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Pointe du Diable Battery

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Aug 2026Data Sources

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The Pointe du Diable Battery, located on the eastern coast of Mauritius, is a compelling example of colonial defensive architecture. Established by the French in the 18th century, this coastal fortification was designed to protect the strategic harbour of Grand Port from British naval incursions. The name, meaning "Devil's Point," refers to the treacherous currents and winds that often plagued mariners navigating this stretch of coastline. Today, visitors can examine the well-preserved foundations and several historic cannons that still point out towards the Indian Ocean. From the battery’s elevated position, one can enjoy panoramic views of the turquoise lagoon and the distant mountain ranges. The site serves as a poignant reminder of the naval skirmishes between France and Britain that shaped the island's colonial history. The tranquil atmosphere today stands in stark contrast to its original purpose as a heavily armed sentinel guarding the island's shores.

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Location: Mauritius
Highlights: Mont Brisé · Pointe du Diable · La Meule Permaculture Farm
Nearby: Bois des Amourettes (6 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	27	27	27	25	24	23	23	23	23	25	26
Rain mm	130	119	135	90	48	30	25	25	29	31	32	51

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Pointe du Diable Battery ruins are open to the public at all times with no entry fee required. Visitors can freely walk around the exterior, examine the cannons, and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery.

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Typical hours

Since the battery is an unprotected ruin, it has no set visiting hours. It is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset, but for safety, avoid visiting in darkness or bad weather.

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Photography

You are welcome to take photos anywhere on the site without any restrictions. Early morning or late afternoon light enhances the cannons and the dramatic coastline.

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Time needed

A typical visit takes around 30 to 45 minutes to walk around the battery and inspect the cannons. History enthusiasts or photographers may want to budget up to one hour.

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Combine with

Combine this battery with a visit to the nearby Blue Bay Marine Park or the Mahebourg market and waterfront. The east coast beaches like Belle Mare and other colonial forts also complement a half-day tour.

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Getting there

The battery is best reached by car along the coastal road from Mahebourg; parking is available near the site. Public transport is limited, so renting a car or hiring a taxi is recommended for convenience.

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Insider tip

Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes to navigate the uneven and rocky terrain around the cannons. Bring water, sun protection, and a hat as the site is exposed with little shade, ideally visit early morning or late afternoon.

Geography

Coordinates

-20.34550, 57.76520

Facts

Built around 1750
Located at Vieux Grand Port
Original cannons present
French military architecture
Coastal defense site
Strategic viewpoint

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Fort Frederik Hendrik5 km · SWExplore →

Bois des Amourettes6 km · SWExplore →

Ile de la Passe6 km · SExplore →

Ile aux Fouquets Lighthouse6 km · SEExplore →

Grand River South East7 km · NExplore →

Olivier7 km · SWExplore →

Domaine de l'Etoile7 km · NWExplore →

Ile aux Aigrettes9 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Motorhome dimensions

Lengthm Widthm Heightm Weightt

Sights in the town Pointe du Diable Battery (4)

Mont Brisé

A mountain peak in Mauritius, part of the mountain range in the southeast of the island.

Pointe du Diable

A viewpoint on the southeast coast of Mauritius overlooking the open sea.

La Meule Permaculture Farm

A farm operating on permaculture principles, offering guided tours.

Kestrel Valley

A viewpoint in a gorge, named after the Mauritius kestrel.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is the place called Pointe du Diable?

Due to the dangerous currents in this section of the coast.

What is there to see historically?

There are old cannons that guarded the coast.

Can you swim there?

No, it is very dangerous there due to the strong currents.

Is there parking?

There are limited options on the roadside.

How much time to plan?

A short stop of 15-20 minutes is enough.

Pointe du Diable Battery: where is it located?

Pointe du Diable Battery is located in Mauritius.

Pointe du Diable Battery: what is there to see?

Highlights include Mont Brisé, Pointe du Diable, La Meule Permaculture Farm.

Pointe du Diable Battery: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

Pointe du Diable Battery: why is it worth visiting?

The Pointe du Diable Battery, located on the eastern coast of Mauritius, is a compelling example of colonial defensive architecture.

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