The E A S T
A coast of exquisite coves and emerald lagoons permanently enhanced by a cool sea breeze. Life goes on at different paces. Between the fishing communities, the local holiday makes and the professionalism at the top hotels of the island.
ILE AUX CERFS
Ile aux cerf is the favourite of many holiday makers.Set on the coast of Trou D’eau Douce,the island can be reached within minutes by boats.Then start the fun of water sports which are so varied.Or simply swim in the transluscent waters .. you would not like to leave it soon..such is the magic of the place - a real pearl in the Mauritian landscape.
THE WATERPARKThe thrill of Giant slides to the pond, smaller slides for children with many amusing activities .This is the waterpark of the East.A whole day may not seem enough to enjoy .always recommended to go with as friend or family just for the sake of sharing the pleasure.
BELLE MAREOne of the finest beaches of the East with many sea activities like undersea walk,parasailing,catamaran sailing water skying and a lot more.The emerald sea is ideal for swinmming. Holiday makers ,tourists and locals alike are always present under the filaos trees which are planted in regular pattern. of colourful beach umbrellas and pareos- clad tourists are common site.
South n E A S T
ILE AUX AIGRETTES
Lying in the turqoise waters of the Bay of Mahebourg,this among those islands reserves that has become an international reference for the protection of fauna and flora.The credit goes to the Mauritius Wildlife Foundation Fund which is struggling for endangered species like the rarest birds, including the Mauritian Kestrel and the Pink Pigeon.
The island also the reserve for indigenous plants like the ebony forest ,home of the long extinct dodo. Among others ,the Aldabra Giant tortoisecan be viewed there.
Guided tour are organised for the public.
The Domaine du Chasseur will fulfill the expectations of eco-tourists.Set amist the Anse Jonchee hills,the place is a haven for Stags, mokeys and boars .The green undergrowth and luxuriant forest calls for a walk. Nature lovers can watch some rare birds like the Mauritian Kestrel Some lodge type bungalows with a restaurant is a good halt.
MAHEBOURGOverlooking the bay of Grand port lies colourful Mahebourg.Originally used as the main port, it receded in importance with the rapid development of Portlouis which became the main harbour and capital of the city. It is off the port of Mahebourg that the British wrenched the island from French dominance after a historic sea battle.However the town has kept its original cachet with a National History meuseum and many landmarks ,reminders of its colonial period.A waterfront has recently been added to uplift the town. A stopover is recommended.
LA VANILLE RESERVE DES MASCAREIGNESThe site with its tall bamboo species and palms is the perfect habitat of a reserve for wild animals In the safety of secure fences,numerous nile crocodiles laze in the idleness typical to them. A collection of fauna which includes the giant Toirtoise, wild pigs monkeys, deers and bats are kept here for the attraction of tourists. An insectarium with multitude of insects include butterfly species from different regions of the world. One can refresh himself in the restaurant on site.
<GRIS GRIS
The wilderness of this spot can only be felt.Standing on the cliff and gazing at the fury of the waves dashing against the rugged cliffs,and as the wind refreshes the face ,one is enthralled vastness of the ocean in front of him. The breath-catching beauty of the cliffs of Gris-Gris has inspired many . Telfair Garden overlooking the sea invites for a rest before proceeding the spectacular Rochester Falls .Here nature has carved large stepped shaped designs on the stones .
West n S O U T H
DOLPHINS
If you happen to sail off the west coast ,around Tamarin you may stand the chance of seeing schools of Dolphins companying the boat.
A mountain winding road leads from Case Noyale village to coloures earths of Chamarel: a surprising series of dunes of contrasting colours. Different Shades of blue, green, red and yellow apparently result from erosion of the volcanic ash. Th neighbouring waterfall of Chamarel rises from the native vegatation with a touch of rare beauty. Some "Tables d'hotes" were recently set up in the Chamarel village, where on cam enjoy typical Mauritian Cuisine.