Devil's Island

(Local Name: Île du Diable) Île du Diable (Devil's Island), the smallest and southernmost of the Îles du Salut, was used largely for political prisoners. The island's name became synonymous with the horrors of the penal system.

Devil's Island is approached with difficulty due to its rocky shore. The inmates were often left without guards, since strong currents and sharks made a getaway virtually impossible. Dead convicts were buried at sea.

The penal colonies were phased out between 1938 and 1951 and now amid the atmospheric ruins of the island's old prison buildings are an abundant assortment of wildlife and foliage.

A restored museum is open for visits and the small hotel, the