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Fregate
Named in 1744 for the nesting frigate birds, Fregate is the most easterly and isolated of the granitic islands. Accessible by a 25-minute flight from Mahe, its lore includes possible buried pirate treasure, although the real treasures are the flora and fauna.
The little island is covered with Takamaka, cashew and Indian almond trees and is home to the only several dozen remaining pairs of the Magpie Robin as well as the giant, flightless Tenebrionid Beetle.
It is a walker's paradise with wooded trails through cashew thickets, bamboo glades, citrus and avocado plantations. Visitors also enjoy swimming in coral reef protected waters, snorkeling, fishing and bird watching the nearly 50 interesting species. The only resort on the island is Fregate Island Private.
La Digue
If Praslin is several decades in feel behind Mahe, then La Digue is several centuries behind Praslin. It is the world's perfect place to do absolutely nothing but enjoy perfect tropical beauty and harmony. Possibly the best mode of transportation on La Digue is bicycles...the roads are somewhat uneven as most are still unpaved...but the glides under shady canopies to reach blissful beach solitude are incomparable.
The local population not engaged in tourist services are either fisherman or boat builders, but you won't find a one who won't smile and wave as you bike on by.
This stunning little island is probably the most photographed island in the world. It's 3 hours 15 minutes by schooner from Mahe (currently not running, however) and 30 minutes from Praslin, and is the breeding ground of the rare Black Paradise Flycatcher. The bird watching enthusiast can also spot the Chinese Bittern, Cave Swiftlet and Waxbill. Ox carts are the primary means of transportation, which can take the visitor past old plantation houses, a vanilla plantation, a copra factory and, of course, the incomparable beaches (star of Bacardi ads, swimsuit fashion shoots and countless honeymoon snapshots). These are protected by the surrounding coral reefs together with masses of pink granite rocks, which glow red in the setting sun.
These wild, deserted beaches are excellent for safe swimming, snorkeling and fishing. Ideal for walking, the island can be comfortably circumnavigated at a leisurely amble. This 4th largest island retains all of the charm and tranquility visitors travel halfway around the world to enjoy. |
