Black River loop via Case Noyale, Chamarel and Baie du Cap

Highlights

• You climb for about four kilometres to the mountain village of Chamarel. This village is home to the iconic Seven-Coloured Earth Geopark, a popular tourist attraction for geology and nature lovers. This unique landscape comprises colourful sand dunes that create beautiful patterns.
• Chamarel is also home to the rum distillery, La Rhumerie de Chamarel. Visitors can take part in guided tours of the estate to learn more about the production of Mauritian rum.
• You will notice many fruit and vegetable stands along the coastal road. They offer fresh, locally grown fruits that are perfect refreshments during a ride. My favourites are the small bananas and pineapples.

Ride Log

Black River to Chamarel: 0 km to 13 km

From the Cycling Zebra Bike Shop in Black River, you ride on the B9 to Case Noyale. The terrain is mostly flat with some slight undulations, making it relatively easy for cyclists.

There is just one climb to look for! In Case Noyale you turn left on B103 to start climbing the four-kilometre climb that takes you up 300 metres to Chamarel.

Chamarel to Baie du Cap: 13 km to 24 km

Chamarel is surrounded by tropical vegetation including ebony trees. Sugar cane and coffee plantations are common in the area. You will feel a cool climate in Chamarel compared to coastal areas.

This section of the route from Chamarel follows the B104 road and is mountainous with short, steep ascents and descents. You will pass by the Chamarel Seven Coloured Earths.

The descent to Baie du Cap features winding roads with hairpin bends.

Be aware! This section is a rollercoaster, with some sharp turns, before descending to Baie du Cap. When the road is wet, it is also slippery, especially on corners. Just be cautious while you enjoy the beautiful panoramic view of the ocean.

Baie du Cap to Black River: 24 km to 47 km

From Baie du Cap, you ride to Black River on road B9.

The seven-kilometre section from Baie du Cap to Le Morne is along the sea. Enjoy the view, especially when approaching Macondé Rock. It is one of the best viewpoints of Mauritius.

Café stops

Since this is a short ride, you may want to stop in La Gaulette on your return to Black River.

There is also a restaurant called The Chaser. Local cyclists stop there for their coffee break. I was told that the owners offer great breakfasts and dinners.

Accommodation

In Black River, you can rent guest houses through your preferred platform.

Alternatively, for hotel options in the southwest of Mauritius, take a look at our Mauritius guide for more information.

Tips

I found that the road surface was very good on this ride.

The best time to ride in Mauritius is early in the morning, leaving at around 6:30 – 7:00am (or earlier if you can!). For example, I found that on a Sunday morning at 7:00am, the traffic was pretty non-existent.

Discover more useful tips in this guide to cycling in Mauritius.

Found this guide useful?

We hope you enjoyed Claude’s ride suggestion and are feeling inspired to give it a go if you ever visit Mauritius. We’d love to hear from you if you do – comment below or drop us a line.

Check out Claude’s other Mauritius rides for more inspiration:

• Black River loop via Gris-Gris, Souillac and Chamarel
• Tamarin loop via Chamouny, Black River Gorges National Park, Vacoas and Casella
• Mahébourg to Pointe aux Piments

Claude is an avid cross-country skier and cyclist who is passionate about inspiring others to embrace a healthier lifestyle through sports. As a world traveller, he has enriched his experiences by participating in international skiing and cycling races across diverse cultures. Notably, he completed the Canadian Ski Marathon and several Worldloppet events between 1990 and 2000.

After a career with the UN and Canadian government, Claude shifted focus to the cycling industry. He has consulted for companies like Blade Carbon Wheels and Beet It, promoting their products in Canada and abroad. A pivotal moment came in 2006 when he completed l’Étape du Tour de France, igniting his passion for international road cycling.

Currently, Claude is an ambassador for Pactimo and is a contributor to Epic Road Rides. He is dedicated to discovering new cycling destinations and sharing his journey on social media, encouraging others to pursue their cycling passion.