Mahebourg

Mahébourg is situated on the southeast coast of Mauritius. It is the capital city of the district of Grand Port, with a recorded population of 15, 735 until year 2000. The place is named after a popular governor Bertrand-François Mahé de La Bourdonnais, who belonged to the French colonial period.

The city was initially built during the short Netherlands colonization period. Mahebourg, was within a close proximity to the landing port, had enough supply of water from several streams and rivers and was bestowed with a magnificent view of the wide bay. The city underwent massive development during the period of French rule.  

The old section of the city of Mahebourg with neatly organized city structure and planned broad streets, still have the touch and flavor of its past European occupiers; namely the French and the Dutch. After Port Louis was chosen to be the main harbor by the French, Mahebourg took a back seat and gradually became a laid back coastal city. The city boasts a rich historical past which has been preserved in the famous Historical Naval Museum. The museum also holds testimony to the epic battles of the navy, which took place between the Royal and the French Navy. The initial Dutch Settlement in Mauritius is recounted in the The Dutch Historical Museum, situated in Grand Port.

Today, the city has developed into a busy local trade center. The new waterfront in Mahebourg is ideal for strolls along side the sea. The beautiful city in Mauritius is gradually developing its tourism prospects by promoting clubs, casinos and other contemporary and historical Mahebourg attractions to draw more tourists to the city.

Mahebourg accommodation options are also constantly growing. There are several hotels, inns and lodges, which already exist; apart from these many are also coming up. These hotels have a very welcoming ambience and cater to various kinds of tourists who come across the globe.

Mahebourg Tourist attractions:

The city of Mahebourg is renowned for its lagoon, which is recorded the largest in the country and also boasts a considerably big fishing industry. The city is a typical example of a Mauritian village. Although, unlike most other places in Mauritius, Mahebourg does not have any beaches but it does boast a breath taking waterfront, best for long lazy walks.

Some of the major attractions of Mahebourg and the southeastern coast of the island include:

The National History Museum:

The fist striking feature is the Creole museum building. The exhibits that the museum houses describe the bygone era of the country and highlight the historical aspect that contributed to the city’s development. The museum has different sections for the British, French and the Dutch periods.

Other Mahebourg attraction sites include:

1. British Coastal Fort, which is situated on the city’s outskirts
2. The  Maritime Monument, which depicts the naval war between French and English
3. Notre Dame des Anges, a very popular grand church in the city

 

If you have a knack for art, then don’t miss the Monday market. The market is popular for hosting local crafts and art and also different kinds of delicacies and spices.

Though a very small place and has long been underestimated as a tourist destination, has a lot to offer and it gradually developing its tourism prospects. The city is experiencing an increasing number of tourists. So, if you are planning to visit Mauritius in future then make sure you include Mahebourg in your tour plan and you sure won’t be disappointed.

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