Dec 20, 2024
The 15 best activities to do around Le Chamarel Restaurant
Chamarel, a small village still rustic and anchored in time, is a destination not to be missed during your holidays in Mauritius. Indeed, the village that owes its name to Charles de Chazal de Chamarel, is today a haven of tranquility in the heart of lush nature. If you visit Chamarel region, there are a variety of activities not to be missed:
Chamarel Geopark
An essential on your list, the geopark is a must-visit in Chamarel. Discovered by Charles de Chazal de Chamarel, it is today a preserved place, sanctuary of a rich fauna and flora. Among the top 10 activities to do in Mauritius, from colourful dunes to the Chamarel waterfall or the tortoise park, the site is full of historical and cultural discoveries.
Chamarel 7 Coloured Earth
Chamarel 7 Coloured Earth is home of a rare geological phenomenon: dunes of several colours that do not mix. This unique site is today preserved for its natural beauty and geological importance. These dunes, with their vibrant hues, are an iconic symbol of Mauritius and a must-see when exploring the geopark.
Visit the giant tortoises of Aldabra
Located in the Geopark, Aldabra’s Giant Tortoise is the second largest species of turtles in the world. They come from the Seychelles and can live up to 120 years. They live peacefully while enjoying the mild climate of Chamarel. You will find them strolling nonchalantly in their enclosures, taking full advantage of the tropical sun.
The Chamarel waterfall
The Chamarel waterfall is the highest on the island, it rises to a height of about 100 metres. Through two unique views of the majestic river, let yourself be lulled by the soft sound of water falling. Fed by two rivers upstream, it can reach a volume of up to 41,000 square meters in high season!
C Beach Club
Located in Bel Ombre, this beach club is an invitation to relax by the sea. Whether you are a fan of the pool or the sea, the C Beach Club combines serene lifestyle and culinary tasting. The C Beach Club offers an experience adapted to each visitor. Whether you are looking for lively moments with friends, romantic getaways as a couple or fun family adventures, our seaside retreat offers the perfect setting for everyone.
World of Seashells – The Shell Museum
This museum hosts the largest collection of shells in the Indian Ocean, with 8,000 pieces from the collection of Mr Le Court de Billot. During your visit, you will discover all the secrets of shells: their morphology, their living mechanism, their defense system, their fascinating shapes and patterns and their dreamy colors. You will also learn how people have used shells around the world over the centuries.
Bel Ombre Nature Reserve
It is a nature reserve that not only shelters rich fauna and endemic flora, but also offers activities such as quad or buggy for thrill-seekers. The 4X4 safari and trekking activities will allow you to discover this sanctuary of 1,300 hectares, with explanations from expert guides.
Le Morne Bradant – UNESCO World Heritage
At 550 meters above sea level, this UNESCO World Heritage site is the guardian of Mauritius' colonial history. Once a refuge for runaway slaves, it is now a popular place for walks and other hiking activities.
The Morne beach
At the foot of the iconic Morne Bradant, this corner of paradise, with its large sandy beach, swimming area and a view of the UNESCO World Heritage site. This beach is famous for its large stretch of sand, as well as for its spaces dedicated to water sports such as kite-surfing.
Explore the flora and fauna
Chamarel, perched 280 meters above sea level, is the habitat of many species. Among them, endemic breed such as the pink pigeon, named after its pink color, or the green cateaux, which is now the last native parakeet of Mauritius. On the flora side, the region is a prime habitat for ebony trees, more precisely, the black ebony, and the Café de Chamarel, the only coffee grown on the island.
The Black River Gorges National Park
The Black River Gorges are an unmissable for all hiking and nature lovers. It is indeed the largest nature reserve of the island; it hosts multiple hiking trails suitable for all levels. From rivers to waterfalls, passing by the magnificent views, it is a must-see with its 6,700 hectares of fauna and flora.
Walking trails and scenic views
Enjoy a breathtaking view of the south-west coast of the island. The hiking trails that wind around the village invite you to explore landscapes where nature is revealed in all its splendor. At every turn, local flora and fauna blend harmoniously into this enchanting setting, offering an immersive experience in the middle of nature.
Coffee tasting at Le Chamarel Restaurant
Le Café de Chamarel is the only coffee grown in Mauritius. The plantation, which is located in Chamarel, allows the production of a rich coffee that can be enjoyed at Le Chamarel Restaurant. Around revisited local pastries, this café reveals its aromas under a French press.
Discover the rich flavours of Mauritian coffee
This full-bodied arabica coffee comes from the nearby Chamarel Geopark. Amateurs can enjoy this intense coffee, with cocoa aromas and acidulous notes, in grains to be grind, grinded for filter coffee makers or espresso. Awaken your senses with the intense aromas of a strong and slightly acidic Robusta, combined with the sweetness of Café de Chamarel.
Sip a cocktail with panoramic views
For a moment of indulgence, what could be better than savouring a tropical-flavored cocktail while enjoying a panoramic view of the southwest coast? From cane syrup to coffee, the flavors are sublimated by our chefs.
In conclusion, the Chamarel region, with its unique natural setting, offers a multitude of activities for all tastes, ranging from geological treasures of the geopark to unique culinary experiences at Le Chamarel Restaurant. Whether you are passionate about nature, history or gastronomy, each discovery in this picturesque village promises an unforgettable journey to the heart of Mauritius.