Cap Malheureux & Red Roof Church
Iconic crimson-roofed chapel set against the azure Indian Ocean, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful spiritual ambiance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Cap Malheureux & Red Roof Church
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic crimson-roofed chapel set against the azure Indian Ocean, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful spiritual ambiance.
"A charming piece of Mauritius, the red-roofed church is absolutely stunning and full of character."
📸 Drone Friendly Spot
You're allowed to fly drones here, perfect for capturing unique aerial shots! :camerawithflash:
⛪ Church Access
The church may be closed at times, especially if there's a wedding. Visit earlier or later for better access. :church:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Red Roof Church
Cap Malheureux
A stunning crimson-roofed chapel set against the azure Indian Ocean. A postcard-perfect scene.
Seaside Views & Islands
Near the church
Breathtaking ocean vistas with distant views of Copper, Flat, and Round Islands on clear days.
Local Beach BBQ Experience
Beach behind the church
Enjoy fresh fish cooked on the beach in a relaxed, multicultural atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Photos
Embrace Local Flavors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Drone Friendly Spot
You're allowed to fly drones here, perfect for capturing unique aerial shots! :camerawithflash:
⛪ Church Access
The church may be closed at times, especially if there's a wedding. Visit earlier or later for better access. :church:
🐠 Fresh Seafood Delights
Don't miss the chance to try local seafood, especially the beach BBQ on Sundays. +2 :fish:
🚗 Easy to Reach
Located in the north, it's a short drive from Grand Baie for a scenic stop. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Drone Friendly Spot
You're allowed to fly drones here, perfect for capturing unique aerial shots! :camerawithflash:
⛪ Church Access
The church may be closed at times, especially if there's a wedding. Visit earlier or later for better access. :church:
🐠 Fresh Seafood Delights
Don't miss the chance to try local seafood, especially the beach BBQ on Sundays. +2 :fish:
🚗 Easy to Reach
Located in the north, it's a short drive from Grand Baie for a scenic stop. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Red Roof Church's stunning beauty, calling it a postcard-perfect spot with breathtaking ocean views. The peaceful atmosphere and unique crimson roof are major highlights. Many appreciate the free access and the opportunity for drone photography. Some note that the church may be closed at times, and Sundays can be busier due to local events.
"A Charming Piece of Mauritius
The red-roofed church is absolutely stunning and full of character. Its striking crimson roof against the bright blue sky creates a picture-perfect scene that feels straight out of a postcard. Behind it, the sparkling blue Mauritian ocean glistens in the sunlight, adding a breathtaking backdrop to this peaceful spot. As a place of worship, it carries a quiet spiritual presence that makes the visit even more meaningful. Best of all, it’s completely free to visit – a true must-see in Mauritius and perfect for a quick stop to admire the view, take photos, and reflect.
You are also allowed to fly your drones here!"
Adele Dorey
"Beautiful spot! Lovely little beach great views and this gem of a church set on the seafront - there was a wedding on when we visited so didn’t go in, visit earlier or later in day for less people around."
Nigel Hopwood
"Phenomenal views nearby the church. The church itself is beautiful. It was closed when we visited. There is a dock nearby where a lot of people were there. Some of them were fishing, some were snorkelling and a couple was having a photoshoot. Looks like the place comes straight out of a fairy tale. Highly recommended. Must visit place in Mauritius."
Urvashi Ramdasani
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cap Malheureux is located in the north of Mauritius. It's easily accessible by car or taxi from major tourist hubs like Grand Baie, typically a short 10-15 minute drive. Public transport options might be available but are less direct.
No, Cap Malheureux is very close to Grand Baie, just about a 10-minute drive away. This makes it a convenient stop for a quick visit or as part of a larger northern tour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting the Red Roof Church and the surrounding area is completely free. It's a public spot for admiration and photography.
The church's interior access can vary. It's best to visit during daylight hours. Sometimes it might be closed for services or private events like weddings.
Yes, drone flying is permitted in this area, offering fantastic aerial photo opportunities of the church and coastline. :camerawithflash:
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours, early morning and late afternoon, offer the most beautiful light for capturing the church's red roof against the blue sky and sea. Midday sun can create harsh shadows.
The area directly in front of the church offers classic views. For wider shots, explore the nearby beach and the dock for different perspectives of the coastline and distant islands.
The church's striking red roof is its main feature. Also, look for the exquisite woodwork inside and the holy water basin shaped like a giant clamshell.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There's a popular beach BBQ behind the church, especially on Sundays, serving fresh local fish. You can also find restaurants and cocktail spots in nearby Grand Baie.
Cap Malheureux is known for its fresh seafood. The beach BBQ offers a fantastic opportunity to try grilled fish prepared locally. +1
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Enjoy the beautiful seaside views, relax on the beach, and experience the local beach BBQ on Sundays. You can also spot distant islands like Copper Island.
Crowds can vary. Weekends, especially Sunday afternoons, might be busier due to the beach BBQ. Visiting on a weekday or earlier/later in the day can offer a more peaceful experience.
On a clear day, you can see Copper Island, Flat Island, and Round Island from the shore near the church.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
On Sundays, the beach BBQ can be a fun, casual outing where kids can enjoy the lively atmosphere and perhaps try some grilled fish. It’s a great opportunity for them to experience local culture in a relaxed setting. Remember to bring sun protection and plenty of water, as it can get warm.
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
Explore the dock and beach areas for diverse compositions. The distant islands on a clear day add depth to your shots. The Sunday beach BBQ offers a chance for candid, vibrant street photography.
🚗 Day-Trippers
Combine your visit with other northern attractions like Grand Baie's beaches or Pamplemousses Botanical Garden. If visiting on a Sunday, the beach BBQ adds a unique cultural and culinary element to your day.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of the Red Roof Church
Visitors often describe the atmosphere as peaceful and spiritual, even when busy. The setting is idyllic, with the sparkling sea providing a breathtaking backdrop. It’s a place that feels like it’s straight out of a fairy tale, perfect for quiet reflection or simply soaking in the beauty of the Mauritian landscape.
While the church itself is a focal point, the surrounding area also offers delightful experiences. You can often see people fishing or enjoying photoshoots on a nearby dock. On Sundays, the beach behind the church comes alive with a relaxed open-air BBQ, where locals and tourists mingle, enjoying freshly grilled fish and the laid-back island vibe.
Capturing the Perfect Shot
Beyond the classic frontal view of the church, explore the nearby beach and the small dock. These vantage points offer different perspectives, allowing you to capture the church in its broader coastal setting, including the distant islands. If you have a drone, this is an excellent location to use it, as drone photography is permitted here.
Remember that the church may be closed for services or private events, so plan your visit accordingly.
A Taste of Cap Malheureux
Many visitors recommend stopping at local eateries to sample authentic flavors. TikTok creators often highlight the combination of fresh seafood and local fruit cocktails as a must-try when in the north of the island.
For those looking for a quick bite or a refreshing drink, the proximity to Grand Baie means you're never far from a variety of cafes and bars. However, the unique charm of enjoying local delicacies with a view of the ocean in Cap Malheureux itself is an experience not to be missed.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit