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Rodrigues

Blissfully isolated more than 600km northeast of the mainland, this tiny volcanic outcrop surrounded by a massive turquoise lagoon is a stunning mountainous gem that barely feels connected to its big sister, Mauritius, let alone the wider world.

Often billed as the 'Mauritius of 25 years ago', Rodrigues actually bears little resemblance to its neighbour beyond the scenic strips of peach-tinged sand. The island's population is predominantly African and Creole and you won't find a stalk of sugar cane anywhere on Rodrigues' hilly landscape. The pace of life, too, is undeniably slow, which gives the island its time-warped vibe. Great food, some fine natural sites and a host of activities round out an experience that lives long in the memory as one of those beautiful forgotten worlds in some remote corner of the globe.

Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Rodrigues.

  • See

    François Leguat Reserve

    In 1691 François Leguat wrote that there were so many tortoises on Rodrigues that 'one can take more than a hundred steps on their shell without touching the ground'. Sadly the Rodrigues version of the giant tortoise became extinct, but this reserve is recreating the Eden described by the island's early explorers. Hundreds of tortoises from elsewhere (the outcome of a breeding program) roam the grounds, and more than 100,000 indigenous trees have been planted. Cave visits are also possible.

  • See

    Grande Montagne Nature Reserve

    One of the last remaining stands of forest on Rodrigues, this nature reserve crowns the island's summit. The Mauritian Wildlife Foundation has planted more than 200,000 native plant species across more than 25 hectares, and the restoration of this ecosystem has ensured the survival of the Rodrigues fody and the Rodrigues warbler bird species, as well as the Rodrigues fruit bat. The MWF runs free guided tours weekdays and Saturdays – no need to book.

  • See

    Saturday Market

    The Saturday market is as busy as Rodrigues gets and it's the best place on the island to shop for fresh produce and souvenirs. It's open the rest of the week but really gears up on Saturday, when much of the island turns out. It's next to the bridge near the post office. Turn up later than 10am and you'll wonder what all the fuss is about.

  • See

    Trou d'Argent

    One of the loveliest cove beaches anywhere in the Indian Ocean, this isolated spot, enclosed by low cliffs, is accessible only on foot on the coastal trail between St François and Graviers. Local legend has it that a pirate once hid his treasure here.

  • See

    Caverne Patate

    Caverne Patate, in the island's southwestern corner, is an impressive cave system with a few stalagmite and stalactite formations. Visit is by guided tour, during which a guide points out formations with uncanny resemblances to a dodo, Buckingham Palace and even Winston Churchill! The 700m tunnel is an easy walk but gets slippery in wet weather; wear shoes with good grip and take a light jacket. Watch for the spectacular white-tailed tropicbirds soaring overhead before you go underground.

  • See

    Jardin des 5 Sens

    This pretty little botanical garden of indigenous Rodriguan plants is an interesting way to spend an hour, not to mention a good initiative. Time your visit to coincide with lunch at the attached Chez Jeannette.

  • See

    La Résidence

    One of the oldest buildings still standing in Port Mathurin, La Résidence dates from 1897, when it provided a fairly modest home for the British chief commissioner. Its facilities are now used as function rooms for the new Regional Assembly. As such it's closed to the public, though it is possible to get an idea of the structure from the veranda of the tourist office across the road.

  • See

    St Gabriel Church

    This surprisingly grand church in the middle of Rodrigues has one of the largest congregations in the Port Louis diocese. Constructed between 1936 and 1939, it was built by local volunteers who arduously lugged stone, sand and coral from all corners of the island. Christianity is an integral part of life on the island – hundreds upon hundreds of Rodriguans gather here every Sunday.

  • See

    Church

    This church is a local landmark – its Sunday-morning Mass is standing-room only.