Domaine des Aubineaux – A Colonial Tea House Time Capsule
History African@africanhistory
4 days ago
Step into the elegant world of the Domaine des Aubineaux, a beautifully preserved colonial manor nestled in Forest-Side near Curepipe. Built in 1872 on the site of an earlier 1840s guesthouse, this striking wood-and-teak residence—with its French turrets and decorative veranda—became the first electrified home in Curepipe in 1889 .
Beyond its graceful facade lies a treasure trove: antique furniture, Italian frescoes, ornamental oak dining tables, a grand piano once used by the Philharmonic Society, and century-old photographs documenting the Guimbeau and Rochecouste families . The former billiard room now serves fragrant Bois Chéri tea in a sunlit salon, evoking a bygone era of colonial elegance .
Surrounding the manor is a lush botanical park filled with camphor, tropical palms, frangipani, and a majestic 500-year-old colophane tree—echoes of Mauritius’s endemic forest heritage . The stables have been reimagined as a distillery for essential oils and a charming boutique, while the gardens host peaceful strolls and hidden nooks perfect for quiet contemplation .
1521-0 This estate forms the first stop of Mauritius’s famous Route du Thé, linking it to other historic plantations like Bois Chéri and Saint Aubin .
🕒 Practical Tips
Open Daily 09:00–17:00 (Sundays & public holidays until 15:00)
Entrance Fee: MUR 330 for adults, MUR 165 for children; group rates and meal combos (tea, lunch) available
Visit Duration: 1–1.5 hours to enjoy guided tours and tasting, or up to 2 hours with lunch
What to Bring: Light layers (cooler climate), sturdy shoes, camera (no flash inside), and sun protection
Insider Tip: Ask about the “Ki Pou Kwi” cooking experience with the estate chef, where you can learn Creole recipes, taste your creations, and enjoy local rum
Why It’s Special
Domaine des Aubineaux is more than a museum—it’s a living slice of colonial life wrapped in tea culture. From its richly furnished interiors to fragrant gardens and immersive culinary touches, it captures the refined elegance of 19th-century Mauritius. Whether you're sipping tea in the winter garden, wandering among ancient trees, or hearing stories of electrified nights and piano soirées, this manor brings history to life in a vivid, sensory way.
A must-visit for architecture lovers, tea enthusiasts, cultural travelers, and anyone enchanted by the layered stories of Mauritian heritage.
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Photo Credit: TripAdvisor
