Perched at an altitude of over 650 metres, Curepipe is Mauritius’ second-largest town, nestled in the heart of the island. Its temperate, humid climate, with its distinctly European charm, attracts many expatriates. Its proximity to Port-Louis also makes it a prime location for members of the government, including the Prime Minister.
The fascinating story of Curepipe
The origin of the name Curepipe is linked to the occupation of the town by French soldiers during the Napoleonic era, who used their pipes as a favorite pastime and took the time to clean them when they became blocked.
Formerly covered in forests, Curepipe has gradually been converted to sugar cane plantations.
Geographically, its position between Port-Louis and Mahébourg has made it an essential stopover for travelers in search of rest and refreshment.
At the turn of the 19th century, the construction of a road linking Mahébourg to Port-Louis by the English precipitated the development of the town, which became home to a hotel-relais and several housing estates. Later, with the opening of a railway station in 1825, the town established itself as an essential stopover.
Towards the end of the 19th century, Curepipe really took off, attracting residents from Port-Louis fleeing the malaria epidemic. Well-to-do families found refuge here, escaping mosquitoes and fevers. Thanks to this, the town was the first to benefit from electricity, as early as 1889, and received its city status a year later. Today, it is a residential city with a population of almost 100,000.
Discover Curepipe
A trip to the heights of Curepipe offers spectacular views of superb colonial homes. The town is also full of stores selling model boats, a typical Mauritian craft. Shopping is a must in Curepipe, with its many factory outlets and duty-free stores, for a glimpse into the heart of everyday Mauritian life.
Architectural panorama
A tour of the town center reveals the elegant 19th-century Hôtel de Ville (originally established in Moka), the old Collège Royal Anglais, the Monument aux Morts from 1914-18 and the Library’s historic manuscripts.
The Hôtel de Ville de Curepipe is a magnificent testimony to Mauritian architectural heritage. Built from the materials of a former private residence, it was inaugurated in 1902 and was recently renovated in 2022-2023 to reveal its full grandeur.
The Royal English College, originally located in Port-Louis, was moved to Curepipe following the epidemics that struck Port-Louis, causing the exodus of its population. It is the oldest secondary school in the Commonwealth and is considered a prestigious boys-only institution.
In the Forest Side district, in the south-east of the city, you can admire splendid historic residences surrounded by greenery.
Domaine des Aubineaux
The famous Domaine des Aubineaux, just a short distance from Curepipe, is a must-see. This colonial mansion, now converted into a museum, is classified as a national heritage site and is on the list of Vieilles Maisons de France.
This is the original formation of Mauritius’s famous tea route.
Le Trou aux Cerfs
The ancient extinct volcano, Trou aux Cerfs, is one of the town’s major attractions. The crater, 85 metres deep and 200 metres wide, offers spectacular views over the entire central plateau. Its past is also interesting; a botanist once brought sugar cane species from New Caledonia and even cultivated vines on the slopes.
The botanical park
Less breathtaking than the Jardin de Pamplemousses, this park nevertheless constitutes the ecological heart of the city. You’ll have the pleasure of admiring a charming Victorian bandstand. This park is home to many endemic species of the Mascarene region, including the world’s last living specimen of the Hyophorbe Amaricaulis palm, whose seeds are unfortunately no longer fertile.
Miniaturized ship replicas
Curepipe is often referred to as the capital of maritime miniatures, although Goodland, to the north, is home to the largest factory. There are numerous workshops and boutiques in and around Curepipe. Take the time to explore several before choosing your favorite, as prices and quality vary. It’s sometimes hard to find THE model among all the superb creations on offer!
Curepipe location
Located in the heart of the island, in the Plaine Wilhems district, Curepipe is 20 km from Port-Louis and 30 km from Mahébourg.
Where to stay to explore Curepipe?
Curepipe’s central location makes it easy to get to and from anywhere on the island. If you’re staying close to the Blue Bay Marine Reserve, accommodation options include the Preskil Island Resort 4*sup or the Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort & Villas 5*. If your choice is the wonderful beach of Flic en Flac, the Sugar Beach Resort 5* or La Pirogue 4*Luxe would be ideal.
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