2023-08-30
Ile aux Cerfs in Mauritius
Located within the Trou-d'eau-Douce lagoon off the East coast of Mauritius, Île aux Cerfs is one of the jewels of the Indian Ocean. It is prized by both foreigners and locals who take advantage of its dream beaches and extraordinary landscapes to recharge on weekends. The island is largely covered with lush vegetation and surrounded by sumptuous beaches. A place of unmatched beauty, its history, access, and activities fascinate visitors. Let's dive into the discovery of this paradisiacal gem.
The history of Île aux Cerfs
The Île aux Cerfs owes its name to the many Javan deer that populated the center of the island. There were up to 75,000 introduced to the island in the 17th century. These animals were used as hunting game by the settlers who hunted them for food, preparing the famous “kari cerf”. Over time, the deer disappeared, but the name remained, bearing witness to the island's rich past. Over the years, Île aux Cerfs has become a popular destination for locals and tourists, combining history and leisure in an idyllic setting.
The Île aux Cerfs is now uninhabited and the waters are as crystal clear as anywhere else. It has become and is by far the most popular and well-known destination in Mauritius.
How to get to Île aux Cerfs from Mauritius?
There are various ways to access Île aux Cerfs and discover this iconic site of Mauritius.
From Mauritius, the most popular starting point is Trou d’Eau Douce, a small fishing village located on the east coast. From there, many sea shuttles make the trip to the island, offering visitors a short but picturesque crossing. These shuttles between Trou d'Eau Douce and Île aux Cerfs leave every 20 minutes, starting from 9 am.
For a more luxurious experience, catamaran excursions are also available, allowing you to sail peacefully while enjoying a breathtaking landscape. You can also opt for a speedboat excursion or even a pirate boat. While most sea outings depart from Trou d'Eau Douce, you can start your journey from Blue Bay. The boat will take you to the Blue Bay Marine Park and Île aux Aigrettes located in the southeast of Mauritius, and then drop you off on Île aux Cerfs for a welcome cocktail and a beach barbecue.
Whichever option you choose, the panoramic view of Mauritius fading away is an unforgettable sight, and you will discover magnificent panoramas that will pass before your eyes throughout the day such as the Grande Rivière Sud Est Waterfall or the Mangénie islet...
What to do and see on Île aux Cerfs in Mauritius?
Île aux Cerfs is not only famous for its pristine beaches, it offers a range of activities for all tastes. Île aux Cerfs invites you to relax on its beautiful white sand beaches, in the shade of the palm trees, with eyes on the turquoise waters of the ocean, whose transparency invites diving, but also to participate in the many water activities planned for everyone, all year round: kayaking, canoeing, sailing, parasailing... You can indulge in snorkeling and explore the magnificent coral reefs that surround the island. Finally, if you're a golf enthusiast, don't hesitate to test your green on one of the most famous golf courses in the world: the Touessrok Golf Course, combining technique and exceptional panoramas.
Beyond its splendid beaches, you will discover, during walks to the heart of the island, a lush tropical vegetation, the mangrove, or even waterfalls accessible by boat.
If you spend the day or evening there, head to the restaurants of Île aux Cerfs for lunch, dinner, or just a drink. The island has some very popular addresses offering seafood specialties or authentic Mauritian cuisine, all while gazing at the azure sea with feet in the sand!
Do you want to explore Ile aux Cerfs, and are you looking for a seasonal rental in Mauritius? Do you want to invest in real estate in Mauritius in order to have a foothold in this heavenly corner? Do not hesitate to contact one of our BARNES real estate agencies in Mauritius so that our advisers can present our exclusive offers to you!
