Excursion Colonial heritage of mahebourg tour at Port Louis

Meet the past of Mauritius by exploring the Old Grand Port region where the first settlers arrived in the country.

Mahebourg, Biscuiterie Rault, Tasting

Depart the pier for an approximately one-hour transfer to Biscuiterie Rault, located in Mahebourg. Visit the oldest biscuit factory in the island and the only one in the region to manufacture biscuits from cassava. This plant was introduced by the French Governor Mahé de Labourdonnais in 1735 to feed cattle. In 1868, Hilarion Rault, whose father had come from Britton in 1807 to settle on the French colony Isle de France, developed a recipe for cassava biscuits. The “Biscuits Manioc” were launched on the local market in 1870 and later this product won the silver medal in the London Franco British Exhibition in 1908. The biscuits gained in popularity during the first world war where cassava became an important staple food for the local population. Today, this small factory is run by the descendants of H. Rault and they still manufacture the biscuits according to the same recipe and artisanal method developed by him. Learn about the age-old biscuit making process before getting the opportunity to sample the seven different flavours – vanilla, cinnamon, milk, star anise, butter, coconut, chocolate with a cup of tea.

Mahebourg, Panoramic Drive Through, Notre Dame des Anges Church

Next, re-board your coach for a panoramic drive through Mahebourg to discover jewels such as the Notre Dame des Anges church built in 1849 and traditional shops. Mahebourg used to be the naval port and capital of the island under the French in the 18^th century. It was named after Bertrand-Francois Mahe de la Bourdonnais, one of the most successful governors of the French colonial period. The wide streets in the old section still bear testimony to its Dutch and French colonial past. After the main port was moved to Port Louis, Mahébourg’s bay and streets were left alone for local fishermen, busy markets and a slow-paced life.

Historical Naval Museum

Your next stop is the Historical Naval Museum, which recounts the epic naval battles of the past between the French Navy and the Royal Navy. It is housed in Chateau Gheude, a National Heritage building dating back to 1772. The interesting aspect of the Naval Museum lies not solely in its collection of exhibits, but also in its history as a building. The Chateau de Roubillard or Gheude Castle is beautifully nestled on the bank of La Chaux River. It preserves a collection of relics salvaged from the wrecks, reminiscent of the fierce naval battles that took place in the region which saw the very first naval victory of the French over the British during the Napoleon period in 1810. A real French achievement, this victory is duly engraved on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.

Old Grand Port Heritage Site, Local Historian

Your exploration continues with a visit of the Old Grand Port Heritage Site, a National Heritage site, which contains the ruins of the first settlements of the Dutch and French colonizers. Here, meet with a local historian and learn about the rich history of Grand Port including the epic sea battles witnessed by this region during the colonization era.

Lunch at Falaise Rouge Restaurant or similar

Upon conclusion of your visit, proceed to Falaise Rouge Restaurant or similar. Here, facing the Grand Port Bay, among wood, old stones and the sea, enjoy a succulent meal of local specialties while enjoying the magnificent panorama of the bay of Grand Port and the islands of the South-East coast.

Return to the pier thereafter.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Biscuiterie Rault, Notre Dame des Anges Church, Naval Museum of Mahebourg, Old Grand Port Heritage Site, Lunch La Falaise Rouge Seafront Restaurant or similar, Magnificent Panorama

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking of approximately 0.7 km or 0.4 miles with about 15 steps to negotiate to access at the Naval Museum. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility but not for those who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing suitable for warm and humid conditions. Flat, closed-toe walking shoes are recommended for this tour. Please bring sun protection (high-SPF sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), bottled water to stay hydrated, and local currency or credit cards for any purchases. A light rain jacket or compact umbrella may be useful for occasional tropical showers.