Journey Through Time
Discover La Digue’s Enriching History & Heritage
An Immersive Journey into the Island’s Past
L’Union Estate is a living heritage site where nature, culture, and history come together on La Digue. Once a thriving plantation, the estate today offers visitors a deeper connection to the island’s roots through preserved landmarks, traditional agriculture, and timeless architecture. It also serves as the gateway to the world-famous Anse Source d’Argent beach.
The park can be accessed on foot or car drop off. However the favorite mode of transportation is on bicycles; a 15 minute ride from the jetty. The experience is enhanced as you cycle through the park’s historic landmarks.
Getting There
The park has an entrance fee of SCR.150 for foreign nationals. The pass is valid for one day, however, if purchased after 4.30pm it is valid for the next day. Visitors staying for more than 5 days on the island benefit from a special rate.
Entrance Fee
The park is open every Monday to Sunday from 6.00am to 6.00pm. It remains open on public holidays and during the festive season which allows entrance after 6.00pm to enjoy the different art and light installations.
Opening Hours
Historic Landmarks
L’Union Estate is home to several preserved landmarks that have been recognised as national monuments, reflecting the island’s historical and cultural importance. Key sites include the former plantation house, once the centre of estate life, the Old Pier and La Digue’s oldest cemetery, where the first settlers lays to rest. All these landmarks has been preserved over decades and tells stories of a once thriving plantation.
Coconut Oil Production
Once the heart of La Digue’s economy, coconut oil production played a vital role in island life. After harvesting and de-husking, coconut kernels were slowly dried in the copra kiln, a wood-fueled structure where they remained for two to three days to become copra. The dried copra was then processed in the ox-driven copra mill, locally known as moulin kopra, where oil was extracted. This traditional mill stands today as a powerful symbol of La Digue’s manufacturing heritage and early coconut industry.
Vanilla Plantation
The vanilla plantation is also part of L’Union Estate’s agricultural past, where vanilla was grown alongside other crops on the land. The vines are laid out in clear rows, and visitors can explore on foot or by bike while learning how vanilla is traditionally cultivated.
The Gentle Giants
Giant Aldabra tortoises roam at the foot of a towering granite monolith estimated to be around 750 million years old. Endemic to the Seychelles, one of the largest population resides here inside the park where you can feed and interact with them.
Takamaka Rum Tasting
Takamaka Rum became part of the L’Union Estate experience in late 2025, introducing a new attraction rooted in Seychellois craftsmanship. Visitors can explore the Takamaka showroom and gift shop inside the historic Plantation House, before heading to the Rum Tasting Bar at the Pirogue Shed. The experience offers a chance to sample local rum while learning about one of Seychelles’ most recognised brands.
Souvenirs & Local Crafts
Throughout the estate, small shops and a dedicated art gallery offer locally made crafts, artwork, and souvenirs inspired by island life. These pieces are created by Seychellois artisans and provide visitors with the opportunity to take home something meaningful, while supporting local creativity and traditional skills.
Taste of Creole Cuisine
A melting pot of flavors and cultures, Creole food reflects a long tradition of adaptation and shared knowledge. At L’Union Estate, this culinary heritage can be enjoyed through local dishes made with local ingredients, offering visitors a relaxed and satisfying break while exploring the park.
Anse Source D’Argent
Anse Source d’Argent is known as the most photographed beach in the world, famous for its striking granite rock formations, white sand, and shallow turquoise waters. Accessible through L’Union Estate, the beach is a starting point for coastal walks and hikes to other beaches such as Anse Marron, as well as the famous crystal-clear kayaking tours.
