Most people think of Mauritius and think only of the miles of palm-lined beaches and luxurious hotels.
The Black River Gorges National Park allows you to explore a more rugged and truly spectacular aspect of the island.
My partner and I travelled to Mauritius last October, staying in a self-catering apartment in Flic-en-Flac. Unlike most visitors to Mauritius, sitting on the beach all day was never part of our plan, and we wanted to make the most of our fortnight there by exploring the island.
We found the Black River Gorges mentioned in guidebook we had borrowed, and decided to visit the park for a walk, and a picnic.
We set off, armed with our sandwiches and comfy trainers (having been warned that the terrain is not always easy) and plenty of water. A sign off the main road directs you to the park, and meanders for a couple of miles through fields of sugar cane. Even before reaching the park gate, we had spotted numerous species of birds, as well as an armadillo.
On arrival, we parked up in the well-shaded car park and went into the Information Centre. Although the range of information on display wasn't fantastic, the member of staff manning the place was very helpful: he gave us a map, illustrated a few of the walk routes that you can do there and answered our many questions.
Since it was a little late in the day to embark on some of the longer (more spectacular) routes, we opted for a short walk up to a kiosk and back.
For much of the route, you walk on the large black rocks which give the river its name, crossing back and forth across the river - sometimes across bridges, and sometimes from rock to rock that stick out of shallower water. We found the route fascinating to follow, and felt like true adventurers as we clambered across the rocks and splashed through the river! The route is almost entirely under cover, making it ideal to follow even in the heat of the day. Along the way, we were amazed by the lusciousness of the forest, and also the tiny frogs that hopped among the stones as we walked.
After reaching the kiosk, and stopping to admire the spectaular river, flowing through the gorge, we returned to the car park & picnic area to have our lunch. The only disadvantage of the park is the mosquitoes - do make sure you are well covered with Jungle Formula (or similar) before you go or you will be eaten alive!
We returned to the park on another day, and walked much further up the gorge, which gave us some truly stunning views across the park, and out along the coastline, from La Morne almost to Filc-en-Flac.
I have since discovered that it is possible to access the park fromseveral other sides, and the walking routes include a walk through some of Mauritius' rainforest, complete with rare birds, and also around a holy lake.
My partner and I hope that we'll be oging back to Mauritius before too long so that we can continue to explore this more ruggedly beautiful aspect of the island.