Mauritius is a Euro-centric island, influenced by many cultures, but for its own history, sugar and rum reign supreme. After exploring the Chamarel Rhumerie, I had the opportunity to visit the L’Aventure du Sucre museum in Pamplemousses, where you can learn about sugar production and sample rums. L’Aventure du Sucre, meaning ‘Sugar Adventure’, is a sugar museum and home to the famous Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden.
The first evidence of this sugar mill’s sustainability is the use of sugarcane waste to create creative sculptures that beautify its grounds. Broken Wings, Princess and Her Dog, and Quarterback are the names I’d call these cane sculptures, if I had to. These sculptures by Mauritian art students show the way to the most essential sugar refiner I’ve ever seen. The unassembled wire is aesthetically pleasing enough to inspire you to visit the factory to learn more.
The blue pennant of the museum, the yellow of Boutik and the pale green of the restaurant lead the way. Ecotourism museums, shops and restaurants are part of the Mauritian tourism enterprise L’Aventure du Sucre. For those interested in learning about the history of Mauritius, this is a fascinating place, from colonial times to the history of the island’s sugar cane plantations. Because, sugar has an extraordinary presence that has left an indelible mark on Mauritius’ history and identity.
However, before visiting the factory, don’t forget to check out the colorful model train in the garden with the Mauritius flag. Another notable model is a giant grey lever opposite the train. The museum itself is a beige structure that welcomes you into an environment that transports you to Mauritius’ ancient past. The inside of the sugar factory is layered on top of each other, and each one is fascinating, from the old boat surrounded by barrels to the markings of sugar cane growth.
Sugar, once coveted as gold, precious as Indian spice, and tasted as sweet as silk around a woman’s neck, has a long and illustrious history in Mauritius that has left an indelible mark on the country’s identity. When I visit the museum, I learn about sugar and the rich history of Mauritius, and how it all contributed to the wonderful multicultural culture that is today. The huge reconstructed sugar factory is one of the most impressive sights on the island, located in this stunning tropical area!
The Botanical Gardens of Pamplemousses, the bougainvillea and coconut alleys, and the ponds flanked by beautiful plants are all close to L’Aventure du Sucre. When visiting this sugar museum, see the old Beau Plan sugar factory that operated from the 18th to the 20th century. The tour begins with the sounds of forest and ocean playing against the backdrop of the vast factory, illuminated by a thousand lights, including large displays, floating barges and unexpected train whistle.
Here, I took an interactive and fun journey through the heart of Mauritius, learning about the island’s history related to sugar cane, the secrets of sugar making, and the famous sugar cane by-product rum, electricity and natural fertilizers.
One of Mauritius’ top museums is housed in this former Beauplan sugar factory. The original factory opened in 1797 and ran until 1999. Much of the equipment is still in operation, and former employees can answer questions about the facility and the complex process of turning sugar cane into crystals. It not only delves into the story of sugar, but also covers the history of Mauritius, slavery, the rum trade, and more. Set aside a few hours to fully appreciate it. There are also videos, quizzes and interactive exhibits for children.
You can sample some of the 15 unrefined sugars at the end of the tour, two of which were invented in Mauritius. However, you must book their cane cutting tour in advance. Boutiques sell gourmet gifts such as incense candles, amber rum, sugar bags, and other small souvenirs such as souvenirs, and Restaurant le Fanourin serves exquisite dishes. Guided tours are available Monday-Thursday from 10:30am to 2:00pm for INR 150 per person in Mauritius and free for children under 18.
