Just a short distance from Azuri, along the east coast, lie some beautiful natural spots that are perfect for family outings. We explored a few of them and they are truly worth the trip.

We visited three sites, all located within about fifteen minutes on foot or by car from Azuri Village: Bras d’Eau National Park, La Cave Madame and the Mangrove Nature Track.

Bras d’Eau National Park is less than fifteen minutes from Azuri on the road to Flacq. This area of dense, untouched forest covers 497 hectares and became Mauritius’ second national park on 25 October 2011.

Its peninsula shape surrounded by water gave rise to its name, Bras d’Eau. The park is a sanctuary for six rare plant species and two bird species, such as the Mauritius grey white eye, the Oeoniella polystachys orchid and two types of ebony. Information about the local flora and fauna is available at the visitor centre, which has a parking area and is located on the main road cutting through the forest. You will find it a few hundred metres after the wind turbines. We chose to take the “Coq de Bois” trail.

The trail leads to two natural pools located about two kilometres along a rocky path that winds through the undergrowth. Wear proper walking shoes, preferably with grip if it has rained, as some sections can be muddy. The forest is enchanting. The scents and sounds are mesmerising. The smell of damp earth fills the air as you move deeper into nature, losing all sense of the outside world. Tall trees stretch towards the sky, roots wrap themselves around the soil, ferns, moss, lichen and fallen leaves create a rich carpet, and piles of volcanic rock appear here and there.

Birdsong, a light breeze and hints of pine, eucalyptus and sea salt float in the air. After about 700 metres, the path splits. One direction leads to the two pools, the other forms a 2.3 kilometre loop through the forest before rejoining the main trail. This loop offers a chance to spot exotic birds. We did not try this part, which can be narrow in some areas. For an experienced walker, the Coq de Bois trail takes around one hour to one hour thirty for the round trip, including a visit to the centre. With the loop included, allow an extra hour. If you turn back at the fork, the walk takes around forty five minutes.

La Cave Madame, also known as the Roches Noires Caves, is a natural volcanic cave located on the main road through the village of Roches Noires, just five minutes from Azuri. Signs indicate the entrance on the left when coming from Azuri. You can park in the shade.

A small landscaped garden surrounds the stone staircase leading down to the cave, whose floor is paved. At the bottom, a thin stream of fresh water forms a small pool. The ceiling is low and even using our phone torches we could not see far.

Turn around to look back at the cave’s entrance. The light contrast is stunning. This magical place has a calming effect and a few minutes in the cool shade is enough to feel refreshed.

Entry is free.

Be careful of slippery rock surfaces and ensure children stay away from the edge.

The Mangrove Nature Track at Radisson Blu is just steps away. Children staying at the hotel follow the sandy path to the beach accompanied by a guide who explains how mangrove ecosystems work and the biodiversity that thrives in them. Walk among the roots of the manglié, the mangrove trees, which shelter crabs, birds and many other coastal and wetland species.

Parents can accompany their children and follow the marked educational signs. The duration of the visit is entirely up to you.

Entry is free.

Flip flops, insect repellent, sunscreen and hats are recommended.
For more details about the Mangrove Nature Track, contact the Kids Club or Reception at Radisson Blu: 402 3700