Grande Montagne Nature Reserve

Published on : 2023 - Mar - 04

In category : About Mauritius | Attractions | Mauritius Destination Guide | What to do | What to see
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Mauritius Blog @Mauritius101.com.

Features information that is relevant to travellers who are thinking about and actively planning a visit to Mauritus.

Grande Montagne Nature Reserve
Grande Montagne Nature Reserve

This nature reserve, one of the last remaining stands of forest on Rodrigues, crowns the island's summit. It is located in the high , in the central eastern part of Rodrigues.

The Mauritian Wildlife Foundation has planted more than 200,000 native plant species across more than 25 hectares. Around 84% of the 25.5 ha fenced area at Grande Montagne has been restored to date and the aim of MWF is to complete the initial restoration of this reserve within the next few years. Over 156,516 plants have been planted in the reserve by MWF. So far 40 rare Rodriguan plant species are successfully conserved on Grande Montagne.

Grande Montagne Nature Reserve
Grande Montagne Nature Reserve

The population of the has been increased to reach 8,000 individuals, whilst 4,000 have been added as a part of the habitat restoration on Grande Montagne.

The restoration of this ecosystem has ensured the survival of the Rodrigues fody and the Rodrigues warbler bird species, as well as the Rodrigues . The reserve is also the only remaining habitat of the endemic Rodrigues Aloe.

The reserve is included in the Rodrigues Environmental Education Programme where students visit and are taught about the reserve and its importance.

The MWF runs free guided tours weekdays and Saturdays. You can get the useful (and free) Grande Montagne Nature Reserve Field Guide from the information centre at the entrance to help you with plant and bird identification.

Grande Montagne Nature Reserve
Grande Montagne Nature Reserve

Tours are conducted at 9.30 a.m and 1.15 p.m from Monday to Friday and at 9.30 a.m on Saturday. The tour lasts for about two hours.
 
At about ¾ of the trail there is a view point where you'll get one of the best panoramic views of the southeast coast. At the education center you can view a display of the and giant tortoise skeletons.

One section also serves as a little tortoise park where you'll get to see five tortoises roaming about freely.

Tags: Adventure, Attraction, fruit bat, Grand Montagne mountains, Mauritius, Rodrigues Fody, Rodrigues Warbler, Solitaire bird, The Mauritian Wildlife Foundation, Tourist Destination, What to see
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The Domaine De Labourdonnais

The Domaine De Labourdonnais

2024 - Nov - 2 | , , , ,

The Domaine De Labourdonnais

The Domaine de Labourdonnais is a historic destination in Mauritius. It has multiple activities revolving around its exceptional natural and cultural heritage. It has become a diversified business comprising four core activities: Leisure, Sports & Wellness, Agriculture & Processing and Real Estate.

Domaine de Labourdonnais is famous for its Château, a real jewel of the Mauritian heritage. Built in 1856, the Château de Labourdonnais was inhabited by a Mauritian family for over 150 years. In 2006 Château de Labourdonnais underwent major restoration works to be restored to its former glory. Today,  Domaine de Labourdonnais has become one of the most attractive cultural places to visit in Mauritius. The whole estate, especially the Château, reflects the 19th-century art of living in Mauritius.

Château de Labourdonnais
Château de Labourdonnais

The path leading up to the Château is lined on both sides by Intendance trees (Ficus Retusa). Not only is the Domaine de Labourdonnais more than a simple tourist attraction but it has become a highly coveted place to live and work in the North of Mauritius.

The visit to the Château ends at the tasting bar, where visitors can taste the 100% Mauritian products manufactured at Les Vergers de Labourdonnais and La Distillerie de Labourdonnais. After tasting the  in-house rum, the visitors can then bring home in a souvenir bottle. Visitors can also enjoy the experience aboard the Labourdonnais Express, a little train that travels through the estate.

Labourdonnais Express
Labourdonnais Express

The visitors can have breakfast and lunch at La Terrasse, a café offering both Mauritian and European dishes. Alternatively, taste the gastronomic cuisine prepared by Italian chef at La Table du Château. This restaurant also offers catering services comprising refined and personalized menus for all types of receptions, including a wide selection of appetizers and more gastronomic dishes.

Visitors can also stock up on Domaine de Labourdonnais products, available at La Corbeille, a delicatessen offering a large selection of local, artisanal and organic products.

Domaine de Labourdonnais also offers Château’s gardens or restaurant for weddings, corporate events and other receptions. The Ernest Wiehe conference room is ideal for professional events like conventions, exhibitions, seminars or training courses. Old houses have also been renovated into offices, available for rent to all kinds of businesses.

Tags: Adventure, Attraction, Château de Labourdonnais, Intendance trees, La Corbeille, La Distillerie de Labourdonnais, La Table du Château, La Terrasse, Les Vergers de Labourdonnais, Mauritius, Sea Walk, The Domaine De Labourdonnais, The Ernest Wiehe conference room, Tourist Destination, Underwater, What to see
Mauritius Zip line Adventure

Mauritius Zip line Adventure

2024 - Oct - 19 | , , , ,

Chamouny Zip line

There are several zip lines suitable for adventure seekers in Mauritius.
CHAZAL ecotourisme
In the middle of the green hills of the south of Mauritius, there is a marvelous garden called CHAZAL. Here you will find the long zip line of 400 meters, followed by two shorter ones at 180 and 110 meters respectively. The zip line is managed by a company called Rodrig Adventure (commonly known as Tyrodrig). While you are riding the zip line you will get stunning views of the green valleys, along with the stunning ocean at Montagne Malgache.

In addition to zip-lines trekking, you can enjoy walks in the hunting reserve, walks along a suspension bridge (at Cascade Pistache), bungee jumping (at Cascade Pistache) and Via Ferrata (at Montagne Tonnerre).

hazal Ecotourism
Chazal Ecotourism

Chamouny Zip line
Located somewhere in the Mauritian outback, in the middle of sugar cane and close to the woods, the zip line is suitable for even the kids (7 and 9) to master the thrilling zip lines from one side of the river to the other. Swimming below the cascade is also great, but don’t forget your insect repellent.

Ferney Valley
Ferney Valley consists of  7 zip lines of different lengths, heights, and speed. These zip lines were originally created for biologists who were trying to observe animal life without disturbing it and making it too obvious. Children from the age of 12 can enjoy these zip line rides.

hazal Ecotourism
hazal Ecotourism

Vallée des Couleurs
From the zip lines you will get to discover the beautiful scenery of the South Coast of Mauritius, including the entire nature park, its waterfalls and canyons from high above.

There are several zip lines of different length (500m, 1.5 km (single line), 1.6 km (7 lines) or 3.1 km) with professional guides to help you. You will also get a chance to view a fantastic land of 23 Coloured Earths, the canyon, and the forest from high above.

The park’s restaurant La Citronnelle offers  a 3 course set lunch menu (Starter, Main Course, Side Dish, Dessert and a Drink).

Nepalese Bridge Zip line

You have a choice of 1 zip line or a combo of 3. The 3 zip lines feature a 240 m Zip-Line, a 300 m Zip-Line and a 260 m Zip-Line.
From these zip lines you will enjoy remarkable views of the entire canyon, landscapes, waterfalls and forest from high above.

Nepalese Bridge is wooden platforms suspended by solid ropes high above the lush tropical green forests. The zip lines will take you close to wildlife and nature as you cross the outstanding 220-metre long Nepalese Bridge. You can also take a free visit of the endemic forest surrounded by ebony trees aged over 300 years.

Tags: Adventure, Attraction, Cascade Pistache, Chamouny Zip line, CHAZAL ecotourisme, Ferney Valley, La Citronnelle, Mauritius, Montagne Malgache, Montagne Tonnerr, Nepalese Bridge, Rodrig Adventure, Tourist Destination, Tyrodrig, Vallée des Couleurs, Via Ferrata, What to see
St Francois Beach

St Francois Beach

2024 - Oct - 5 | , , , ,

St Francois Beach

St Francois Beach is one of the best beaches in Rodrigues, and also the longest. It is located off the east coast of Rodrigues Island.

Stretching over 700 meters of soft white sand and peaceful waters, the beach is empty most of the time and visited only by a handful of people mainly on Sundays.

St Francois beach is also one of the main starting points for hiking to Trou D’Argent.  There are a couple of restaurants serving delicious local dishes, a few budget guesthouses, and a 4-star resort close by. The octopus curry is a classic Rodriguan dish.

Traditional Net Fishing
Traditional Net Fishing

Auberge St Francois is a budget guesthouse located right across St Francois Beach. Some rooms can accommodate up to 6 people and are equipped with a private bathroom, kettle, and mini-fridge. Cheaper rooms have a fan while others have air-conditioning and a private balcony. There are only two restaurants nearby but you can order breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the guesthouse. 

The Market
The Market

Tags: Adventure, Attraction, Auberge St Francois, Mauritius, Rodrigues island, Sea Walk, St Francois beach, Tourist Destination, Trou d’Argent, Underwater, What to see
Rodrigues Jardin des 5 Sens

Rodrigues Jardin des 5 Sens

2024 - Sep - 21 | , , , ,

Rodrigues Jardin des 5 Sens

This is an enchanting botanical garden, located in the center of Rodrigues island. The garden is filled with Rodriguan flora with endemic fruit trees, aromatic and medicinal plants and flowers, which are unique in the world.

The small botanical garden appeals to all five senses: you’ll see vivid colors, hear the local birds singing, smell the sweet fragrances of exotic flowers, get in touch with nature (literally), and even taste some of the natural spices growing in the garden.

Jardin des 5 Sens
Jardin des 5 Sens

The guided tour takes about an hour, which is interactive and educational. You will learn about the legends, medicinal virtues and culinary benefits of plants that grow up in the Rodriguan fertile soil.

Reception
Reception

Tags: Adventure, Attraction, Mauritius, Sea Walk, Tourist Destination, Underwater, What to see
Anse Mourouk

Anse Mourouk

2024 - Sep - 7 | , , , ,

Anse Mourouk

Anse Mourouk is another white sandy beach in Mourouk village in Rodrigues. The ocean is mostly shallow and the sea bottom is flat making it one of the best kitesurfing spots on the island. This is also where the Rodrigues International Kite Surf Festival is held annually. This Kite Festival is an event created and organized by the Rodrigues Kitesurf Association with the support of the Ministry of Tourism, Rodrigues Regional Assembly and the sponsors.

Kite Surf Festival
Kite Surf Festival

Balanced by a constant wind almost all year round, the kitesurf spot, Anse Mourouk’ is ideally located on a shallow turquoise lagoon for the practice of this sliding sport in complete safety in exceptional sailing conditions.

During this competition, Rodrigues will be vibrating to the rhythm of its kitesurf festival. Many experienced kitesurfing enthusiasts as well as experienced amateurs from the islands of the region and other parts of the world will perform for five days challenging each other in impressive aerial figures out of the waves.

There are many kitesurfing schools on the island which shows the popularity of kitesurfing in the region.

Kite Surf Festival
Kite Surf Festival

Tags: Adventure, Anse Mourouk, Attraction, International Kite Surf Festival, Mauritius, Rodrigues Kitesurf Association, Sea Walk, Tourist Destination, Underwater, What to see
Pointe Cotton Beach

Pointe Cotton Beach

2024 - Aug - 24 | , , , ,

Pointe Cotton Beach

Pointe Cotton Beach is a popular beach in Rodrigues with sharp corals in the water. It will be good to wear water shoes for a more enjoyable swim. The beach, which is almost always deserted, is among the most beautiful beaches in the island.

The shallow lagoon that encircles the island is bordered by a protecting coral reef; 18 small islets lie within it. While Mont Limon and Mont Lubin, two volcanic peaks, stand guard over the island.

You can also take a walk along the right side of the beach to explore the large coral outcrop. The landscape there is completely different with strong wind and huge waves crashing against the cliffs. Rock formations of coral origin and shady casuarina groves surrounding the beach serve not only as a spectacular background, but also as reliable protection from strong winds.

Cotton Dive Centre
Cotton Dive Centre

The area of the island where the beach is located is replete with resorts and restaurants for every taste and budget.

The coastal shallow water guarantees a safe family vacation with the kids. Active leisure enthusiasts can go swimming, parasailing, banana boating and water skiing. A pristine turquoise lagoon with coral reefs is for scuba diving fans.

About an hour’s walk from Pointe Coton on the East Coast takes you to the cove of Trou d’Argent, a charming little sandy beach sheltered by two magnificent cliffs.

Cotton Bay Resort
Cotton Bay Resort

Cotton Bay Hotel is the nearest hotel. It is only 200 meters from the beach. It is a three star hotel. Tekoma Boutik Hotel Rodrigues is a 4-star hotel which is 1.3 kiliometres from the beach.

Tags: Adventure, Attraction, banana boating, Cotton Bay Hotel, Mauritius, parasailing, Pointe Cotton Beach, Rodrigues, scuba diving, Sea Walk, swimming, Tekoma Boutik Hotel, Tourist Destination, Trou d'Argent, Underwater, water skiing, What to see
Ile aux Aigrettes

Ile aux Aigrettes

2024 - Aug - 10 | , , ,

Trou aux Cerfs

Île aux Aigrettes is a tiny coral island (27 hectares) just off the coast of the town of Mahebourg. It is the largest islet in the Grand Port bay, 850 meters off the south-east coast of Mauritius and roughly a kilometer from the coastal town of Mahebourg.

ocal species of ebony
Local species of ebony

The island has been declared a nature conservation site and today is being preserved by the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation. It is also a popular visitor attraction – both for tourists and for Mauritians.

Gastonia mauritiana
Gastonia mauritiana

This island is considered an international standard for the protection of natural resources and endangered species.

A few of the world’s rarest birds, including the kestrel, Pink Pigeon, the Green Gecko Phelsuma and the Aldabra giant tortoise can be seen here. Eighteen Mauritian plant species which grow on the island are classified as endangered or very rare.

Pink Pigeon
Pink Pigeon

One of the local species of ebony, Diospyros egrettarum (named after the island) is found here.

Aldabra giant tortoise
Aldabra giant tortoise

Gastonia mauritiana (“Bois boeuf”) forming part of the forest canopy here.

A non-indigenous Aldabra giant tortoise was brought to Île aux Aigrettes to take over the ecological role of the extinct Mauritian tortoises.

Tags: Adventure, Attraction, Mauritius, Tourist Destination, What to see
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