Ile aux Cerfs

Ile aux Cerfs, meaning "Deer Island," is a privately owned, uninhabited island located off the east coast of Mauritius, within the Trou d'Eau Douce lagoon in the Flacq District. Historically, the island was home to a population of Java deer, introduced in the 17th century for hunting, though these deer have since disappeared. The island spans approximately 87 hectares and is renowned for its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise lagoons, and lush tropical vegetation, including mangroves rich in biodiversity. It is composed of a main islet to the south and a smaller, private islet to the north, Îlot Mangénie, separated by a sand spit.Today, Ile aux Cerfs is a prominent leisure destination offering a wide array of activities and amenities. Visitors can enjoy various water sports such as parasailing, water skiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, pedal boating, sailing, and glass-bottom boat trips, with opportunities for snorkeling in the surrounding coral reefs. For those preferring land-based activities, there's an aerial adventure park and hiking trails that allow exploration of the island's interior, revealing tropical forests and even waterfalls. The island is also home to the Ile aux Cerfs Golf Club, an 18 or 19-hole championship golf course designed by Bernhard Langer, covering 38 hectares with ocean views from every hole.Dining options include several restaurants and beach bars like Sands Grill, La Plaz Bar Restaurant, and La Flibuste, offering Creole, Mediterranean, European cuisine, and barbecues. While there are no traditional hotels, the island features unique eco-bubble lodges for overnight stays, providing a distinctive experience. Access to Ile aux Cerfs is primarily by boat shuttle from Pointe Maurice, with separate services for the leisure island and the golf club, or through catamaran excursions from various points along the coast.