Unveiling the Wonders: The Best Places to Visit in North Mauritius
Blessed with pristine beaches, lush mountain ranges, historic landmarks and a plethora of wildlife, North Mauritius leaves no stone unturned when it comes to providing visitors with a unique and unforgettable experience. But what are the places that one simply cannot miss on a trip to this exotic locale? Let's dive in and find out!
Grand Bay: The Heartbeat of the North
The Unending Charm of Grand Bay's Beaches
Blessed with warm, turquoise waters and shimmering sandy shores, the beaches of Grand Bay are the epitome of tropical paradise. Sunbathing under the lush palm trees, or simply taking a serene stroll along the beach - these experiences truly make you appreciate the beauty of nature. One of my personal favourites is the La Cuvette Beach, a hidden gem that is less crowded but equally enchanting, providing a perfect escape to read a good book or to soak up the sun.
Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden
Encountering the Garden's Eight-Legged Inhabitants
One cannot talk about the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden without mentioning its smaller, and perhaps less-welcome, inhabitants. I vividly remember spotting many rather large spiders during my visit. It was a startling sight, but it gave me a new appreciation for the biodiversity of this place. However, for the faint-hearted, I'd recommend keeping a keen eye out when exploring the lesser-trodden paths!
The SSR Botanical Garden is a popular spot, so it tends to get busy as the day progresses. If you're anything like me and prefer a quieter stroll, my top tip would be to get there early. The garden opens its doors at 8:30 am, and there's something magical about experiencing it in the soft morning light, with the day's first rays filtering through the leaves.
L'Aventure du Sucre
Unravelling the Story of Sugar
L'Aventure du Sucre is more than just a museum; it's a journey into the sweet heart of Mauritius' history. The island has a long-standing relationship with sugar cane, and this museum elegantly narrates its story. One of my highlights was tasting the different types of sugar and the delicious rum at the end of the tour.
Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice de Cap Malheureux
The Church of a Thousand Photographs
If you're looking for picture-perfect spots during your Mauritius stay, then Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice de Cap Malheureux is the place to be. This quaint little church, with its distinctive red roof, is an iconic spot in North Mauritius. I fondly remember spending a lot of time here, trying to capture the perfect shot of the church with the brilliant blue ocean as the backdrop - unfortunately, it was grey and rainy the morning we went but still, we had a great time and managed to capture some cool shots on the drone.
Bain Boeuf Beach: An Idyllic Spot for a Beach Day
A Perfect Spot for a Picnic
When it comes to idyllic spots for a beach day, Bain Boeuf Beach checks all the boxes. It's clean, quiet, and picturesque. I spent a lovely afternoon spent here, enjoying a picnic lunch under the warm sun. The serene atmosphere makes it a great place to relax, enjoy a good book, or simply watch the waves gently caress the shoreline.
A Safe Haven for Little Swimmers
What makes Bain Boeuf Beach truly stand out is its suitability for children. The waters here are incredibly calm and not deep, making it a safe place for kids to splash about and enjoy some swimming.
Caudan Waterfront
Shopping Galore
The Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis, the capital city, offers a unique blend of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. From high-end boutiques to local crafts, there's something to satisfy every shopping enthusiast.
A Culinary Adventure
Nothing beats a good meal after a day of shopping, and the Caudan Waterfront delivers on that front too. It's a foodie's paradise with various eateries serving local and international cuisine. You won't feel left out at the Caudan Waterfront even as a vegan. Many eateries here offer vegan and vegetarian options, embracing the diversity of dietary preferences.
Well, there you have it - an extensive guide to the best places to visit in North Mauritius. From the vibrant city life at Caudan Waterfront to the serene beaches like Bain Boeuf and Mont Choisy, North Mauritius truly has something for everyone. Its rich history, eclectic cuisine (including fantastic vegan options), and mesmerising natural beauty make it a dream destination for travellers.
Heading to Mauritius?
Purchase my complete interactive Mauritius travel map for only $3 (trust me, it’ll save you hours of research)!
Grab yours here