Crystal Rock

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Ile aux Fouquets - Mauritius - Ile Maurice
CategoriesEditor's Picks Local Touch Things to do

Magical little pieces of land spread around Mauritius

By Rodney Napaul,

Carried away by the charm of Mauritius, you will be inspired by the myriad of small islands scattered like stardust along its coastline! From north to south, and from east to west, pick an outing that will allow you to explore these idyllic spots. Here we go!

Out towards the northern islands

Gunner’s Quoin is a volcanic island rising 160m above sea level. You don’t have to climb this hardly accessible rocky formation, you can just drop anchor in the surroundings to explore the amazing seabed – all you need is a mask, a snorkel and a pair of flippers! You will certainly spot the iconic tropicbird, flying fish jumping out of the water, and possibly dolphins with a little bit of luck.
Flat Island and Ilot Gabriel are not far from each other and are must-sees. Flat Island is a nature reserve that is home to endemic plant and animal species, as well as a former lighthouse. It is one of the largest islets around Mauritius. The heavenly setting of Ilot Gabriel is perfect for snorkelling and sunbathing. Both islands are situated outside the lagoon and those prone to seasickness should note that the journey may be rough.

A trip off the south-west coast

Ile aux Benitiers - Mauritius - Ile Maurice
At La Gaulette, you can easily find a fisherman who will take you to Ile aux Bénitiers. This two-kilometre-long sand bar is surrounded by a clear blue lagoon. Here happiness lies in simple things like taking a stroll along the white sand beach, enjoying an aperitif in the water or having a nap under the shelter of a filao tree. You can also go for a catamaran outing, including an encounter with dolphins.
Roche-Crystal - Mauritius - Ile Maurice

Further on, you will see the famous Crystal Rock. Standing out in the middle of the lagoon, it looks like a coral or a diamond. But it is the surrounding water that actually glitters in the sunlight! Take a short break for a swim or float on the water under a blue sky before climbing back on board to continue your trip.

An island escapade along the south-east coast

Ile aux Fouquets - Mauritius - Ile Maurice

Ile aux Fouquets (also known as Ile au Phare) lies on the coral reef, between the open sea and the lagoon of Mahebourg. A former island lighthouse and the adjoining lightkeeper’s house were built during the British colonial period and have now been abandoned. This small island tells the history of Mauritius and is a place of rare beauty. You’ll probably want to spend some time there, so take a picnic along!

Ile aux Aigrettes has become emblematic of biodiversity conservation efforts in the country. This small island located in the lagoon at Pointe d’Esny houses some 40 endemic plant species that are characteristic of the flora that once existed in Mauritius. You can also spot the Mauritius Kestrel, the Pink Pigeon and other endemic animal species. Take a guided tour to learn more about the work done on site.

Discovering the eastern islands

Located a short distance from each other, Pointe Bernache and Ile d’Ambre are perhaps less well-known. They are very close to the north-east coast of Mauritius and can be explored by kayak or SUP. Pointe Bernache will appeal more to those who want so spend some idle time relaxing – enjoying lunch by the water, a digestive walk or a nap in a hammock. Ile d’Ambre is less easily accessible and is an excellent place for adventurers who are daring enough to venture into its thick vegetation.
Last but not least, the most coveted of all islands off the coast of Mauritius! Covering nearly 100 hectares, Ile aux Cerfs is a sand bar stretching across the lagoon near the village of Trou d’Eau Douce. The site is very popular with holidaymakers and has become a vibrant location over the years. There is a range of activities including water sports, a golf course, restaurants, bars and shops. If you fancy a calm, tranquil time, a short one-kilometre walk will lead you to a peaceful spot with a fabulous sea view.

Are you craving for a change of scenery? How about exploring the small islands around Mauritius?

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CategoriesEditor's Picks Local Touch Things to do

A road trip along the west coast, between natural and cultural heritage

By Pamela Marie,

You know that you have reached your destination when the hustle and bustle of city life and tourist areas gives way to a feeling of peace and tranquillity. The west coast coastal road from Tamarin to Le Morne offers a delightful drive. So do not hesitate to stop here and there to enjoy the natural and cultural beauty of the surroundings.

The fishermen in Tamarin Bay are tending their nets before going out to sea. Families are also having a picnic with music on the beach while surfers are protecting their skin with sunscreen before taking a plunge.

The trailers are serving dumplings and fried noodles, roti flatbreads and chilli bites. As for the corner shops, they offer other local specialities like boiled peanuts and sweet potato cakes, among others.

It is also one of the most popular spots for swimming with the dolphins.

You can see the saltpans used for small-scale salt harvesting along the coastal road from Tamarin. Some of them are no longer in operation but others continue to produce local salt, which is available in supermarkets.

Be careful not to confuse local products with imported ones (in order to support Mauritian manufacturers)!

Take a little break on the beach at La Preneuse. You can have a swim in the sea, admire Le Morne Brabant mountain in the backdrop or visit the Martello Tower. The guided tour focuses on historical elements related to the monument; some artefacts on display also bear witness to the exciting past of the island and region.

A few minutes away from La Balise Marina, a real estate development of IRS type, a road leads to one of the entries of the Black River Gorges National Park.Nature enthusiasts, hikers and picnickers will love this green haven. The park offers beautiful walks and some of the various trails lead to waterfalls.

La Balise Marina's turnkey ready to live-in new apartment in Black River, Mauritius

On the way to Case Noyale, you may be tempted to turn left towards Chamarel. In addition to stunning views, this village situated on higher ground is also home to a must-see attraction, the Seven Coloured Earth. This intriguing geological site attracts visitors from all over the world.

There are other natural and cultural sites in the surroundings.

In La Gaulette, you can take a tour on a fishing boat to discover the beautiful lagoon, Ile aux Bénitiers and the Crystal Rock. This rock formation looks like a rough diamond rising from the clear blue waters. You can swim over the surrounding sandy shoals before docking at Ile aux Bénitiers for lunch.

Continuing towards Le Morne, you will see mangroves that form marine forests. This very important species helps prevent coastal erosion and provides habitat for a variety of marine wildlife. A kayak trip is one of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of these shrubs.

Mangrove - West Coast Mauritius

The beautiful and imposing Le Morne Brabant mountain stands at the southwestern tip of the island. The site is included in the UNESCO World Heritage list and has become over the years a favourite spot for kitesurfing and hiking.

Legend has it that slaves had taken refuge on the mountaintop and in 1835 when British soldiers approached, fearing to be recaptured they jumped off not knowing that the soldiers were coming to inform them of the abolition of slavery…

Le Morne Brabant

The west coast offers an outstanding blend of authentic places and people with the comfort of modern life and all the necessary amenities at hand: schools, shops, medical and business facilities, and more.

The region’s charm is simply compelling!

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