The name of this tea factory may sound like an amorous invitation as it literally translates to ‘Beloved Woods’. Tea was introduced by the British, planted in the Highlands where the clouds that had travelled briskly over the southern seas stopped to pour some of their contents upon the already lush flora In this bygone era, one still found the time to pick charming and poetic names for places, streets and even factories!
The Tea Trail begins in Curepipe in the highlands before descending towards the tea factory and plantation of Bois Cheri and ending at the pretty colonial house of Saint Aubin, in the south. Saint Aubin was built in 1819 from timber salvaged from ships that had been retired. It was rebuilt and renovated on the same site around 1870, and again in the 1990’s by an old carpenter and his family. Saint Aubin remains a fine example of our architectural heritage, preserved for future generations. The site includes a restaurant whose menu highlights include Mauritian specialities, most notably the Salad of Heart of Palm, smoked marlin, Creole style free-range chicken or in a natural vanilla (grown on the estate) sauce, and coconut mousse. To top off the day, visit the Maison du Rhum where a traditional rum tasting is a must.
