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Much of Mauritius’ allure lies in its pristine, powdery beaches; cerulean waters and its promise of an ideal tropical retreat where tranquillity reigns and peace is non-negotiable. While the adventure-lovers as well as fans of hustle and bustle might still find a way to amuse themselves in the touristy corners of the island, for a traveller seeking the Mauritius as conjured by tourist brochures lies 560km to Mauritius’s northeast, the unspoiled Rodrigues, revealing itself only to a curious visitor and rewarding her with time travel. Referred to as the “Mauritius of fifty years ago”, Rodrigues is where the good-old Creole life can be experienced and where slowing down seems as natural as breathing.
Gorge Eyes on Spectacular Views
Being rather hilly, picturesque vistas of Rodrigues and surrounding areas can be enjoyed from many points. Make at stop at Eau Claire from where the ocean can be seen in all its blue glory. Also, savour the view of the Grande Passe from here and see, in the distance, the boats making their way to Rodrigues. At Citron Donis viewpoint, you enjoy the view of the small islets surrounding Rodrigues till the sun sets, which itself is an astounding sight.
Live on the Beaches
No surprises here! Rodrigues is home to some picture-perfect beaches infringed by casuarina trees and adorned with exotic flowers. You can spend hours lazing under the sun without being disturbed by noise and crowds. Anse Ali, Saint Francois and Trou d’Argent are some of the popular beaches here. Reaching these beaches after crossing dense forests and picturesque walking trails is no less fun.
Explore the Local Flora and Fauna at Jardin des 5 Sens
At the Garden of Five Senses that came to existence in 2012, one can have a sensory experience unlike anywhere else on the island. You will see colours unknown to your palette; hear sounds of indigenous birds and smell exotic flowers. A true encounter with the Mother Nature, on your visit to the Garden of Five Senses, you will see rare endemic plants such as Mandrinette, Rodrigues lemon, Cinnamon canphora, carrot wood and brown palm.
Meet Turtles at Francois Leguat Reserve
Spread over 19-acres, the Francois Leguat Reserve is one of the most visited attractions in Rodrigues. Named after the French explorer and naturalist who opened the reserve in 2007 in a bid to protect the habitant species of turtles of Rodrigues, the Francois Leguat Reserve started with 555 turtles. The reserve is now home to over 3400 turtles, belonging to three different turtle species. The oldest male turtle here is over 100 whereas the oldest female turtle has reached 80. The visitors can touch and feed the resident turtles under the watchful eyes of the employees of the reserve.
Try Ziplining and Pendulum Swinging Jump from a Suspension Bridge
Put on your hiking shoes and sign up for a day of an adrenaline rush in Rodrigues with Tyrodrig ziplining. Offering breathtaking views of the ocean, the surrounding hills as well as the dense forest, visitors have four zipline ropes – 100-400 metre long- to choose from. Alternatively, travellers can walk the length of the suspension bridge built over a canyon in Cascade Pistache. Those looking for an added thrill can do a pendulum jump from the middle of the bridge, an exhilarating experience worth being added to your book of precious memories.