Rodrigues : Where the sun shines brighter

Features
Published on 2021-01-14 at 12:28 by Estelle Bastien
Do you know that holiday feeling? When there seems to be more hours in a day, when you dare to wear the super colourful mini dress or those bright shorts, when you do not take life with a pinch of salt and embrace whatever comes your way… Well, in Rodrigues, this dolce vita is a life philosophy. Add to the mix white sandy beaches and turquoise waters and an incredibly kind population. Expat.com takes you on vacation to Rodrigues!

Beaches

There are fewer beaches to see in Rodrigues than in Mauritius, because the island is smaller and it also has a few rocky coastal areas. But Rodriguan beaches are absolutely worth the hour and a half flight.

Accessible by car, the beaches of Pointe Coton, St François, Fumier and Mourouk are perhaps the most beautiful beaches on the island. The seemingly infinite white sandy beaches and the turquoise waters are out of this world. These beaches are easily accessible by car or bus.

Although maybe less accessible, the coves Trou d'Argent, Anse Ally, Grande Anse and Anse Bouteille on the Eastern coast of the island are truly what dreams are made of. What's more, it is likely that you will have the little coves all to yourselves because they are only accessible by foot from St François or Graviers.

The bucket list spots

If you are visiting the island for the very first time, there are obviously a few spots you cannot miss. There is the famous Caverne Patate, a cave in which you can take a guided tour admiring the stalactites and stalagmites. Then, there is the St Gabriel's Church, which happens to be the largest Catholic church in the Indian Ocean. To add to your list of Rodrigues classics: the François Leguat reserve. The other must-see in Rodrigues is the Port-Mathurin bazar. Local products, such as honey, pickles, candied peppers and handicrafts are all on display for visitors to enjoy.

Go on an adventure

If you're somewhat of a thrill-seeker, then Rodrigues has what it takes for you. Zipline crossing, suspension bridge or bungee jumping… These activities will not only give you an adrenaline kick, but will also provide you with the best views on the island. 

The longest zipline is 420 m in Montagne Malgache. The activity is accessible to adults and children alike. It is in Cascade Pistache, that you can experience the bungee-jump. Muster the courage and all you need to do is jump and ... howl.

Coconut Island

It is a very famous outing in Rodrigues. The crossing is done by boat and you are also able to fish during the boat trip. The islands is shelter to a plethora of exotic, migratory and endemic birds and guided tours of the island and its fauna are offered.

Article translated from Rodrigues, petit coin de paradis !