Tea Plantation of Bois Chéri

Bois Chéri is a charming village located in the southeast of Mauritius. The village is famous for its tea factory and plantation, which has been in operation since 1892. Bois Chéri is the first tea plantation in Mauritius, and today it is one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island.

The history of tea in Mauritius dates back to the early 19th century when the island was still a British colony. The British were the first to introduce tea to Mauritius, and the island's ideal climate and soil quickly made it a prime location for tea cultivation. In the late 1800s, a Frenchman named Pierre Poivre established the first tea plantation on the island in the Bois Chéri region.

Today, the Bois Chéri tea factory and plantation cover an area of over 250 hectares. The tea factory is located at the top of a hill, offering visitors stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The tea plantation is divided into several sections, each with its own unique blend of tea leaves.

Visitors to Bois Chéri can take a guided tour of the tea factory and learn about the history of tea in Mauritius. The tour includes a visit to the tea processing plant, where visitors can see how the tea leaves are harvested, withered, and dried. They can also see how the tea leaves are sorted and blended to create different types of tea.

One of the highlights of the Bois Chéri tea factory tour is the opportunity to taste different types of tea. Visitors can sample a variety of teas, including black tea, green tea, and flavored tea blends. The tea tasting experience is a great way to learn about the different flavors and aromas of tea and to appreciate the art of tea blending.

After the tea factory tour, visitors can explore the Bois Chéri tea plantation on foot or by train. The tea plantation is a peaceful and picturesque setting, with rolling hills covered in lush green tea bushes. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the tea fields and enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery.

The Bois Chéri tea plantation is also home to several exotic species of plants and trees, including camphor trees, eucalyptus trees, and bamboo. Visitors can learn about the different types of plants and their uses during a guided tour of the plantation.

Another highlight of a visit to Bois Chéri is the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Mauritian tea ceremony. The tea ceremony is a formal event that involves the preparation and serving of tea in a traditional manner. Visitors can learn about the history and etiquette of the tea ceremony and enjoy a cup of tea served with sweet local snacks.

In addition to its tea factory and plantation, Bois Chéri is also home to a variety of other attractions. The village has a beautiful lake that offers boat rides and fishing opportunities. Visitors can also explore the nearby Ganga Talao, a Hindu pilgrimage site that attracts thousands of visitors each year.

Bois Chéri is also known for its beautiful scenery, with rolling hills, lush forests, and picturesque villages. The village is a popular destination for hiking and cycling, with several trails and paths that wind through the countryside.

Overall, Bois Chéri is a charming and unique destination that offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the history of tea in Mauritius and to explore the island's beautiful countryside. With its tea factory and plantation, traditional tea ceremony, and stunning scenery, Bois Chéri is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Mauritius.