and then the valley below. The journey up will take one-and-a-half hours and the return journey will also take about the same amount of time.
Halfway down you may get another panoramic view of “Petite Anse”, and “Grand Anse”.
Down below you will see the fine beaches and turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Those who do snorkeling here will get a treasure trove of marine life. Nid d’Aigle is also a terminus that takes you from La Fayet through the slopes of Mont Blanc. It takes about 45 minutes to get here offering scenic views en route.
When to visit?
La Digue has a tropical climate around the year with high humidity and occasional rain. The hottest period is from March to June. You may also want to avoid the rainy season from November to March as the paths may be slippery.
Accommodation nearby.
Nid’Aigle Lodge
Nid’Aigle Lodge is a private accommodation in a beautiful garden setting, with private parking. The lodge is just by the side of the beach. The lodge is located in Praslin which is 15 minutes drive from the airport. There are groceries and restaurants nearby. European or American breakfast is available on request.
The units have air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a fridge, an electric teapot, a shower, free toiletries, and a closet. All rooms have a private bathroom with a hairdryer, while selected rooms will provide a kitchen with an oven. All guest rooms come with a seating area.
Café des Arts Restaurant
Café des Arts Restaurant
Café des Arts Restaurant has earned its reputation as the best restaurant in Seychelles by creating outstanding mouth-watering dishes served in the most amazing setting. Seafood dishes are the main attractions. Attention to details, fresh ingredients served to perfection, and refined service give this restaurant its reputation.
Cafe des Arts sprawls along Anse Volbert’s beach. Rustic wooden cabanas perch on sandbanks.. The cafe is highly recommended for more private, intimate dining in larger groups.
By day you get a relaxed beach dining experience and by night the whole atmosphere transforms into an elegant high-class restaurant with a sumptuous décor.
The “Blue Octopus Bar” serves cocktails and other drinks. Vegan and vegetarian friendly food are available. The café serves Western, Chinese, Indian and rustic Creole dishes, adding a sophisticated, modern touch. Among the dishes served are grilled fish served with boiled potatoes, steak served with vegetables and many more. Three fish carpaccio, octopus and pumpkin gratin, creamy lobster and steamed grouper makeup just some of the delights on the menu. There’s also an extensive wine list to pair along with cocktails at the bar.
Cafe des Arts menu
A healthy quinoa and grilled vegetable salad sits next to an octopus and pumpkin gratin starter. An “Asian Corner” of sizzling beef tops the “Creole Corner” featuring the elusive local specialty, Kari Sousouri: a spicy fruit bat in a tangy curry sauce. A spicy fruit bat curry should stand out as the most provocative dish on the menu. The octopus gratin with lobster and the tuna carpaccio with a caper, garlic, and olive oil dip are highly recommended. The menu even includes sushi and sashimi. The prices are nevertheless prohibitive..
Cafe des Arts, cocktails and wine
Cafe des Arts serve brisk, strong cocktails effortlessly. The house margarita is alchemy: sharp citrus and fiery tequila crusted in a salt rim. The rooftop deck area is a lovely place for a cocktail.
Opening Hours
From Wednesdays through Mondays, the restaurant is open from 12:00 till 22:00. The cafe is closed on Tuesdays.
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