Tropical Teas: Touring Mauritius’s Historic Tea Plantations

Beyond the sand and surf, the lush highlands of Mauritius boast historic tea plantations that invite travellers from all over the world; especially tea lovers. Let’s embark on a flavourful journey through Mauritius’s tea culture. Explore the must-try variants, visit six enchanting plantations, and savour the unique experiences they offer.

Much like the beautiful country of India, tea is an integral part of the local consumption choices. The tea-drinking cultures of India and Mauritius share similarities due to their colonial history, embracing chai as a popular social beverage with shared rituals. Both cultures appreciate masala tea, a spiced variant, and integrate tea into social, familial, and ceremonial settings, highlighting its role as a cultural connector.

Mauritius’ Love Story with Tea

Mauritius’ affair with tea dates back to the 19th century when French and British colonial powers recognized the island’s fertile soil as the perfect canvas for cultivating tea. The lush landscapes, gentle slopes, and ideal climate created an ideal environment for cultivating Camellia sinensis, the tea plant. The plantations became a vital part of the island’s history, weaving their story into the fabric of Mauritian culture.

Tea became more than just a beverage; it became a symbol of resilience and transformation. As you sip your cup of Mauritian tea, you are tasting the legacy of generations who tended to the plantations, preserving a tradition that has withstood the test of time.

Must-Try Mauritian Tea Flavours 

 

In the heart of Mauritius, tea plantations offer an array of aromatic teas, each with a unique personality that reflects the island’s diverse heritage. Here are some must-try variants that will tantalise your taste buds:

 

Bois Chéri Black Tea: The oldest tea plantation in Mauritius, Bois Chéri, produces a robust black tea with a malty flavour. It boasts a deep, rich flavour profile, loved especially by those who enjoy tea’s original taste

Corson Green Tea: Delicate and refreshing, Corson Green Tea is a testament to the island’s embrace of its multicultural influences. With a subtle floral aroma, and just a little hint of fruitiness, the tea is perfect to savour on a crisp morning. 

Saint Aubin Vanilla Tea: Infused with the sweet fragrance of vanilla, this tea from Saint Aubin Plantation adds a touch of island indulgence. It’s a delightful dance of flavours, with a medium-bodied flavour profile that mixes warm vanilla and sharp tea notes perfectly. 

Le Domaine des Aubineaux Spicy Chai: Combining Mauritian-grown tea with a blend of local spices, this chai from Le Domaine des Aubineaux offers a warm and invigorating experience. Like sugar, spice, and everything nice, it’s the perfect companion for a breezy afternoon in the highlands.

 

6 Must-Visit Tea Plantations and Experiences

Bois Chéri Tea Plantation: A Historical Sojourn

Le Bois Chéri Tea Plantation is situated in the central highlands of Mauritius, surrounded by undulating hills and verdant landscapes. Visitors to Le Bois Chéri are treated to an immersive experience that begins amidst the neatly manicured tea fields. Guided tours take you through the entire tea-making process, from the delicate plucking of tea leaves to the intricate steps of withering, rolling, fermentation, drying, and sorting. 

b. Saint Aubin Tea Plantation: A Fusion of Flavors

Saint Aubin presents a journey through its tea plantation that offers a holistic experience. On one side, you’re greeted by their generous plantation that produces the finest teas. However, on the flipside, you can also indulge in the delightful pairing of Mauritian teas with local delicacies for a sensory delight. Beyond the plantations you have their rum and vanilla tasting experience, where you’ll discover the intricate flavours that complement Mauritian teas. Another unique experience is the stunningly fragrant walk through their vanilla plantation; try it to believe it!

c. Corson Tea Estate: Where East Meets West

A visit to Corson is a cultural voyage, offering a tea tasting that showcases the harmonious blend of Chinese and French influences. As you stroll through the plantation, take in the fragrant air filled with the essence of tea leaves and local flora. For a unique touch, participate in a tea blending workshop, where you can create your personalised tea blend, encapsulating the spirit of this cultural fusion.

Le Domaine des Aubineaux: A Step Back in Time

Immerse yourself in the history of Mauritian tea at Le Domaine des Aubineaux. This plantation truly transports you back in time, as you explore the colonial house, and discover the evolution of the island’s tea industry through interactive exhibits. As a unique experience, join a traditional tea ceremony conducted by experts, providing insight into the rituals and customs that have shaped Mauritian tea culture.

Bonus: The Tea Route Excursion

For the adventurous souls, the Tea Route Excursion is a must. Take a trip through the picturesque landscapes of Bois Chéri, Saint Aubin, and Domaine des Aubineaux on a guided tour that combines the best of tea, history, and breathtaking scenery. As an additional thrill, take a hot air balloon ride over the tea plantations, offering a bird’s eye view of the lush greenery and rolling hills, creating a memory that will stay with you long after you leave the island.

Conclusion

As the sun sets over the tea-covered hills of Mauritius, you’ll carry not just the flavour of the island’s teas but also the echoes of its storied past. And if tea is your go-to beverage, as it is for people all over the world, then this is a bucket list experience! So, pack your bags, set out on this tea-infused adventure, and let Mauritius weave its magic through every aromatic cup.