Grand Port

Aerial view of the Vieux Grand Port Archeological Site

Vieux Grand Port is the cradle of Mauritian history, as this is where people first settled on the inhabited island called Mauritius. The magnificent bay of Mahébourg has a number of sites which might have been settled, but the Dutch choose the high ground at Vieux Grand Port to build their fort. In the lagoon immediately below, they built a jetty from stones, which can still be seen to this day.

The Mauritius National Heritage Trust Fund is studying the archeological sites of the Island

Domaine du Chasseur (Domaine des Grands Bois)

Hidden in the hills at Anse Jonchée near Mahebourg on the south-Eastern side of the island is the magnificent park of Domaine du Chasseur covering 2,000 acres. On forest-clad slopes at an altitude of 300 to 500 metres live stages and deer, monkeys and wild boars among a luxurious vegetarian of ebony, eucalyptus, ravenals, palm trees and wild orchids. Rare species of birds such as the Kestrel can be seen in the woods.

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Domaine de I'Ylang Ylang

Le Domaine de I'Ylang Ylang rests at the foot of Anse Jochee Mountain, Vieux Grand Port. Its main resource is the plantation of Ylang-Ylang from the fragrant yellow flowers of which a perfume is distilled. The domain commands a panoramic view over the bay of Vieux Grand Port and the neighboring islets.
Hiking possibilities exist for nature-lovers and food sampling of farm products can be organized on request.

Ylang Ylang (pronounced "ee-lang ee-lang") is a wonderfully exotic and enticing floral pure essential oil. The name Ylang Ylang means "flower of flowers". It is said that in Indonesia people would spread these delicate and sweet-smelling flower petals on the bed of a newly married couple. This pure essential oil is produced by the steam distillation of the fresh flowers. Like jasmine, the ylang ylang flowers must be picked in the early morning hours when they are at their most fragrant.

Ylang Ylang has a sweet, rich and somewhat spicy aroma that has been called hypnotic and euphoric. Ylang Ylang is considered to be an aphrodisiac because it is simultaneously sedating as well as stimulating.

Just inhaling it's narcotic-like aroma can conjure up thoughts of a luxurious tropical island getaway spot! As an essential oil it has been credited with aiding in the treatment of frigidity and impotence. This essential oil's calming effect on the psyche undoubtedly helps to calm frayed nerves, thus creating a more meaningful and fulfilling intimate experience. An ylang ylang massage can be a wonderful way to cozy up with your partner! Ylang Ylang has been known to aid in stress reduction. Known for it's unique calming abilities, it is especially useful when nervous tension, anger and anxiety are present. Ylang Ylang is often considered to have anti-depressant qualities. This essential oil can be quite soothing, and as such, is excellent to use when relaxation is needed. A drop or two of Ylang Ylang in a diffuser at bedtime is said to be helpful in treating insomnia.

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