Mauritius Island

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  Thursday 8 january 2009   22:29
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Mauritius Island
Surface Area : 15394 hectares
Postal code : 97442
Population : 5080 inhabitants
Mayor : Hugues SALVAN

BIENVENUE DANS LA COMMUNE DE : SAINT-PHILIPPE

Saint-Philippe is indisputably the capital town of the wild south. The slopes of La Fournaise volcano, Mare Longue lush forest and a particularly virginal and abrupt coast are the main features of this “commune”. Far away from big towns, Saint-Philippe has managed to keep much of its authentic character. For a long time, inhabitants used to live thanks to the production of cloves, nutmegs and peaches. During the second half of the 19th century, sugar production started; two factories were founded: Baril and La Trinité.
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Recent lava flows
Many lava flows have stopped in Saint-Philippe. The commune became 25 ha wider following the third flow of the Pointe de la Table (1986). More recently, a lava flow started on March 9, 1998 and stopped at the end of September 1998.
  /lang-FR-page-588-2V-page,La-coulee-de-lave-coupe-la-RN2.html
  http://reunion.runweb.com/lang-FR-page-145-2V-page,Sous-la-coulee-de-lave-2004-du-Piton-de-La-Fournaise.html



Mare Longue forest
The biggest nature reserve of the island provides a habitat for some unique plant species. The trees are  high and have a dense foliage. Consequently, the sunrays have difficulty in penetrating. A distinctive feature of this forest: vanilla growing up  the casuarinas.
  /lang-FR-page-589-2V-page,La-foret-de-Mare-Longue-a-Saint-Philippe.html



Le jardin des parfums et des épices
At the heart of the Mare-Longue Forest, come and discover Réunion’s spices and aromatic plants. Enjoy an exotic journey in a friendly atmosphere.  Entrance fee: 6€. Opening hours : from 9 am to 5 pm. Departure time for the visits:10.30 am and 2.30 pm.
  /page-153-lang-FR-2V-page,Le-jardin-des-Parfums-et-des-Epices.html



Cap Méchant
One of the most popular spots of the south. Lava flows have formed a curious cliff which overhangs the ocean.
  /page-1154-lang-FR-2V-page,A-lassaut-du-Cap-Mechant.html



The fishing port
A small and modest harbour, it lies near  the entrance of Saint-Philippe (when coming from Saint-Joseph). A few small fishing boats and fishermen “ cases”.  Fishing is over lunchtime.



  http://www.villagescreoles.re