I drove the Route du Thé last winter and it surprised me in ways I didn't...

I drove the Route du Thé last winter and it surprised me in ways I didn't expect. Most guides focus on the big Bois Chéri factory tour, but I’d urge anyone to skip the tasting room there and instead stop at the smaller, family-run tea stalls along the roadside. The one near the junction at Le Réduit (just past the botanical garden) pours a fresh, earthy tea that’s nothing like the commercial stuff they sell at the gift shops. The road itself is narrow and winding, so take your time - I nearly missed a turn because I was distracted by the wild monkeys playing in the trees near a misty patch of forest.

What really stuck with me was the contrast: you’re driving through lush green hills that feel untouched, then suddenly you round a bend and see a crumbling colonial plantation house half-swallowed by vines. It’s a reminder that this route was once a vital trade artery for the British and French planters. Pack a picnic and pull off at the little lay-by near the Saint-Aubin estate - you can see the old sugar mill ruins while you eat. Also, bring mosquito repellent; the humidity in the afternoon gets thick and those little buggers are relentless.

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Pooler Felipe @felipepooler7209

okay wow this makes me want to go back to Mauritius so bad. We did the Bois Chéri tour last year and honestly? the tasting room was kinda meh, felt very tourist-trap-y. really wish I'd known about those roadside stalls. also wild monkeys?? we only saw some stray dogs so I'm lowkey jealous lol. that bit about the crumbling plantation house gave me chills though — that kind of history just hits different when you're actually there. saving this post for next time I go.
13 days ago

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