Mauritius Tea Route: Bois Cheri, St Aubin & Gris Gris Day Trip

Summary

Tea tastings, colonial gardens and wild southern coastlines

You’ll sip Mauritian teas at Bois Chéri with panoramic views, step through creaking halls at colonial estates like St Aubin House, and watch wild waves crash at Gris Gris Cape. With local stories and plenty of time to wander gardens or taste rum, this day trip lets you slow down and really feel southern Mauritius.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely stepped out of the van in Curepipe when the smell hit me — not just tea leaves, but something older, like wood polish and a hint of vanilla drifting from Domaine des Aubineaux. Our guide, Ashvin, waved us over with a grin and started telling stories about the old house (built 1872 — I still can’t believe some of those floorboards have survived cyclones). There were photos everywhere: black-and-white faces staring back from another century. I tried to imagine them drinking their morning tea on this same porch. My favorite part was wandering through the garden after — everything felt damp and green, even the air.

The drive to Bois Chéri was bumpy in that way where you keep thinking you’ll spill your water bottle but never quite do. The factory itself smelled sharp and sweet at once — I didn’t expect to like it so much. Ashvin showed us how they dry and blend the leaves; he even let me try crumbling a handful (it’s rougher than you’d think). We tasted three kinds of tea looking out over these rolling hills — honestly, I’m still thinking about that ginger one. Everyone got quiet for a minute just watching clouds move across the fields.

Lunch was at St Aubin House — big white shutters, creaky stairs, someone’s grandma’s recipe for chicken curry (I asked, she winked). The sugar estate tour was half history lesson, half “try this rum” (strong stuff; made my nose tingle). And then we hit Gris Gris Cape. It’s loud there — waves smashing right up against black cliffs, no reef to soften things. You can feel salt on your lips if you stand close enough. There were benches tucked into little gardens above the sea; I sat for a while just listening to the wind. Didn’t want to leave yet.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Mauritius Tea and Colonial Heritage

• Visit Domaine des Aubineaux museum
• Tour colonial mansion and photo exhibition
• Stroll Le Parc Floral des Aubineaux garden
• Visit La Maison des Essences
• Enjoy tea tasting at Les Aubineaux Restaurant
• Tour Bois Chéri tea factory and museum
• Taste flavored and herbal teas with view
• Visit St. Aubin House and Sugar Estate
• Admire sea cliffs at Gris Gris Cape
• Relax in garden and stroll small beach
• Explore La Vanille Nature Park reserve

Top questions

How long does the Mauritius Tea Route day trip last?

The full-day tour typically lasts around 8 hours including all stops and travel time.

Is lunch included on the Mauritius Tea Route tour?

Yes, lunch is included during your visit to St Aubin House & Sugar Estate.

Are pickups included in this day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup is included as part of your booking.

Can children join the Mauritius Tea Route day trip?

Yes, children are welcome; infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller.

Do you get to taste tea at Bois Cheri plantation?

Yes, tea tasting is part of your guided visit at Bois Chéri plantation.

Is there free WiFi during the tour?

Yes, free WiFi is available during your day trip.

What should I wear for visiting Gris Gris Cape?

Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket; it can be windy by the cliffs.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour route.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle with bottled water provided along the way. Entry fees for all sites are covered; enjoy guided tours at each stop plus lunch at St Aubin House before returning in comfort that evening.