Cap Malheureux is a picturesque beach in the northern part of the island. The name “Cape Malheureux” comes from the French meaning “Cape of Misfortune” as they were defeated there in a battle with the British. Cape Malheureux is also a starting point for the many catamarans and excursion of speed boats that offers visitors a tour of the small islands, such as Flat Island, famous for its lighthouse, Round Island, a sanctuary for native animals and Coin de Mire.
Cap Malheureux is still a nice beach for swimming and for a walk to admire the beauty of the islands, which can be found a few meters from the shore a spectacle view for lovers of postcard scenery and tropical paradise. You will find crystal clear sea, ideal for small swim in a quiet place. Today the village is a quiet and best known for his church, la Notre Dame Auxiliatrice with its stunning red roof that does not go unnoticed. The nudist is prohibited, but topless sunbathing is accepted. The best time to visit the beach of Cap Malheureux is early in the morning from 7:00 to 11:00 or in the afternoon from 13:00 to 17:00.
Cap Malheureux Beach and Notre Dame Aurilliatrice Chapel
Probably one of the most well known photography spots in Mauritius: the little church with the red roof located in Cap Malheureux on the north of the island, a 10 minutes drive from Grand Bay. Services are held on Saturdays at 18.00 and Sundays 09.00 at Notre Dame Auxiliatrice.
History of Notre Dame Auxiliatrice Chapel
The Notre Dame Auxiliatrice Church is famous for its lovely red roof which attracts a lot of curious passers-by and a picturesque background for postcard-worthy snaps. It is a historical point which marks the arrival of the British onto the island in 1810. The church was build in the memory of victims of a shipwreck and has a beautiful altar carved of stone. The chapel, founded in 1938 is very simple inside. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. This Roman Catholic Church draws in a lot of visitors as well as worshippers. On Sundays, the church is overflowing with tourists and locals, who sit outside on the steps and the grass, and the Mass is an altogether lively experience.
Although it feels like rather a backwater today, Cap Malheureux is indeed a place of great historical importance for Mauritius. It was this place where the British invasion force finally defeated the French and took over the island in 1810.Famous for its Roman Catholic Church with bright red roof has made this village of Cap Malheureux a very popular destination among tourists. Stop by in the afternoon and you might catch the local fishermen bringing in their catch, or simply sit for a while and admire tremendous views across to the islands of Coin de Mire, Ile Plate, Ile Ronde, Ilot Gabriel and Ile aux Serpents.
Activities at Cap Malheureux beach
There are different activities that you can do / embark to do from Cap Malheureux.
- Deep sea fishing
- Speed boat trip
- Catamaran cruise
- Speed boat to visit Coin de Mire island
- Shore Fishing
- Diving
