Rising from the ocean at Mauritius’ southwestern tip, Le Morne is nothing short of dazzling. A beautiful peninsula surrounded by sparkling lagoon waters, the mountain is often glimpsed from the air when flying into Mauritius, and is a fantastic destination for keen beachgoers and outdoorsy travellers. Accommodation options are plentiful all across Mauritius, and many of the best places to stay in Le Morne are known for their gorgeous white sands, tranquil atmosphere and glorious sunsets.
Named for a Dutch East India Company ship which ran aground in 1783, Le Morne itself is a craggy basaltic mountain, studded with caves and steep overhangs. A UNESCO Heritage Site since 2008, the mountain has enormous cultural significance as a refuge for Maroons and those who escaped enslavement when Mauritius was under French rule. Take a guided tour of the mountain for a sense of this turbulent past, or pause to ponder the memorial at its base. Challenging treks to the summit come highly recommended — the views are spectacular, and the forested slopes are home to abundant birdlife.
The lagoon around Le Morne is Mauritius’ top kite surfing spot. Hone your skills with expert instructors, or try your hand at sailing and windsurfing. The casuarina tree-fringed sands of Le Morne Beach are brilliant for refreshing dips, whilst Tamarin and La Gaulette, slightly to the north, boast the best surf breaks. Delve into the island’s interior at Ebony Forest or in the mountains of Chamarel, where you can walk, horse ride and cycle in striking surroundings. Our Gurus’ pick of the best places to stay in Le Morne offer a fascinating insight into one of the wildest, most magical corners of this very special island.