Aparté No 2 | Page 87

An exceptional setting
The Château ’ s lush gardens provide a delightful setting for an enchanting stroll . The driveway that leads to the magnificent building is lined with majestic Chinese Banyan trees , while the orchards are home to a cornucopia of century-old trees , fruit trees , and aromatic plants . In summer , the old mango trees overflow with enough juicy fruit to tempt any visitor ’ s taste buds !
Families might choose to visit the small farm to discover the farmyard . Giant tortoises basking in the sun await your admiration . Just next door , a subterranean museum , opened in 2022 , traces the history of the sugar industry and its activity on the Labourdonnais Estate : the history of the first sugar mills , the development of the mills through the years , the 19 th century sugar boom , all accompanied by a wealth of stories . Make sure you allow enough time to explore the Quartier des Serres , with unusual shops , hairdresser ’ s salon , a café and a plant nursery sitting side by side in its lush , leafy environment .
Aparté
Special events
History and gastronomy combine
Once home to a Mauritian family , this 19 th -century jewel opened its doors to welcome the public in 2010 , following extensive restoration work by Mauritian and European experts . The Victorian architecture , hand-painted wallpaper from the Atelier Jean Zuber in Alsace , Baccarat chandeliers , and authentic period furniture all display the exceptional craftsmanship that makes Château de Labourdonnais an unmissable destination in Mauritius .
Visits to the Château are brought to a delightful conclusion with a tasting of local products made on the estate : fruit jellies , jams , and juices . Gourmets should head for La Table du Château , to savour delicious dishes prepared by Italian chef Fabio de Poli !
The magnificent Château and its gracious lawns are the perfect setting for special events . The Château can be booked for a wedding , reception , or corporate event , but the estate also hosts regular cultural events that are open to the public : music and culinary festivals , concerts , recitals ... there ’ s something to suit every taste !
The Château de Labourdonnais is much more than simply an historic place . It ’ s a living treasure that brings past and present together to create an unforgettable adventure that combines culture , nature , and festive events . A visit promises lasting memories as you discover the richness of Mauritius in all its many aspects .
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