Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
the Ganges in India) while various international dignitaries have planted trees in the sur-
rounding gardens, including Nelson Mandela, Indira Gandhi and a host of British royals.
L'Aventure du Sucre
OFFLINE MAP
( 243 0660;
www.aventuredusucre.com
;
adult/child Rs 350/175; 9am-5pm)
On the other side of the
motorway's roundabout from the botanical gardens, the former Beau Plan sugar factory
now houses one of the best museums in Mauritius. It not only tells the story of sugar in
great detail, but also covers the history of Mauritius, slavery, the rum trade and much,
much more. Allow a couple of hours to do it justice.
The original factory was founded in 1797 and only ceased working in 1999. Most of the
machinery is still in place and former workers are on hand to answer questions about the
factory and the complicated process of turning sugar cane into crystals. There are also
videos and interactive displays as well as quizzes for children. At the end of the visit you
can taste some of the 15 different varieties of unrefined sugar, two of which were invented
in Mauritius.
MUSEUM
Eating
Chez Tante Athalie
OFFLINE MAP
MAURITIAN
€€
( 243 9266; Centre de Flacq Rd, Mont Gout; menu Rs 450; noon-2.30pm Mon-Sat)
While you're in the
neighbourhood of the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens, it's worth
grabbing a delicious Creole lunch at Chez Tante Athalie, the best-known
table d'hôte
in
the area. The open-sided restaurant offers simple but fresh tastes overlooking a garden
filled with vintage cars, and there's an oasis-like feel to the place. From the entrance to the
botanical gardens follow the signs around 500m to the T-junction, turn left and then watch
for a signposted driveway 2km further on on your left.
Le Fangourin
OFFLINE MAP
( 243 0660; mains Rs 310-695; 11.30am-4pm)
If all the sugar in L'Aventure du Sucre museum
has set your taste buds working, you could sup a glass of sugar cane juice at Le
MAURITIAN
€€
