Mauritius history: 3 iconic French colonial properties

The history of Mauritius may be relatively young, yet it is both rich and fascinating. Going through the architectural remains of its past colonial period implies diving into an amazing blend of European influences and exotic settings. A fascinating journey through three historic buildings of French inspiration and jewels of Mauritian colonial heritage, with a strong emphasis on authenticity.

Labourdonnais Estate

Labourdonnais Estate is located just north of the island, a fifteen-minute drive from Mythic Suites & Villas. Built in 1856, the “Château” was the residence of a Mauritian family for more than 150 years before being transformed into a visitor centre. This colonial building, with its historical character and appeal, was the source of a project to highlight the cultural and historical value of the estate and to promote its splendid history. In 2006, a renowned French museum specialist and designer ensured that the “Château” would become an essential cultural and heritage site in Mauritius.

At the end of a stunning alley, the magnificent building where history, nature, gastronomy and Mauritian know-how meet is yours to discover. The house is a historical heritage and since its conversion into a museum, it has welcomed its visitors to explore the 19th century Mauritian lifestyle.

The splendid wooden floor, the high quality of preservation, the beauty of the antique furniture, the paintings, the spaciousness, and the huge circular veranda, everything in this visit makes it possible to better understand the sweetness of Mauritian art and culture

A colourful and savoury farming domain

The domain has become more and more involved in the production of tropical fruits and vegetables. The orchards date back to 1975, and cover an area of 45 hectares producing passion fruit, guava, papaya, citrus and mango. These fruits are sold in their own grocery shop “La Corbeille”, to local customers, to supermarkets and to their own processing plant “Les Vergers de Labourdonnais”. This factory produces a variety of jams, juices, sweets and fruit pastes. In addition, a nursery with a wide variety of fruit trees and ornamental plants is available for sale. A train ride through the gardens and old orchards of the estate introduces you to native species, the many spice trees, exotic fruit trees and a wide variety of century-old mango trees. At the end of the park, placid giant turtles will delight your kids.

Following the tour, enjoy a meal at La Table du Château, a contemporary and refined restaurant in the heart of the estate, which offers a gourmet and original menu highlighting the estate’s fruits and vegetables. On the splendid “La Terrasse” of the café, treat yourself to a snack or a fine selection of traditional Mauritian and international dishes (breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea). Last but not least, end your visit with a souvenir of local specialities from our gift shop.

Eureka creole mansion 

Located in the centre of Mauritius in Moka, this old house dating from 1830 is typical of the colonial period and a nostalgic insight into Mauritian lifestyle.

Few colonial houses have survived the ravages of time and cyclones. Made of wood, their maintenance is particularly costly for their owners, who came up with the great initiative of transforming them into museums and providing a priceless chance to experience an authentic Mauritian culture and lifestyle.

 Eureka House, nestled in the heart of a lush garden, has managed to preserve its past authenticity and character. Set against the backdrop of the Pouce mountain and a river, and benefiting from the extraordinary green climate of central Mauritius, the Creole House can be visited with a guide. Don’t miss the opportunity to meet its owner, Jacques de Maroussem, with his lively and friendly manner.

Perfectly renovated, Eureka gives you the opportunity to discover the traditional habitat of the colonial era, with splendid solid wood furniture and precious collector’s items. On the menu: the music room, the Chinese corner, the large room dedicated to Paul and Virginie, the bedroom, the four-poster beds, the gramophone, the chandeliers, the Kashmir carpets, as well as numerous paintings, photographs, old manuscripts and Japanese porcelain.

Gourmet pleasures after the visit

Welcome to Euréka’s guest rooms. However, even if you are just visiting, don’t miss the restaurant, famous for its excellent Creole cuisine, cooked according to traditional recipes and prepared with the fruits and vegetables of its organic garden.

The culinary surprises include smoked marlin as a starter, beef curry served with giraumon fricassee, pistachio rougaille and coconut chutney. Following the meal, take a stroll through the endemic plants along one of the many hiking trails and soak up the freshness of the various waterfalls.

The souvenir shop sells scented candles, local tea, spices, exotic jewellery, jams, books and accessories.

The Villebague mansion

 The oldest colonial house in Mauritius is much lesser-known and more discreet, but still holds the promise of an architectural and heritage discovery in Mauritius. Located in the tiny village of Grande-Rosalie in the north-east of Mauritius and thus within easy reach of Mythic Suites & Villas, the castle built in 1740 brings us back to the age of the sugar farmers. It was owned by Mahé de Labourdonnais, to whom we owe the early development of colonial Mauritius, and later by René Magon de La Villebague (1722-1778), former governor of the Isle of France and the Isle of Bourbon, who took possession of this impressive and magnificent property.

An architectural heritage dating back many years ago

A huge bronze deer welcomes visitors at the entrance of this more modestly sized residence. The Château de Villebague is based on the French colonial architectural style, with its white walls and grey shingled roof. The castle was built on the former site of Mauritius’ first sugar estate. Its gardens are home to a unique and rich fauna which attests to the Botanical diversity of Mauritius.

The discovery and visit of the castle can only be made on request through the terra group, owner of the castle.

Majestic, exuberant, generously designed or exclusive: walk in the footsteps of three beautifully restored colonial mansions with their old-fashioned charm and timelessness to experience the historic world of Mauritius’ pride and glory.