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L'Union Estate
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Historical site
L'Union Estate on La Digue island is a living open-air museum that has a deep insight into the colonial agricultural history of the Seychelles. The estate houses a traditional copra mill, which is still operated by an ox to extract coconut oil using historic methods. Visitors can tour the plantation house, one of the oldest buildings on the island, which once served as the administrative heart of the local coconut economy. The sprawling grounds also feature a giant tortoise enclosure and the historic cemetery of the early settlers of La Digue. Furthermore, the estate serves as the only land access to the world-renowned Anse Source d'Argent beach, famous for its spectacular granite formations. The combination of historical architecture, traditional crafts, and natural beauty makes L'Union Estate an essential destination for cultural tourism. It vividly demonstrates the transition from a plantation economy to modern tourism while preserving the important cultural traditions of the archipelago.
- Location: Seychelles
- Top sights: Anse Source d'Argent · vanilla plantations · Giant Union Rock
- Nearby: Consolation (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 28 | 28 | 29 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 214 | 110 | 111 | 115 | 90 | 88 | 59 | 69 | 115 | 119 | 126 | 163 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The historic plantation can be visited, with some buildings set up as a museum. Visitors gain insights into colonial agriculture and copra production.
Typical hours
The estate is usually open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. On Sundays and holidays, hours may vary.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the estate. In the museum buildings, flash must be avoided to protect the historical exhibits.
Time needed
A walk around the plantation and museum takes about one hour. If you also explore the gardens and the adjacent coastal area, allow 90 minutes.
Combine with
The plantation is on La Digue and combines perfectly with the famous Anse Source d'Argent beach. A bicycle tour around the island is also recommended.
Getting there
La Digue is reached by ferry from Praslin or Mahé. On the island, the best way to get to the estate is by bicycle or oxcart.
Insider tip
Rent a bicycle at the La Digue jetty to explore the island flexibly. Bring swimwear, as the plantation is close to beautiful beaches.
Geography
Facts
- Features the historic 'Plantation House', one of the oldest structures on La Digue.
- The traditional copra mill is still powered by an ox to produce coconut oil.
- The estate is the designated land access point to Anse Source d'Argent beach.
- A large enclosure for Aldabra giant tortoises is located within the grounds.
- The cemetery of the original settler families of La Digue is preserved here.
- Vanilla and coconuts are still cultivated on the estate for visitors to observe.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town L'Union Estate (10)
Giant Tortoise
A giant tortoise enclosure at L'Union Estate.
Point de vue sur Anse Source d'argent
Viewpoint overlooking Anse Source d'Argent beach.
Anse Pierrot
A beach on La Digue island.
Anse aux Cedres
A beach on La Digue island.
Snorkeling place
A snorkeling spot off the coast of La Digue.
Pointe Grand Anse
A viewpoint at the headland of Grand Anse on La Digue.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What can you see at L'Union Estate?
The estate features a vanilla plantation, giant tortoises, and a traditional copra mill.
Is L'Union Estate family-friendly?
Absolutely, children especially enjoy the giant tortoises and the spacious, safe grounds.
When is the best time to visit?
In the morning it is cooler and you can better observe the activities on the plantation.
How much time should I plan for?
Allow about 2 to 3 hours to explore everything at a relaxed pace.
Are there food options available?
Yes, there are small cafes and restaurants offering local snacks and drinks.
L'Union Estate: where is it located?
L'Union Estate is located in Seychelles.
L'Union Estate: what is there to see?
Highlights include Anse Source d'Argent, vanilla plantations, Giant Union Rock.
L'Union Estate: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
L'Union Estate: why is it worth visiting?
L'Union Estate on La Digue island is a living open-air museum that has a deep insight into the colonial agricultural history of the Seychelles.
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History & landmarks
More places
Anse Source d'Argent
This beach on La Digue is world-famous for its spectacular granite boulders shaped by time and its shallow, calm waters.
La Digue Vanilla Plantations
Traditional cultivation areas on La Digue where the precious vanilla orchid thrives alongside other crops.
Veuve Nature Reserve
A crucial protected area on La Digue that serves as the last sanctuary for the rare Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher.
Belle Vue
A picturesque viewpoint halfway up Nid d'Aigle on La Digue, famous for sunsets.
Eustache Sarde's House
One of the few remaining traditional wooden houses on La Digue, showcasing early 20th-century Creole architecture.
Nid d'Aigle (Eagle's Nest)
The highest point on La Digue Island, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the neighboring islands of Praslin and Felicité.
Félicité Island
A picturesque granitic island near La Digue, characterized by steep cliffs and dense tropical forest.
Grann Kaz (Frégate Island)
A historic plantation house on Frégate Island, carefully restored to preserve the atmosphere of the colonial era.