Discover the charm of Seychelles on La Digue at L’Union Estate, where history, nature, and culture blend seamlessly.

Discovering the Charm of Seychelles: Exploring La Digue and L’Union Estate

Seychelles is known for its beautiful landscapes, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture. Among the many attractions that draw tourists to this island nation is La Digue, an island known for its pristine beaches, lush forests, and unique way of life. One of the must-visit sites on La Digue is L’Union Estate, a historic plantation that features traditional Creole architecture, a vanilla plantation, and a giant tortoise pen.

At L’Union Estate, visitors can take a step back in time and experience Seychelles’ rich history and culture. The estate dates back to the early colonial period when the French first settled on the island. The plantation was established in the late 1800s and was used to produce copra, a coconut-derived product that was widely used at the time.

Today, the estate has been preserved as a heritage site and is open to visitors who want to learn more about Seychelles’ past. The estate’s main attraction is the traditional Creole house, which is a stunning example of the architectural style that was popular during the colonial period. The house is made of wood and features a steeply pitched roof, wide verandas, and louvered windows that allow for plenty of natural light and ventilation.

Inside the house, visitors can explore a small museum that showcases the estate’s history and the traditional way of life on La Digue. The museum features displays of antique furniture, photographs, and artifacts that provide a glimpse into the island’s past. Visitors can also watch demonstrations of traditional crafts such as weaving and woodworking.

One of the most fascinating aspects of L’Union Estate is the vanilla plantation. Vanilla was introduced to Seychelles in the 19th century, and L’Union Estate was one of the first places where it was cultivated. Today, the plantation is still in operation, and visitors can see the vanilla vines growing and learn about the process of harvesting and curing the beans.

The estate also boasts a giant tortoise pen, which is home to dozens of Aldabra giant tortoises. These massive creatures are a symbol of Seychelles’ unique wildlife and are a popular attraction for visitors to the island. Visitors can observe the tortoises as they roam around their enclosure, grazing on grass and basking in the sun.

In addition to the historic house, museum, vanilla plantation, and tortoise pen, L’Union Estate also has a beautiful garden that showcases some of Seychelles’ native plants and flowers. The garden is a peaceful oasis where visitors can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the island.

Overall, L’Union Estate is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience Seychelles’ rich history and culture. The estate’s traditional Creole house, museum, vanilla plantation, tortoise pen, and garden offer a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past and present. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique and memorable experience, L’Union Estate is not to be missed.