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Where to go in Mauritius:
The East coast
The East coast
After an active and busy holiday in Mauritius, there's nothing better than ending on a calmer
note in the East of the island.
Why is that? Well, because the East is remote and underdeveloped. The atmosphere is peaceful, and nature is unspoilt. It's also the least touristy part of the island. But the famous Île aux Cerfs and Belle Mare beach are still very popular with travellers.
In the East, you can relax and take your time!
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East of Mauritius:
Weather and climateThe east coast is fairly exposed to the wind. Temperatures are slightly cooler than on the rest of the island. During the southern hemisphere’s summer, from November to May, the winds make the atmosphere less humid and more bearable. If you don't like a heavy climate, you'll love it here!
The region is rainier than in the North. But don't worry – the rain generally comes in the form of quick, short-lived showers. And the occasional fine sunny day soon makes you forget about the showers. In the East, there are no sunsets, but the sunrises are undeniably beautiful.
Of course, the weather varies throughout the year. Check the temperatures and climate according to the month of the year to find out the best time to go to Mauritius.
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The best beaches in the East
The east of the island is full of white sandy beaches with crystal-clear blue waters:
- Palmar: a long, wild, almost deserted beach.
- Quatre cocos: famous for its clear, calm waters.
- Belle mare: a family beach with a deep lagoon tinged with greens and blues.
- Poste de Flacq: ideal for kayaking or paddle boarding.
- Poste La Fayette: a magnificent beach surrounded by volcanic rocks and mangroves, but unsuitable for children and inexperienced swimmers because of the wind.
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The eastern islands
Imagine yourself on a catamaran, hair blowing in the wind, cocktail in hand and music playing in the background...taking dips in clear water and then enjoying some tasty barbecue for lunch. Head out to sea and explore these amazing places:
- L’île aux cerfs: Probably the most famous little coastal island. There are 2 beach restaurants, an 18-hole golf course and its exclusive restaurant, Flibuste. Relax in the shade under the large filaos trees, snorkel and admire the underwater fauna: nothing could be more soothing.
- Bernache islet: A breathtakingly beautiful islet. Take a break in the lagoon to admire the superb coral and colourful fish with a mask and snorkel.
- Amber Island: A 140-hectare virgin island covered in trees and plants, and inhabited mainly by birds.
Places to visit in the East of the island
If you're visiting the East of the island, it would be a shame to miss these places:
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The Paul & Virginie monument
A statue in memory of Paul and Virginie, characters from a popular Mauritian tale written by Bernardin de St-Pierre. It tells the story of two lovers separated by the death of Virginie in a shipwreck. Paul died of a broken heart shortly afterwards. The story was inspired by a real tragedy, that of the Saint-Géran, which occurred in 1744.
A little anecdote: this is not the only monument paying tribute to them: there is a statue of Paul and Virginie in Curepipe, and another in bronze in Pamplemousses.
Nature activities
The East of Mauritius is a haven of peace where nothing has disturbed the charm of its ancient
villages, or even Mother Nature!
There are several walks to choose from:
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Quatre Soeurs
Enjoy superb walks in this corner of the island, including a beautiful 10km coastal walk between Quatre Soeurs and Bambous Virieux.
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Mare Sarcelle
A shorter, shaded walk to Mare Sarcelle reserve, but should be avoided on overly wet days, as the path is sometimes flooded.
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Bras-d’Eau
Recommended for relaxation, this 497-hectare park features endemic species and historical sites like a 200-year-old well.
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Restaurants
Don't forget to take a break in one of the region's typical restaurants, which have a simple, intimate setting:
- Seasons Restaurant in Quatre Cocos (local cuisine)
- Vicky’s Restaurant in Quatre Cocos (local cuisine)
- Sous le manguier in Trou d'Eau Douce (local cuisine)