La Digue Island Lodge is one of the island’s most established places to stay, and it keeps the slow, bicycle-friendly spirit of La Digue. It stands at Anse La Réunion, close to the ferry harbour and the church, in a leafy setting near a national park, and it is a three-class property with 89 rooms spread across several buildings. The mix is unusual: adults-only Yellow House and garden rooms, A-frame chalets in the garden or near the beach, one- and two-bedroom beach houses, a two-bedroom beach villa and larger apartments that can sleep up to ten. That variety makes it a flexible choice for couples, families and groups. Facilities are simple and island-style. There are two restaurants, a poolside bar and a lounge, a children’s pool, a spa offering massage and other treatments, an art gallery, a garden and terrace, barbecue grills and bicycle rental. Beach towels are provided, and a free area shuttle runs between the main building and the separate beach bungalows at breakfast and dinner times. Rooms have air conditioning, a safe, a fridge and a kettle with tea and coffee. Wifi is free in public areas, though some guests find the connection patchy.
Location and getting around
The lodge is about two kilometres from the ferry harbour, and a short walk from La Digue’s church, marina and the Anse La Réunion beach. There are no cars to speak of on La Digue, so most visitors hire a bicycle and pedal to Anse Source d’Argent, which is about a ten-minute drive or a longer cycle away, and to Anse Severe, a few minutes by car.
The hotel has no on-site parking, and ox-cart and bicycle taxis are part of the local scene. Ferries from Praslin and Mahé arrive daily, and the lodge can help with onward arrangements.
The rooms
The A-frame chalets are the signature accommodation, with the beach chalets nearest the water. The beach houses suit families, and the larger apartment suites can sleep big groups. The Yellow House is adults only and not ideal for guests who have trouble with stairs. Because the property has several buildings and an annex some distance away, ask where your room is, and whether it is near the main restaurants or the beach.
Things to do
Borrow or rent a bicycle and visit Source d’Argent, the L’Union Estate with its giant tortoises and copra mill, and the Veuve Reserve, home of the endangered paradise flycatcher. The pool and beach are good for lazy afternoons, and the spa is useful after a day of cycling. Dinner can be taken on site or in local restaurants nearby, and the Marmit restaurant has a dress code.
Who it suits and what to know: La Digue Island Lodge suits independent travellers, couples and families who like a historic, characterful property and a quiet pace of life. It is not polished or high-tech, and guest feedback is mixed on service and wifi, so set expectations accordingly. Breakfast is charged separately on some rates, and cards are the usual payment method. Book ahead for peak months. The calmer, drier season, with lighter winds, is from about April to October, though prices vary across the year.
Why stay here
- ✓Six-minute walk to Anse La Réunion Beach
- ✓A-frame chalets and beach houses
- ✓Two restaurants and a poolside bar
- ✓Swimming pool and children’s pool
- ✓Spa treatments
- ✓Bicycle rental
- ✓Free area shuttle between buildings
- ✓Garden, terrace and art gallery
Good questions
Where is La Digue Island Lodge?+
It is at Anse La Réunion on La Digue, near the church and marina and about a six-minute walk from the beach. The ferry harbour is within about two kilometres.
Can I rent a bicycle?+
Yes, bicycle rental is available at the lodge, and cycling is the main way to get around La Digue. Source d’Argent is a short ride away.
Are there room types for families?+
Yes, there are one- and two-bedroom beach houses, a two-bedroom villa and larger apartments. The Yellow House and garden rooms are adults only.
