Colonial houses in Mauritius

The architectural landscape singular and colonial houses of lMauritius are a reflection of the island's historical contingencies as a commercial counter linking Europe and East. The architectural models introduced by Dutch, British and French settlers from the 17th century onwards will be mixed with the architectural style of India and East Africa. This will lead to the obvious vision of an original architectural style. Mauritian houses are as different as each other, as they highlight a diversity of designs, singular decorative elements, and various materials.

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Mauritius is a paradise country and extraordinary for anyone who wants to do tourism there, home and live there, make an investment or enjoy his retirement days. It is a geographical place composed of various peoples, colours, cultures and strong scents. In addition, Mauritius has a warm and tropical maritime climate, but very comfortable all year round. In addition, the time zone (GMT +4) fits perfectly with many outside countries.

Among Mauritius' many expat attractions, Mauritius has a spectacular landscape, coupled with a superb and dreamy setting of a tropical island in the Indian Ocean.

Colonial houses: cultural and tourist places

The colonial houses Mauritius are private museums par excellence. In general, these were former planters' dwellings. They are located geographically on the heights of the island, in the center of beautiful gardens. They are equipped with variangues; gallery that runs throughout the facade and under which the inhabitants of the house were refreshed.

In order to have a specific idea of this housing style, it is recommended to make a visit to the Eureka estate, for example. Accommodation in the North is a colonial residence owned by the family of the writer Le Clézio. It became a museum open to the public in 1986, and its owners set up a guest room in one of the outbuildings of the house.

How to recognize a colonial house?

Outside Mauritian colonial houses

First, colonial house easy to recognize from its external characteristics. In fact, they are very often large white houses of Creole or exotic inspiration. Outside views, they appear quite impressive by their dimensions and the character externalized by the facade. Moreover, it provides a singular charm to this type of housing, not devoid of aesthetics. Also, the external and exceptional layout allows to recognize colonial houses. Indeed, they still have well-maintained lawns and gardens; which helps to highlight the luxurious image of colonial houses.

Interior of Mauritian colonial houses

Second, colonial houses still have, for the vast majority of cases, a large central staircase and a reception room. The latter provide to the interior aspect of the house an impression of bourgeoisie and luxury displayed. In addition, these houses generally have several enfilade rooms, characteristics very appreciated at the time.

Famous colonial houses in Mauritius

Visit the Eureka House

It has been owned by many families from aristocracy of the island before failing in the hands of the family Le Clézio in 1863. Having subsequently been purchased, it has been made available to the public as a museum since 1986. The Eureka House features 14 rooms and 109 doors and windows. Considered in its time as one of the largest Mauritian dwellings, it can be visited with a guide. In addition to its history, there is also furniture in ebony and mahogany, which comes from the Company of India's epic (old windows, dishes, paintings, fine porcelain, ceramics, carpets, etc.), with a prime curiosity: a period bathroom with an original shower system and a marble bathtub. In addition, the living room is dotted with period murals. Some allow us to discover the city of Port Louis in colonial times. However, the residence has a Creole restaurant with a very good reputation.

Visit the Château LaBourdonnais

Property of the Wiehe family, the Château Labourdonnais was restored from 2006 to 2009, and today it has become a museum open to the public. It is a home that works effectively to safeguard the cultural and historical heritage of Mauritius. It is a clear expression of the ease of life enjoyed by colonial planters. First, the discovery of the building makes it possible to identify on the first level: the office of the master of the place, the large living room, the large dining room and other accessories of the period (silverware, dishes, decoration...). Secondly, on the second level, one can discover a projection room, the master bedroom with a four-bed and some exhibition spaces. Subsequently, it is possible to visit the garden that has endemic plants, exotic trees, an extraordinary variety of mango trees and exotic trees.