With a landscape filled with history, mythical beaches, and luxury hotels, the East Coast is endowed with many stunning treasures that deserve a stopover. Along the coastline stretching from Poste Lafayette to Trou d’Eau Douce, there are a string of ten of the most prestigious and luxurious hotels on the island. The lagoon is deep blue, and the continuous movement of the waves makes it an ideal place for a swim. The sea is neither too flat nor too tumultuous. The rocks confer a natural cachet on the place; several hotels have made the most of these natural creeks to add more intimacy to their complex.
When we reach the traditional fisherman’s village of Trou d’Eau Douce, we are struck by its authenticity. Along the beach, a marine carpenter is putting the final touch on his order. Further, some washerwomen are wringing their clothes in a river. A few minutes away from the famous Ile aux Cerfs, classified amongst the most gorgeous beaches in the world, Trou d’Eau Douce enjoys its proximity with Ile aux Cerfs and the Touessrok hotel belonging to the same management group. L’Ile aux Cerfs is world renown for its pristine waters and its water sports. It is a very popular site for excursions, attracting many on weekends, especially in the summer.
The famous 18-hole golf course designed by Bernhard Langer on 38 hectares in itself is an enchantment for golfers. It is considered to be among the best golf courses by world professionals, and it attracts many famous personalities. L’Ile aux Cerfs is also a major stopover for those choosing to sail along the coast in catamarans or yachts. Lunch on board the boat moored in the bay is an exceptional moment.
Going down South, a detour to Grande Rivière Sud-Est is a must. If you are on a boat, it will sail alongside the waterfalls. This romantic setting is also famous for the bold divers who plunge from the heights of the waterfalls for a few rupees.
Then we enter the part of the island that is richer with history. From Vieux Grand Port to Mahebourg, the region is pervaded with a naval past that has left its vestiges all along the way. We come across the Batterie de la Pointe du Diable, the first settlement made by the Dutch. However, what remains in everybody’s mind is the famous naval battle between the French and the British, which ended with a French victory in the bay of Vieux Grand Port.
From the shelter of Montagne du Lion (480 metres on foot) with its imposing silhouette overlooking the coast, you will discover the estates deep inland: l’Etoile or Le Domaine, offering a spectacular view, sporting activities, and breathtaking discoveries.
