Route du Thé – A Taste of Colonial Elegance and Nature
History African@africanhistory
4 days ago
Embark on La Route du Thé, Mauritius’s scenic tea corridor winding from the misty uplands at Curepipe to the verdant hills by Souillac. This captivating journey links three heritage estates—Domaine des Aubineaux, Bois Chéri, and Saint Aubin—each offering a unique blend of colonial architecture, botanical beauty, and gastronomic delight .
🏛 Domaine des Aubineaux
Begin your voyage in a sunlit colonial manor, built in 1872 and once the first electrified home in Curepipe. Inside, teak walls display original 19th-century furniture, family portraits, and a winter garden serving aromatic Bois Chéri tea. Stroll its botanical park, savor essential oils in the old stables, and feel the intimacy of Creole elegance .
🌱 Bois Chéri Tea Factory
Next, ascend to Mauritius’s oldest tea estate, founded in 1892 atop cool highlands. Wander through the factory—guided tours explain processing from withering to blending—then visit the museum section. At the hilltop Chalet, indulge in a tasting of black, green, vanilla, coconut or herbal teas, all while gazing at the lake and vast plantation .
🏠 Saint Aubin Estate
Your final stop awaits near Souillac: a graceful 1819 colonial residence built from old ship timber. Explore its vanilla house, rum distillery, spice gardens, and mini-farm before sitting down to a Creole-style meal. Sip the estate’s signature rum and wander through its lush botanical surroundings .
Tips for Tea-Road Travelers
When to go: Weekdays are ideal for quiet touring; morning light is perfect for photos.
Getting around: Best enjoyed by private driver or organized tour; logical sequence is Aubineaux → Bois Chéri → Saint Aubin .
Plan your day: Allocate 6–8 hours, including travel, tours, tastings, and lunch.
Essentials: Comfortable footwear, sun protection, water, camera.
Must-try: Flavored teas—Mauritian vanilla tea is a highlight—and rich Creole dishes at estates.
Why It’s Irresistible
This isn’t just a route—it’s a sensory journey through Mauritius’s colonial past and vibrant present. From botanical elegance to aromatic tea, cultural history to local cuisine, La Route du Thé is the perfect harmony of heritage, nature, and flavor.
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Photo Credit: TripAdvisor
3 days ago
