Chateau de Labourdonnais

Description

Built in 1856, the Château de Labourdonnais has been the home of the Wiehe family for over 150 years.

It was extensively refurbished in 2006 to restore its graceful colonial architecture to its original glory.

Alongside the restoration work, the Compagnie Agricole de Labourdonnais (Labourdonnais Agricultural Company) appealed to two French experts, the museologist Claude Fauque and the scenographer Alexandre Fruh, to bring the cultural significance of the Château and its surrounding areas to the fore.

Today the Château de Labourdonnais is among Mauritius’ foremost cultural attractions and a flagship of national heritage. A visit to the area is an immersion into the art of living in 19th century Mauritius. From the moment they turn into the majestic Intendance tree-lined (Ficus Retusa) avenue leading to the Château, visitors will discover a magical place that shines a spotlight on Mauritian history, nature, cuisine and savoir-faire.

It is an utter delight to discover the house and stroll through its lovely gardens and historic orchards. In addition to a large number of endemic species, the estate boasts over fifty varieties of centuries-old mango trees, as well as spice plants and a great many exotic fruit trees.

As they amble through the grounds, visitors may chance upon an old enclosure in which giant tortoises peacefully graze. At the end of each visit, clients are invited to take a seat at the estate’s tasting bar and to sample the products of the Domaine’s distillery and orchards.

These include a range of delicious rums, jams, fruit jellies and fruit juices made on the estate. This complimentary tasting is included in the price of entry to the Château, and each of the items is also available for purchase in the Domaine’s shop.
The Domaine de Labourdonnais extends well beyond the Château itself. Visitors can refresh themselves and stock up on local delicacies and souvenirs at the shop and restaurant only a few steps away.