West Coast Marina (La Balise) - Mauritius

Room types at West Coast Marina (La Balise)

Spacious rooms and modern decoration with neutral shades make these rooftop accommodations perfect vantage points to immerse yourself into the exclusive marina lifestyle. The apartment comes with king sized, queen sized or twin beds, a fully equipped kitchen (kettle, refrigerator, microwave, plates, cutlery and other kitchen accessories), Weber BBQ, Coffee Machine, HD Flat screen TV, air-conditioning and Wi-Fi.

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Exquisitely designed, the villas take its inspiration from Mauritian architecture and express it in a contemporary coastal language. The 4 or 5 bedroom residences of 450- 530m2 are all fitted to international standards. Facing the canals or situated near the river banks, they are endowed with private moorings and pools. The apartment comes with king sized, queen sized or twin beds, a fully equipped kitchen (kettle, refrigerator, microwave, plates, cutlery and other kitchen accessories), Weber BBQ, Coffee Machine, HD Flat screen TV, air-conditioning and Wi-Fi.

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The apartment offers a splendid view from the terrace lounge and comprises of 3 air conditioned en-suite bedrooms, an open plan fully-equipped kitchen and living areas. The high standard of the villa, kitchen amenities and other features will ensure the whole family a marvellous holiday. The apartment comes with queen sized/ twin beds, a fully equipped kitchen (kettle, refrigerator, microwave, plates, cutlery and other kitchen accessories), Weber BBQ, Coffee Machine, HD Flat screen TV, air-conditioning and Wi-Fi.

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These apartments are located on the first and second floors and offer two or three bedrooms depending on the unit. They all have a balcony which offers breathtaking views of the tropical landscape and the calm marina. The apartment comes with king sized, queen sized or twin beds, a fully equipped kitchen (kettle, refrigerator, microwave, plates, cutlery and other kitchen accessories), Weber BBQ, Coffee Machine, HD Flat screen TV, air-conditioning and Wi-Fi.

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The premium apartments offer two or three bedrooms depending on the units and are each equipped with a private pool surrounded by beautiful tropical plants. Situated on the ground floor, these apartments offer impressive views of the canals with the occasional passage of a boat. The apartment comes with king sized, queen sized or twin beds, a fully equipped kitchen (kettle, refrigerator, microwave, plates, cutlery and other kitchen accessories), Weber BBQ, Coffee Machine, HD Flat screen TV, air-conditioning and Wi-Fi.

West Coast Marina (La Balise) - Sport & Leisure Activities

The west coast is a place to discover the mountains and the warm blue ocean... Should you not have a ground representative in Mauritius, we will be more than happy to point you in the direction of what to do in the west.

West Coast Marina (La Balise) - Hotel Facilities

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West Coast Marina (La Balise) - Location

West Coast Marina (La Balise) - Tripadvisor Reviews

What to Do in the Hotel's Region

Golf - West

Golf Unforgettable is the only word to describe around of golf on the course at Paradis Hotel. Set against the backdrop of majestic mountains, the fairways and greens curl along the shoreline of a spectacular bay. The claim that this is one of the most beautiful golf courses in Mauritius is a valid one.

Built within the resort's grounds, the 18-hole Par 72 golf course stretches along 5,924 meters between the iconic Morne mountain and the crystal-clear lagoon of the Morne peninsula.

Much of the creative design of the bunkers and fairways is attributable to international golf legend Tony Johnstone who has spent several years playing the course through its many evolutionary stages.

Carved into the rugged south-west savannah land coast of Mauritius, between mountain and sea, Tamarina Golf, Spa and Beach Club is the first residential golf estate on the island.

Tamarina Golf, Spa and Beach Club boasts 119 luxury villas, an 18-hole par 72 challenging Championship golf course designed by Rodney Wright, a Golf Academy, tennis courts and a clubhouse with a Pro Shop, a bar and a restaurant – Le Dix-Neuf.

Playing 6886 metres from the Professional tees, the course is laid out with standard four par 3’s and four par 5’s with remaining holes as par 4’s. Each hole offers five different teeing options, catering for all level of golfers: Professional, Championship, Club, Senior/Ladies Championship and Ladies tees. A fantastic 300-metre practice range is also provided with large putting greens and chipping and bunker facilities.

Due to the climate and the nature of the terrain, golfers are encouraged to use golf carts throughout the course. Over 6km of concrete golf cart paths have been designed for the comfort of the golfer and a halfway snack House is found between the 9th and 10th holes for refreshments.

This unique Estate is not only a haven of peace but also a golfer's dream with gentle breezes and the lowest average rainfall of the island!

Tamarina Golf is situated near Tamarin village, 25 km south of Port Louis and 45 km by car from the airport.

Big Game Fishing - West Mauritius

Mauritius has acquired over the years a solid reputation in terms of Big Game Fishing. It has been practiced by locals for years and the country is now considered as one of the best world Big Game Fishing destinations.

Big Game fishing targets large fish famous for their sporting qualities. The different species that can be caught in Mauritian waters include:

• Tuna
• Blue Marlin
• Black Marlin
• Bonito
• Mako Sharks
• Tiger Sharks
• Dorado
• Wahoo
• Yellow Fin Tuna
• Sailfish
• Dog Tooth

Big Game Fishing activities are offered in half-day and full-day packages by different centres across the island, with boats ranging from 36 to 47 ft for 4 to 8 passengers. Some packages sail 200 km away on fishing banks.

Big Game Fishing is also interesting for those non-fishermen, as the landscape seen as the boat is sailing is amazing and some packages provide a ride around the offshore islets north of Mauritius.

Boats are fully equipped with fighting chairs, different rods, GPS, radio, radars, safety equipment, medical kits, fire extinguishers and toilets, among others. The packages usually include snacks and beverages. They are manned by qualified staff that will help those unfamiliar with fishing techniques.

Kitesurf West

Mauritius, with its wide lagoons and South East Trade winds offers all the required ingredients for a thrilling kite surfing adventure. Mauritian waters offer opportunities both to beginners and experienced kite surfers; it is thus seeing more visitors choosing the destination for its kite surfing opportunities.

The country now counts 8 registered kite surf schools and rentals. As most water sports, these services are usually available within hotel premises, but are not limited exclusively to the hotel’s customers. Moreover, these schools main instructors have got the International Kiteboarding Organisation certification. These schools also offer kiteboard rental either per day or per week. The equipment is of international standards and regularly updated. Some schools also offer downwind and lagoon crossing trips for small groups interested in surfing around the island. However, they have to be booked well in advance for logistics reasons.

Even if experienced kite surfers are tempted to just go with the flow, it is advisable to have all necessary information, so as to know where the best spots are, what is the best time of the year and what are the precautions needed on specific spots.

When?
Since water temperature will not go below 20°C, there is no unsuitable season for kite surfing. Even the winds make it possible to kite surf all year round. However, during the months of June to January, winds can get very strong.

Where on West Coast?

Le Morne: One Eye
Le Morne is very famous today, and everyone agrees that its One Eye spot is the best kite surfing spot in the country, and some would even argue that it is the best in the world! As a matter of fact, semi professional and professional kite surfers from the whole world come to live the One Eye experience. This site can be exposed to smooth, extreme or strong winds, waves and currents. Kite surfing there gives the opportunity of having amazing panoramic views over the turquoise lagoon of Le Morne, as well as the imposing Le Morne Brabant mountain, just next to the spot. The sailing area hosts various hotels that give all facilities for kite surfing experience.

The tides at One Eye are higher during summer, especially between December and April, and the depth of the water will depend on the waves. Le Morne spot however does have a few hazards that have to be avoided, namely some large rocks. They is however clearly visible through the water.
The drawback at Le Morne spot however is that it attracts a lot of kiters, especially at week-ends where there are swimmers as well. It can thus be very crowded. Moreover, it can be challenging for beginners due to strong currents that can take them by surprise within seconds and pull them outside the lagoon. It is thus advisable that beginners consider the 16 other spots around the island.

Horse Riding West

Horseback riding is definitely not new to Mauritians, nor Mauritius. The least one can say is that it is a sport deeply rooted in the traditions of the country. The fact that we find here the oldest racecourse in the southern hemisphere is proof enough of that. The passion of horse racing is shared by (almost) all Mauritians. And that, irrespective of their ethnicity or social class...

But horseback riding is not practiced only on the Champ de Mars racecourse. There are quite a few equestrian centers on the island. You can most definitely stroll down the wide (and white) sandy beaches of the island on horseback. With the lapping waves in the background, you can enjoy the sun and scenery as a bonus. During the day, the sportiest and most experienced can also take a dip in the sea with their horses! This is a unique experience that can only leave you with good memories. In the evening, enjoy the sunset as you stroll quietly, alone, with your partner or your family.

The beach is not your favorite playground ? Well, you can also enjoy horse riding in lush vegetation on beautiful domains at the heart of the island. Some even extend over 2,000 hectares. You can also find equestrian centers in various localities of the island.

West
If you are passionate about horseback riding and want to see Mauritius from another angle, go to the South West. There you can walk on white sandy beaches, but also ride horses at the foot of the renowned Morne Brabant, emblem of the island. Both horses and ponies are available which should make kids and adults happy. Going more inland you can also find more traditional equestrian centers, with imported horses from South Africa and former racehorses. You will also find a little something for you to relax or a nice restaurant to enjoy a traditional Mauritian meal…

Port-louis

Port Louis, capital and main port of Mauritius was founded in 1735 by French governor, Mahé de Labourdonnais. Its residential population of above 150,000 is an intense intermix of races and cultures. Being a vibrant spot, it receives many visitors during daytime - commuters, locals, businessmen and tourists. Shopping and a visit to the city museums can be a very interesting way to learn about the historical and cultural aspect of the island.

The Central Market

The ‘bazaar’ (or central market) is located near the harbour on Farquhar Street. It opens everyday from 6am. In the colourful and bustling central market everything can be found, from food to clothing. In summer, it is advisable to visit the market early, before the heat of the day.

The market is divided into the vegetable, fruit, meat and the craft sections. A variety of tropical fruits, local food and crafted objects are sold at affordable prices. Calling out to passing customers, the vendors offer almost unlimited products and services and if you have good bargaining skills, then you are in for a treat. There is also an area where local snacks and drinks such as dholl puri and alouda are sold. If your stomach is sensitive then it is recommended not to try them. As you stroll around you will encounter many shops selling an eclectic range of interesting items such as clothes, hats, bags, accessories, souvenirs and many other items.

Caudan Waterfront

Caudan, built on the old docks on the sea front, is one of the biggest shopping malls in Mauritius. It comprises of more than 170 shops, restaurants, a casino, cinemas and a 5-star business hotel. You will also find international brands, a collection of local souvenir shops and the Blue Penny Museum which hosts two of the rarest and most expensive stamps in the world.

Blue Penny Museum

The Blue Penny Museum hosts a selection of maps, photographs and engravings from different periods in history. It also has a gallery for temporary exhibitions and a souvenir boutique. The pride of the museum's collection lies in two of the world's rarest stamps: the red one-penny and blue two-pence 'Post Office' stamps.

The stamps were engraved and printed locally by Joseph Osmond Barnard. In September 1847, Mauritius was the first British colony and fifth country in the world to issue postage stamps. The stamps were incorrectly printed with the words 'Post Office' rather than 'Post Paid'. These stamps now rank among the most valuable in the world.

The Blue Penny Museum, which conveys the history of the island's exploration, settlement and colonial period, provides an enriching experience.

Chinatown

Chinatown is a small area within Port Louis made of mostly Chinese restaurants, Chinese shops and other small businesses. Its cramped shops sell practically everything. Many hawkers sell Chinese foods as well. The elders of Chinatown still wear traditional dress and speak with a strong Chinese accent.

La Place D’armes

At the entrance of Place D’Armes, the statue of the French governor, Bertrand-François Mahé de La Bourdonnais, one of the founding fathers of Mauritius, dominates the view.

Theatre Of Port Louis

Built in the 19th Century, this timeless municipal theatre is one of the oldest in the Indian Ocean. It is decorated in a classic London theatre style and seats around 600 people.

Government House

Government House is one of the oldest and the most important building in Port Louis. The striking French colonial structures of this building were constructed in 1740 by Mahé de Labourdonnais. It was his official residence as governor.

Port Louis’ most imposing boulevard, Sookdeo Bissoondoyal, lined with royal palm trees leads up to Government House. Outside stands a typically solemn statue of the British Queen Victoria representative of Mauritian history. Some huge flame trees give shade to the entrance. Mauritius is one of the Commonwealth countries with the oldest democratic tradition.

Fort Adelaide

Fort Adelaide, or La Citadelle, named after Queen Adelaide, is situated on a hill overlooking the city and the harbour. It is at 240 ft. above sea level. The fort was built by the British around 1835 for the strategic purpose of guarding the harbour against enemy attacks and fires that broke in the city.

The British are thought to have built this fort in fear of a civil war from remaining French settlers on the island. There is an underground tunnel that links it with the harbour. Out of the four forts built in Port Louis it is the only one to have not ended up in ruins. Its black stone walls conceal the interior renovation work in progress since the early 1990s. Fort Adelaide was a fitting symbol of British strength, but the great building slowly decayed over the following one and a half centuries. It is now being transformed into a site of recreation and tourism.

Champ De Mars

Founded in 1812, Champ de Mars is another interesting place to visit, especially during the horse racing season. Situated in Port Louis, it is the sole horse race-track on the island. It is the oldest race course in the Indian Ocean and the second oldest in the southern Hemisphere.

As the most popular sport in Mauritius, a high level of professionalism has been reached in the organization of races over the last decades, thus, boosting competition levels, and creating a unique electrifying atmosphere on each race day. This is a great tourist attraction as well. You can expect around 30 000 visitors per race.

The first race-meeting usually starts in mid-May and ends normally in late November, with an average of nine horses per race. On average, some 60 horses participate on each racing day. Since the early 1990's, the Totalising System has been introduced and various betting combinations are now available. The standard of horses in Mauritius may not be as high as in Europe or U.S but the atmosphere during a race-meeting is definitely as exciting as anywhere else in the world.

Museum Of Photography

The small Photography Museum is the labour of love of local photographer Tristan Bréville. He’s amassed a treasure trove of old cameras and prints, including several daguerreotypes (the forerunner of photographs) produced in Mauritius in 1840. The museum also contains a vast archive of historical photos of the island, only a tiny fraction of which are on display.

 

This fascinating museum has one of the island’s oldest display of cameras prints and photographs of colonial Mauritius. Exhibits include an impressive glass-plate camera from 1880 and some wonderful archived photos, copies of which can be bought as souvenirs. You can discover more than 1000 photo apparatus, ancient photos, albums, photo frames, and if you are lucky, a Daguerréotype. This museum full of memories is definitely a place not to be missed.

The Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum, the oldest museum in Mauritius, is found at the centre of Port Louis. The Museum collection dates from early 1800. It contains unique, rare and even extinct specimens of the fauna of Mauritius and surrounding islets. The natural history museum is free for everyone. The only downside is that you need to have a very good memory as visitors are not allowed to take pictures. It does not have air conditioning, so it is advised to visit on a cool day. The most popular exhibition is that of the Dodo; its skeletons are on display. The museum is also a nice day out from the bustle of the capital; one can also learn about nature and marine life.

Casela World Of Adventures

Nestled majestically in the verdant Yemen Reserve in the Black River district, this glorious nature and animal park is a must see place in Mauritius. Spread over 250 hectares of rugged terrain, lush forest, scorched-earth safari and breath-taking gorges, the Casela Park hosts an eclectic range of indigenous and exotic species such as Java deer, wild boars, hares, macaque monkeys, big cats, rhinos, giraffes, camels, zebras, ostriches, mongoose and fruit bats, as well as ebony, pink pepper plants, and the list is just endless. Here, you will have the privilege to discover a whole new world of the mountain, nature and safari kingdom.

Besides, encountering the fascinating animal species, you have the choice to plunge in the world of adventures through various adrenaline-packed activities in the wild nature like engaging in Safari Quad Biking, photo-safari with the big cats and African mammals, canyoning, zip lining, Nepalese bridge, toboggan slide (adults and children) and 4D Cinema to discover the natural science and history of Mauritius.

Aapravasi Ghat

The 19th century immigration depot is a UNESCO World Heritage site that has a historical and cultural value to the Indian Diaspora in Mauritius. The Aapravasi Ghat is a historic complex of buildings located on the seafront in Port-Louis. It consists of the partial remains of three stone buildings built on the spot of an earlier depot site. It has an entrance gateway, a hospital block, remnants of immigration sheds, and vestiges of the service quarters.

 

The complex represents the beginning of the Great Experiment initiated by the British Government, where nearly half a million Indians were housed between 1834 and 1920. They were the first “indentured” labourers, brought to Mauritius by the British Government to work on sugar plantations after the abolition of slavery.

The highlight of the site is the Beekrumsing Ramlallah Interpretation Centre, which hosts children activities. To get into the depth of the Mauritian historical and cultural legacy, a visit to the Aapravasi Ghat is recommended.