Peaceful & Authentic Albion

Albion in a nutshell

Albion is a pleasant village on the coast of Mauritius which has been growing for the last fifteen years, but which has managed to keep its authenticity for the moment. It is located about 20 km from the capital Port Louis. On the edge of a beautiful sandy beach in a sheltered cove, Albion is a haven of peace. The weather is always nice (except during the rainy and hurricane seasons) and the proximity of the sea is very appreciable to refresh oneself even if the water is hot. The houses, some of which are of high standing, are mostly inhabited by middle-class Mauritian residents.

Climate

Albion, like most coastal villages, has a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The island experiences two distinct seasons: a hot and humid summer season from November to April, and a cooler and drier winter season from May to October.

During the summer season, temperatures in Albion can range from 25 to 33 degrees Celsius, with high humidity levels making it feel even hotter. This is the peak tourist season, with many visitors flocking to the island to enjoy the warm weather and beautiful beaches. The sea temperature also rises during this time, making it the perfect time for swimming and water sports.

However, it was unusual for Albion to experience heavy rain during the summer months of March and April 2023. This could be attributed to a variety of factors, such as climate change or unusual weather patterns. It is worth noting that Mauritius has experienced more extreme weather events in recent years, including cyclones and flooding.

During the winter season, temperatures in Albion can drop slightly, ranging from 20 to 28 degrees Celsius. This is still considered warm by many standards, and the cooler weather can be a welcome relief from the intense heat of summer. The winter season is also generally drier than the summer season, with less rainfall and more sunny days.

Regardless of the season, visitors to Albion should be prepared for high humidity levels, which can make it feel much hotter than the actual temperature. It is important to stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade or air conditioning when possible. Sunscreen and protective clothing are also recommended, as the strong UV rays can cause sunburn and other skin damage.

In conclusion, Albion's climate is generally hot and dry, with high humidity levels and temperatures ranging from 25 to 33 degrees Celsius during the summer season. However, it is important to be aware of unusual weather patterns and extreme weather events, such as heavy rainfall or cyclones, which can occur at any time of year. Visitors to Albion should take precautions to stay safe and comfortable in the tropical climate, such as staying hydrated, wearing sunscreen, and taking breaks in the shade or air conditioning.

Beaches (Public & less known)

Albion is home to several beautiful beaches. While there are a variety of beaches in the area, each with its own unique features and attractions, three of the most notable are the public beach, the rocky beach, and the beach with large round rocks. Each of these beaches offers a different experience for visitors, whether they are looking to swim, sunbathe, relax on the beach or simply enjoy the scenery.

The Public Beach with White Sand

The public beach at Albion is the most well-known beach in the area. It is a beautiful stretch of white sand that runs along the coastline, with clear turquoise waters lapping at the shore. This beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, with many people coming here to swim, sunbathe, and have picnics.

One of the unique features of this beach is the presence of several traditional fishing boats moored along the shoreline. These colorful boats are a common sight in many coastal villages in Mauritius, and are used by local fishermen to catch a variety of seafood, including fish, shrimp, and crab. Visitors to the beach can often watch the fishermen as they bring in their catches, providing a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of the village.

In addition to swimming and sunbathing, there are many other sea activities available at the public beach. Visitors can rent kayaks and paddleboards to explore the coastline, or go on a snorkeling tour to see the colorful marine life that lives beneath the waves. There are a few restaurants and a bar located near the beach, where visitors can enjoy a cold drink or a delicious meal.

The Beach with Large Round Rocks

Along the coast heading north from the public beach is another unique stretch of coastline, characterized by its large, round rocks. These rocks are a distinctive feature of the beach, and are thought to have been formed by centuries of erosion and weathering. This place is found at the intersection of Ave. des Dahlias and Ave. St. Géran.

Like the rocky beach, this beach is not suitable for swimming due to the presence of rocks and strong currents. However, it is a great spot for visitors who enjoy exploring and taking in the natural beauty of the area. The large round rocks create a dramatic and visually striking landscape, with the waves crashing against the rocks and the sea spray creating a misty haze.

Visitors to this beach can explore the area by foot, climbing over the rocks and taking in the stunning views of the coastline. The beach is a popular spot for nature lovers and hikers, who enjoy the challenge of navigating the rocky terrain and taking in the natural beauty of the area. You can even contemplate the lighthouse from a distant.

The lighthouse beach

Moving further to thee north is a rocky stretch of coastline that is less well-known but no less beautiful. This beach is characterized by its rocky outcroppings and tide natural pools, which are filled with fascinating marine life like crabs, sea urchins, and starfish.

While the rocky beach is not suitable for swimming due to the presence of rocks and strong currents, it is a great place for visitors who enjoy exploring tide pools and observing marine life. The rocky outcroppings provide a natural habitat for a variety of sea creatures, and visitors can spend hours exploring the pools and watching the creatures that live there.

The beach is also a popular spot for photographers, who are drawn to the dramatic rock formations, the stunning natural beauty of the area and of course the lighthouse. The rocky beach is a peaceful and tranquil spot, with few tourists and little noise pollution, making it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Lighthouse & Cliffs

The Albion Lighthouse, also known as the Pointe aux Caves Lighthouse, is a historical lighthouse located on the west coast of the island of Mauritius. It is situated on the Pointe aux Caves reef, a rocky outcropping near the village of Albion. The lighthouse was built in 1910 and has been in operation ever since, making it one of the oldest active lighthouses in the Indian Ocean.

The construction of the Albion Lighthouse was part of a larger effort by the British colonial government to improve navigation and maritime safety in the region. Prior to the construction of the lighthouse, ships navigating the waters around Mauritius faced significant hazards, including treacherous reefs and unpredictable weather patterns. The need for a lighthouse to guide ships safely into port was clear, and the British government provided funding for the construction of the Albion Lighthouse as part of this effort.

The lighthouse was designed by the British engineer and architect William Douglass, who was also responsible for the construction of several other lighthouses in the region. Douglass designed the Albion Lighthouse as a typical British-style lighthouse, with a cylindrical tower made of concrete and a lantern room at the top. The tower is painted white, with black bands around the middle and top to aid visibility.

The construction of the lighthouse was a challenging project, given the remote location of the site and the difficult terrain. The tower had to be built on a rocky outcropping that jutted out into the sea, and the construction team had to use dynamite to clear away some of the rock to make room for the foundation. Despite these challenges, the lighthouse was completed on schedule and began operation in 1910.

The Albion Lighthouse quickly proved to be an essential aid to navigation in the region. The bright light from the lantern room was visible for miles, and ships could use it to navigate safely around the Pointe aux Caves reef. The lighthouse also served as an important landmark for ships approaching the port of Port Louis, which is located several miles to the east.

Over the years, the Albion Lighthouse has played a significant role in the history of Mauritius. During World War II, the lighthouse was used as a lookout point by the British military, who were concerned about the possibility of a Japanese invasion of the island. The lighthouse keepers at Albion were also involved in the search for survivors of several shipwrecks that occurred in the waters around Mauritius during this time.

In 1953, the Albion Lighthouse was electrified, replacing the earlier oil lamps that had been used to illuminate the lantern room. The new lighting system was more reliable and required less maintenance, making it easier for the lighthouse keepers to keep the light burning around the clock.

Despite its importance as a navigational aid, the Albion Lighthouse has faced several challenges over the years. In 1994, the lighthouse was badly damaged by Cyclone Hollanda, which swept through the region with winds of over 200 kilometers per hour. The damage was extensive, with the lantern room and part of the tower collapsing in the storm. The lighthouse was repaired and restored over the next several years, and it was returned to service in 1997.

In recent years, the Albion Lighthouse has been recognized as an important historical landmark in Mauritius. In 2014, the lighthouse was added to the National Heritage List, which recognizes sites of historical and cultural significance in the country. Today, the Albion Lighthouse is open to visitors, who can climb the tower and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding coastline.

The Albion Lighthouse remains an important symbol of Mauritius's rich maritime history.

Albion is distinguished not just by its lighthouse, but also by other features that contribute to its uniqueness. The area is surrounded by untamed cliffs that serve as sobbing shoulders to the nearby turbulent seas' pounding waves, and the view from the cliffs is captivating, but you might get splashed by the waves. You'll be taken to secret tunnels inhabited by birds and bats as you descend the rocks.

Fishing and fisherman pirogues

Fishing is a popular activity in Albion, Mauritius, where both professional and occasional fishermen can enjoy the bounty of the sea. There are different ways of fishing in the high sea and near the rocky parts of the lighthouse, each with its unique challenges and rewards.

Professional fishermen in Albion use traditional pirogues to venture out into the high sea and bring back a variety of fish. These pirogues are small wooden boats that are manually propelled using oars or sails. They are typically between 3 and 8 meters long and can hold up to 6 people. Professional fishermen in Albion usually fish for commercial purposes, selling their catch early morning on the public beach.

One of the most common ways of fishing in the high sea is using longlines. Longline fishing involves attaching a main line to buoys on either end, with smaller lines and hooks spaced along the main line. Bait is placed on the hooks, and the line is left in the water for a few hours to attract fish. This method can catch a variety of fish, including tuna, swordfish, and marlin. The fishermen will often use sonar to locate schools of fish and adjust their position accordingly.

Another method used by professional fishermen is trolling, which involves dragging a line with bait behind a moving boat. This method can be effective for catching game fish, such as marlin, wahoo, and dorado. The speed and depth of the line can be adjusted to target specific species of fish.

Drift fishing is another popular method used by professional fishermen in Albion. This method involves allowing the boat to drift with the current while trailing lines with bait. The fishermen will often use chum to attract fish, which can include snapper, grouper, and barracuda. This method can be effective in areas with strong currents, as the boat will move with the flow of the water.

In addition to these methods, professional fishermen in Albion also use nets and traps to catch fish. This can include cast nets, which are thrown by hand to catch small fish near the surface, or gill nets, which are set in the water to catch larger fish. Traps can be used to catch lobsters, crabs, and other crustaceans.

Occasional fishermen in Albion often prefer to fish from the rocky part near the lighthouse, where they can use lines to catch fish. This method can be simpler and less expensive than using boats and nets, and can be a relaxing way to enjoy the scenery of the lighthouse and the sea.

One of the most common ways of fishing from the rocky part is using a simple line and hook. A weight is attached to the line to help it sink, and bait is placed on the hook to attract fish. The line can be cast out into the water and left to drift, or reeled in slowly to attract fish. This method can be effective for catching a variety of fish, including snapper, grouper, and jacks.

Regardless of the method used, fishermen in Albion should be aware of local fishing regulations and restrictions. Some species of fish may be protected, and certain areas may be off-limits to fishing. It is important to respect these regulations in order to protect the environment and ensure sustainable fishing practices.

In conclusion, fishing is a popular activity in Albion, Mauritius, where both professional and occasional fishermen can enjoy the bounty of the sea.

Hotels and guest house

Albion is great for accommodation, and while it is not known for its luxury hotels and resorts, there are still a number of accommodation options available for visitors. These include the Club Med, guest houses that can be booked on AirBnb, and private villas that can be rented for longer stays. Each of these options offers a different experience for visitors, depending on their budget, preferences, and travel style.

The Club Med

La Plantation Club Med is the only hotel located in Albion, and is a popular choice for visitors who want a high-end, all-inclusive experience. The hotel is located on a beautiful stretch of beach, with crystal clear waters and white sand. It offers a range of amenities and activities, including multiple restaurants and bars, a swimming pool, water sports, and nightly entertainment.

The Club Med is a great choice for visitors who want a hassle-free vacation, with everything they need right at their fingertips. The all-inclusive package includes meals, drinks, and activities, so guests can simply relax and enjoy their stay without having to worry about additional costs. The hotel also offers a range of excursions and activities, allowing guests to explore the island and experience all that Mauritius has to offer.

One downside of the Club Med is that it is quite expensive, and may not be within everyone's budget. Additionally, some visitors may find that the all-inclusive nature of the hotel limits their ability to explore the local area and experience the culture of Mauritius.

Guest Houses

For visitors who are looking for a more affordable and authentic experience, there are a number of guest houses available for booking on AirBnb. These guest houses are typically run by local families, and offer a more intimate and personalized experience than a large hotel or resort.

Guest houses on AirBnb in Albion vary in terms of size, amenities, and price, but many offer comfortable and well-appointed rooms, with access to shared spaces like living rooms, kitchens, and outdoor areas. Staying in a guest house can be a great way to experience local life and culture, and many hosts are happy to provide tips and recommendations for things to see and do in the area.

One potential downside of staying in a guest house is that they may not offer the same level of amenities and services as a larger hotel or resort. For example, there may not be a swimming pool, and guests may need to provide their own meals or do their own laundry. Additionally, some guest houses may be located in residential areas, which can be noisy or crowded at times.

Private Villas

For visitors who are staying on the island for several months, or who are traveling in a large group, renting a private villa can be a great option. Private villas offer a more secluded and private experience than a hotel or guest house, with access to their own swimming pool, outdoor areas, and amenities.

Renting a private villa can also be more cost-effective than staying in a hotel or resort, especially for longer stays. Many villas offer daily maid service and can be fully staffed, providing a level of luxury and comfort that is comparable to a high-end hotel.

One potential downside of renting a private villa is that guests may need to provide their own meals, or hire a private chef at an additional cost. Additionally, villas may not offer the same level of services and amenities as a hotel or resort, such as daily activities or excursions.

While Albion may not be known for its hotels and resorts, there are still a variety of accommodation options available for visitors. The Club Med offers a high-end, all-inclusive experience for those who want a hassle-free vacation, while guest houses on AirBnb provide a more affordable and authentic experience.

Sunsets scenes

Albion is known for its stunning sunsets, which draw visitors from all over the island to watch the golden hour unfold. Whether you're a photographer looking to capture the perfect shot, or simply someone who appreciates natural beauty, Albion's sunsets are not to be missed.

Sunset at public beach with pirogues

One of the most popular spots to watch the sunset in Albion is the public beach, where pirogues (traditional fishing boats) are moored in the lagoon. This spot offers a picturesque backdrop for photographers, with the colorful boats and calm waters reflecting the warm hues of the sunset.

The public beach is a great spot for families and groups, with plenty of space for picnics and relaxation. Visitors can bring a blanket or beach chairs and settle in for the evening, enjoying the gentle ocean breeze and the stunning views.

Watching the Sunset with the Lighthouse and Reefs

Another popular spot to watch the sunset in Albion is by the lighthouse, which stands at the edge of the village and offers panoramic views of the sea and surrounding landscape. The lighthouse is a historic landmark, and provides a unique perspective on the sunset as it illuminates the sky and waters below.

Visitors can also watch the sunset from the nearby reefs, which offer a stunning contrast of dark rock formations against the warm colors of the sky. The reefs are a popular spot for snorkeling and diving during the day, but offer an entirely different experience at sunset as the sea turns calm and peaceful.

Sun Setting Behind the Sea

Perhaps the most iconic aspect of Albion's sunsets is the way the sun sets behind the sea, casting a golden glow over the entire village. As the sky turns shades of orange, pink, and purple, the sea takes on a magical quality, reflecting the colors of the sky and creating a dream-like atmosphere.

This breathtaking sight is not to be missed, and draws visitors from all over the island to witness it firsthand. Whether you're sitting on the beach, watching from the lighthouse, or simply taking in the view from your accommodations, the sun setting behind the sea is a moment of pure magic that will stay with you long after your visit to Albion.

Tips for Watching the Sunset in Albion

If you're planning to watch the sunset in Albion, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you have the best possible experience:

• Plan to arrive early: While the sunset itself only lasts for a few minutes, the atmosphere leading up to it is just as important. Arrive early to stake out a good spot and enjoy the changing colors of the sky.
• Bring a camera: Whether you're a professional photographer or simply want to capture the moment, a camera is a must-have for watching the sunset in Albion. Be sure to bring extra batteries and memory cards, as you'll want to take plenty of photos.
• Dress appropriately: While Mauritius is generally warm year-round, it can get chilly in the evening, especially near the water. Bring a light jacket or sweater to stay comfortable as the sun goes down.
• Respect the environment: When watching the sunset in Albion, it's important to respect the environment and leave it as you found it. Pick up any trash you see, and avoid disturbing any wildlife or natural habitats.

Albion's sunsets are truly a sight to behold, and offer a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors to the island. Whether you're a photographer looking for the perfect shot, or simply someone who appreciates natural beauty, watching the sunset in Albion is an experience you won't soon forget. With a range of stunning locations to choose from, including the public beach, the lighthouse, and the nearby reefs, visitors can enjoy the magic of the sunset from anywhere.

People, development & Location

With a population of over 3,200 residents (source worldpopulationreview.com), Albion has registered the highest growth in terms of its residents among all towns and villages of Mauritius. This is due to quite a lot of property development projects for Mauritian people called “morcellement” (parceling in English) which have been created during the last 15 years. Among these new projects: Splendid View, Terre d’Albion and Petite Bretagne. Moreover PDS (property development scheme) projects for foreigners such as West Coast Albion villas and the Domes of Albion have emerged. Due to this increase in population, a shopping mall with 1 supermarket and 40 shops is being built actually. Over and above the developments, the inhabitants have been conquered with the proximity of Albion with major cities, their place of work and the beach.

The village is also home to a number of small businesses, including local shops, mini markets, and restaurants. Entertainment is rare and only a few restaurants are available, so it is preferable to have a vehicle to reach the nearby places such as Flic en Flac (is known for its lively nightlife), Port Louis the capital city or the Bagatelle Mall (for it’s shopping mall). Restaurants such as Les Robinsons, La Murene & Jeff Snack offer visitors a chance to experience authentic Mauritian cuisine.

Location & Transportation in Albion

Albion is served by a bus line from Port Louis and Rose Hill, but the transport stops at 7 pm. The main roads are generally in good condition, which is not the case on the smaller roads. On the other hand, driving is done on the left. Albion is located midway between Port Louis and Flic en Flac on Mauritius' west coast, in the Black River district. Albion is around 15 kilometers south of Mauritius' capital, Port Louis; the drive takes about 25 minutes, while the drive to the airport takes nearly an hour.

Overall, Albion is a charming and peaceful village that offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty and rich culture of Mauritius. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach getaway or a chance to explore the island's history and heritage, Albion is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Mauritius.