Mauritius South

The South of Mauritius, is where the island's history started. The "Vieux Grand Port" bay being the first port of Mauritius, the region received the first Dutch explorers" camps in 1638. When in 1735, the well-known French Governor Francois Mahé de Labourdonnais decided to develop the actual port (Port-Louis) right on the opposite side of the island, as main harbour and administration centre, the South / Southeast did not lose any of its importance. The village of Mahebourg nearby, named after him is a great landmark of this part of the history of Mauritius. It was much later, under the British Empire that this region was gradually left behind. As at today, the South is the least developed and most authentic region of Mauritius with very few hotel resorts although the region of Bel Ombre recently saw the settling of 3 hotel resorts.

Climate

he South and Southeast coasts face the Southeast trade winds, which prevails almost all year round. The region often gets too windy especially in winter where high-pressure cells pass by. On the other hand, this part of the island remains relatively fresh in summer. The beach of Pointe d'Esny is said to be the best spot for lazy summer days. Beware of sunburns as the fresh breeze may lead you to think that you are not getting burnt until it's too late. A T-Shirt or bathing suits is all you need in summer (November to March.) A sweatshirt is welcome in the evenings during the months of September, October, April and May. During winter, (June to August) it can get cool as early as 5 p.m. and warm clothes are necessary after sunset.