Reconnect with Roots: A Family Adventure in La Digue

A Day of Wonders on Praslin

Today, Praslin unveiled its magic, offering a day filled with natural wonders and culinary delights. From the ancient forests of Vallée de Mai, Praslin, Seychelles to the pristine shores of Anse Lazio, every moment was a testament to the island's breathtaking beauty. I'm so excited to share these experiences with you, as they perfectly capture the essence of our family adventure in the Seychelles.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Island Cafe in Grand Anse. The aroma of Creole spices filled the air, and I couldn't resist ordering a traditional Seychellois breakfast of grilled fish with coconut sauce. Hans, ever the adventurous eater, opted for the spicy octopus salad. I must admit, the Island Cafe is indeed a culinary gem, known for its vibrant Creole cuisine. It’s a charming eatery that invites you to immerse yourself in the rich flavors and aromas of Seychelles' traditional dishes, and a perfect spot for both casual dining and special occasions.


Experience authentic Creole flavors at Island Cafe in Grand Anse Village - a culinary treasure nestled in paradise.

Fueled and ready, we set off to explore the legendary Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As we stepped into this primeval forest, I felt like I was transported back in time. The towering coco de mer palms created a cathedral-like canopy, filtering the sunlight into dappled patterns on the forest floor. Hans was immediately captivated by the sheer size of the coco de mer fruits, marveling at their unique shapes and the stories behind them. I recalled tales from my childhood in Anse Boileau, where the coco de mer was revered as a symbol of fertility and mystery. It was wonderful to share these stories with Hans, connecting him to my Seychellois roots.


Discover the unique Coco de Mer palms and vibrant wildlife at Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Baie Ste Anne, Seychelles.

We decided to explore the Vallée de Mai without a guide, wanting to lose ourselves in the tranquility of the forest. The well-marked trails made it easy to navigate, and the informational signs provided fascinating insights into the unique flora and fauna. I was particularly thrilled to spot a Seychelles black parrot, its dark plumage blending seamlessly with the shadows of the forest. Hans, with his keen eye for detail, pointed out a giant bronze gecko clinging to a coco de mer catkin, a rare sight indeed. The Vallée de Mai is truly a living remnant of the ancient palm forests on Praslin, and contains the Seychelles' largest intact forest of the endemic coco de mer palm. Millions of years of isolation have led to the evolution of many unique species in this forest that are found nowhere else in the world.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

After our enchanting forest adventure, we were ready for some beach time. Anse Lazio, often hailed as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, beckoned us with its pristine white sand and turquoise waters. As we arrived, the sight of the dramatic granite boulders framing the beach took my breath away. It was even more stunning than I remembered from my childhood visits.


Experience the unparalleled beauty of Anse Lazio in Seychelles, where pristine beaches meet lush landscapes and vibrant marine life.

We spent the afternoon swimming in the crystal-clear water, snorkeling along the coral reefs, and simply basking in the sun. Hans, always the active one, rented snorkeling gear and explored the vibrant marine life. I preferred to relax on the beach, soaking up the warmth of the sun and listening to the gentle lapping of the waves. It was pure bliss. Anse Lazio offers a stunning beach experience with pristine white sand and turquoise waters. Visitors can expect varying levels of crowds and should be aware of safety considerations. Snorkeling at Anse Lazio is a popular activity due to the crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life.

For lunch, we decided to try The Deck Restaurant, known for its delightful lunches with breathtaking ocean views. The Deck Restaurant is a hidden gem located on the stunning Anse Soleil beach in Mahe, Seychelles. This charming eatery is renowned for its laid-back atmosphere and spectacular ocean views, making it an ideal spot for tourists looking to unwind while savoring delicious local cuisine. I opted for a grilled fish salad, while Hans chose a seafood platter. The food was fresh and delicious, and the view was simply unbeatable. It was the perfect spot to unwind and savor the beauty of Anse Lazio.


Experience exquisite dining at The Deck Restaurant in Mahé with breathtaking ocean views and delightful local flavors.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to our guesthouse, but not before stopping at Emma's Boutique. I wanted to find a special souvenir to remind me of our time in Praslin. Emma's Boutique, nestled in the lively streets of Victoria, stands out as a premier destination for fashion lovers. This boutique offers an exquisite selection of clothing that reflects the vibrant culture and style of the Seychelles. I found a beautiful hand-painted silk scarf, adorned with vibrant tropical flowers. It was the perfect memento of our island adventure. This boutique is the brainchild of Emma, a passionate fashion enthusiast with a deep love for Seychelles, and who's vision was to create a space that celebrated both the natural beauty of the Seychelles islands and the beauty of fashion.


Discover unique fashion treasures at Emma's Boutique in Victoria, where local charm meets stylish clothing for every occasion.

For dinner, we decided to indulge in a fine dining experience at Paris Seychelles. Paris Seychelles is, as the name suggests, a restaurant offering French and Creole cuisine mixed and matched. You will be taken on a culinary journey in this upmarket restaurant. The restaurant offers a unique fusion of French and Creole cuisine, infused with the rich culinary heritage of Seychelles, influenced by both African and Asian flavours. We savored the delicate flavors of French cuisine with a Creole twist, accompanied by a bottle of crisp white wine. The ambiance was romantic and elegant, a perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience exquisite dining at Paris Seychelles in Bel Ombre - where local flavors meet elegant presentation amidst breathtaking views.

As I reflect on our day in Praslin, I am filled with gratitude for the beauty and wonder of this island. It was a day of enchanted encounters, a day that deepened our connection to nature and to each other. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, when we'll be exploring Curieuse Island and Cote D'Or Beach. I've heard wonderful things about the giant tortoises of Curieuse, and I can't wait to see them up close. We plan to have breakfast at BiBi Take Away & Cafe, lunch at Lo Brizan Seychelles Restaurant and Gallery, and dinner at Bravo Restaurant. And perhaps, if we have time, we'll enjoy a drink at Fruita Cabana Bar. Until then, bonsoir from La Digue!

Today was a reminder of why I started this blog – to share the magic of the Seychelles with the world. And to reconnect with my roots, sharing the beauty of my homeland with Hans.