Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ana, claims that sightings are guaranteed if she goes on a small tour with you - we con-
firm. Other species include terrapins, fruit bats and moorhens. Several walking trails
punctuated with interpretive panels about flora have been set up. There's also a small in-
formation centre.
Beaches
Anse Source d'Argent
Most new arrivals head straight for the beach at Anse Source d'Argent, and we don't
blame them.
This
is the tropical paradise we've all been daydreaming about all winter: a
dazzling white-sand beach backed by naturally sculpted granite boulders that would have
made Henry Moore proud.
Alas, don't expect a Robinson Crusoe experience - it can get pretty crowded here, espe-
cially at high tide when the beach virtually disappears. Another downside: Anse Source
d'Argent is scenic, but not that great for swimming due to the shallow water.
Take note that the path down to Anse Source d'Argent runs through the old L'Union
Estate coconut plantation. In other words, you'll have to pay the Rs 100 or €10 entry fee
(valid for a day) to access the beach.
BEACH
BEACH
Grand Anse
On the southeast coast, Grand Anse is a stunning beach to sun yourself on, and it sees
fewer visitors because of the effort required to get there (though you can easily walk or
cycle the 4km or so from La Passe). One caveat: swimming may be dangerous because of
the strong offshore currents during the southeast monsoon, from April to October.
Petite Anse
North of Grand Anse, the wonderfully dramatic crescent of Petite Anse is accessible on
foot only. Strong riptides make it dangerous for swimming but the peace you find sitting
here under a coconut palm may be as good as it gets on La Digue.
BEACH
BEACH
Anse Cocos
From Petite Anse, you can also take your beach towel further north to the equally scenic
Anse Cocos, which is reached by a rather vague track at the north end of Petite Anse. The
bay here is dazzling to behold - a salt-white strip of sand lapped by turquoise waters.
Backed by casuarina trees and craning palms, it's a gorgeous place to sun yourself. Be-
