Discover Mauritius’ history and authentic sceneries
The journey from the south of Mauritius to Anahita is marked by surprises and picturesque views throughout the coastal road. When leaving Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, you are immersed in an authentic atmosphere that will last all the way to the east of the island!
This region stands out from the rest of the country through its breath-taking views. In fact, Mauritius’ south and south-east regions remain the most preserved boasting lush nature , mountains, spectacular cliffs, tropical forests, and typical local villages – a feast for the eyes!
Before reaching Anahita, a trip through the south-east coastal villages is a must to grasp the peaceful and authentic lifestyle where fishing and agriculture are part of the inhabitants’ daily life. After crossing Grand Bel-Air and Rivière des Créoles village, the next stops are Ferney and Vieux Grand Port, which have witnessed the arrivals of the first explorers on the island in the 10th century. The numerous protected monuments and ruins from the colonial era still reflect today the central role the sites have played in the history of Mauritius.
Ferney’s lush nature
Besides historical discoveries, Ferney is the perfect place for an immersion in nature reserves home to endemic plants and animals at the foot of Lion Mountain, a popular hiking spot with panoramic views of the Île aux Fouquet and Île de la Passe. A few minutes away, Falaise Rouge offers the ideal setting for a peaceful lunch at perched on the edge of a cliff right by the lagoon.
Remembering the battle of Vieux Grand Port
Upon leaving these spots full of Mauritius’ history, your trip along the coastal road will continue from Bois des Amourettes village to Quatre Soeurs through to Bambou Virieux and Grand Sable, where unique panoramas on the turquoise lagoon will stretch before you. . You will also pass by Pointe du Diable, also known as Pointe Canon, an historical monument commemorating the battle of Vieux Grand Port in 1810, during which the French and the British fought over the control of the island.
The rural lifestyle of south-east Mauritius
Travelling through the south-east of Mauritius is the perfect opportunity to meet the villagers who live off fishing and farming, but also traditional handicrafts which are increasingly rare in Mauritius, such as the manufacture of raffia baskets or cassava biscuits (tapioca). The prevalent architecture in these different villages also attests to the history of the country. Indeed, most of the buildings such as colonial houses and shops formerly run by the Chinese immigrants have been preserved to remind us of the past centuries.
As you approach Anahita, endless sugar cane fields unravel and contribute to the country’s unique charm, sugar production remaining one of the pillars of the Mauritian economy. Grande Rivière Sud-Est’s waterfalls are also on your way and a must-see during boat trips.
After about 45 minutes of driving and an immersion in the Mauritius island’s landscapes, it is time to settle at Anahita and enjoy your stay by the island’s largest lagoon, facing the Île aux Cerfs.
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