FERNEY VALLEY

Opened in 2006, the Vallée de Ferney is one of Mauritius's rare biodiversity sanctuaries, guaranteeing the future of its indigenous flora and fauna. Here, in an area of 200 hectares that can be explored on foot along marked paths, naturalists have worked to eliminate invasive exotic varieties (ravenal, cinnamon, Chinese guava...) to allow only the native plants that populated the island at its origins to flourish. We discover little-known and even very rare species of local flora such as Bois Clou, Bois Dur, Bois de Pomme, Bois Poupart, etc. The introduction of endangered bird species, such as the marsh pigeon and the large green civet, and the presence of kestrels and turtles confirm the naturalists' determination to make walkers aware of the extinction of species and the conservation of ecosystems. The guided walk is educational, with a wealth of explanations and anecdotes. It covers 3 km and includes a climb up a small hill to a magnificent viewpoint over the southeastern lagoon. The 4x4 tour, which lasts a choice of 1 or 2 hours, also passes through the Valley and then travels along other forest tracks offering beautiful views of the Mauritian coastline. There is also a choice of 5, 13 or 18 km marked walks. Departures are from a beautifully renovated typical Creole house.

Sleeping accommodation: Ferney Nature Lodge. For lunch: Restaurant de Ferney Falaise Rouge, 3 km from the Valley.