Mahebourg is a fishing town in Mauritius. It lies on the shores of the Grand Port bay and the primary occupation of the citizens is fishing. This serene town is surrounded by low lying hills, and it lies conveniently close to the Port Louis Airport. Mahebourg was named after the French Governor Mahe Le Bourdonnais, who established Mauritius as a part of the French colonial empire. It also renowned for its educational institutions, the largest bridge in Mauritius and a Naval Museum houses in an old French villa.
The people of this small fishing village are friendly and hospitable. You will come across people from all ethnicities, African, European and Asian, though after the passage of centuries, the ethnic lines have blurred. The streets are less crowded than Port Louis, and you can find tourists from all nationalities and backgrounds relaxing on the quiet beaches.
The Naval Museum is houses in a villa dating back to 1810. It is hard to believe that this peaceful place was the site of a great battle fought between the French and the English over the possession of the island. The museum also has a preserved Mauritian village settlement, where visitors can get a glimpse of the typical lifestyle of the rural Mauritian inhabitants. Mauritius' longest bridge connects the two banks of the La Chaux River, and is one of Mahebourg's major tourist attractions.
Of course, the sea beaches are the major attractions of Mahebourg. Also visit the cluster of hills that provides a picturesque backdrop to the town. The bazaar of Mahebourg sells some great souvenirs and knick-knacks, and you can pick up great bargains at the weekly fair.
