La Gaulette: Discover the Hidden Gem of Mauritius
La Gaulette is a quiet fishing village on the south-west coast of Mauritius that offers dramatic scenery, world-class kitesurfing, and an authentic slice of island life away from the tourist crowds.
Where Is La Gaulette?
Nestled beneath the iconic Le Morne Brabant mountain on the south-west tip of Mauritius, La Gaulette is a small fishing village that has managed to retain its unhurried character despite growing interest from travellers seeking something more genuine than the all-inclusive resorts.
The village sits along a stretch of coast where the Indian Ocean meets a shallow lagoon, making it one of the finest kitesurfing and windsurfing destinations in the southern hemisphere.
Getting There
La Gaulette is roughly 50 kilometres from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport. By car, follow the coastal B9 road from Tamarin southward — the drive takes around one hour depending on traffic. Taxis and private transfers are available from the airport; agree the fare in advance, as metered taxis are not always present in this part of the island.
Kitesurfing and Water Sports
The flat-water lagoon and consistent trade winds make La Gaulette a mecca for kitesurfers. Several reputable schools operate here, offering lessons for complete beginners through to advanced riders. The best conditions run from May to November when the south-east trade winds blow reliably. Windsurfing and stand-up paddleboarding are equally popular, and equipment rental is straightforward to arrange.
Le Morne Peninsula
Just a short drive south of La Gaulette, the Le Morne Peninsula is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The dramatic basalt mountain served as a refuge for escaped enslaved people in the 18th and early 19th centuries and holds profound historical and cultural significance for Mauritius. Several guided hikes to the summit are available — the climb is steep but rewards you with panoramic views across the lagoon and the open ocean.
Where to Eat
La Gaulette has a handful of excellent local restaurants and beach shacks. Fresh grilled fish, octopus salad, and Creole curries are staples. For a sundowner with a view of Le Morne, several establishments along the waterfront offer cold Phoenix beer and rum cocktails as the sun dips below the horizon.
Accommodation
The village offers a range of smaller guesthouses and self-catering villas rather than large hotel complexes, which suits travellers who prefer a more independent experience. Prices are generally lower than comparable accommodation on the north or east coasts.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season from May to November brings the clearest skies and best conditions for water sports. December to April can be hot and humid with occasional cyclone activity, though accommodation prices are lower during this period.
Explore More
La Gaulette is one of Mauritius's most rewarding places to simply slow down. For more guides to villages, beaches, and experiences across the island, visit mauritius-life.com.
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