Rhumerie de Chamarel - Drone shot of waves on a beach
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Rhumerie de Chamarel

4.5
·4k reviews·Chamarel, Mauritius

Discover the art of Mauritian rum-making at Rhumerie de Chamarel, from sugarcane to tasting. Enjoy beautiful grounds and delicious dining.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

July - December mornings

See sugarcane processing live

CrowdMedium
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Rhumerie de Chamarel - Drone shot of waves on a beach

Rhumerie de Chamarel

Best Time

July - December mornings

See sugarcane processing live

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the art of Mauritian rum-making at Rhumerie de Chamarel, from sugarcane to tasting. Enjoy beautiful grounds and delicious dining.

4.5
(4k reviews)

"A must-visit for rum enthusiasts and a beautiful stop in the Chamarel region!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Designated Driver Needed

The rum tasting includes 11 shots; consider a designated driver or non-alcoholic option.

⏳ Allow an Hour for Tour

The tour itself is about 30 minutes, plus time for tasting and browsing.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rum Tasting Experience

Rum Tasting Experience

Tasting Bar

Sample eleven unique agricultural rums, a signature experience after the distillery tour.

Instagram
Sugarcane Processing Tour

Sugarcane Processing Tour

Distillery

Learn about the fascinating journey from sugarcane to fine rum, even if shown via video outside production season.

Reddit
L'Alchimiste Restaurant

L'Alchimiste Restaurant

Restaurant

Savor delicious Mauritian cuisine in a pleasant ambiance after your tour.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

Consider visiting during the sugarcane processing season (July to December) for a more complete view of rum production. Outside this window, you'll see the process explained via video. Book tours in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment and ensure a spot for the rum tasting. Reddit

Understanding the Rum Tasting

The rum tasting is a highlight, offering eleven small shots of different rums. While fun, some find it overwhelming or wish for an option without tasting for drivers or non-drinkers. Plan accordingly if you're driving or prefer not to drink. Reddit

Best Times

When
July - December mornings
Why
See sugarcane processing live
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays, after lunch
Why
Fewer tour groups
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

On valide ? #mauritius #ilemaurice #maurice #paradise #voyage #travel #pourtoi #mauritiustiktok #oceanindien #traveltiktok #rhum #chamarel
@qb.pixels
415 likes • 10.8K views

🚗 Designated Driver Needed

The rum tasting includes 11 shots; consider a designated driver or non-alcoholic option. Reddit

⏳ Allow an Hour for Tour

The tour itself is about 30 minutes, plus time for tasting and browsing. Reddit

The Delicious Rum Tasting Session @La Rhumerie de Chamarel 🥃 . One of the highlights of the distillery’s guided tour is definitely the Rum tasting. At the end of the tour, unique rum tastings are offered where one can try the selection of the agricultural Rums produced by the distillery. As opposed to the traditional rum produced by the distillation of molasses, the agricultural rum is obtained by...
surbhi_urbanutopia
761 likes • 15.2K views
Visitez la somptueuse rhumerie de Chamarel pour découvrir l’histoire de la culture de la canne à sucre sur l’île, admirer le savoir-faire mauricien et déguster leurs créations à base de rhum🍹Ne manquez pas de déjeuner dans son restaurant L’Alchimiste qui régalera vos papilles ! 📸 @travelwithsanne_ / @baharakinci / @love_urbanutopia . . #ilemaurice #mauritius #picoftheday #travel #relax #sea #blue...
mon_ilemaurice
1.4K likes • 30.9K views

🍽️ Lunch Reservations Recommended

The restaurant is popular; booking ahead ensures a table, especially during peak times. Instagram

📸 Beautiful Photo Ops

The distillery grounds and surrounding landscape offer stunning photo opportunities. TikTok

I’m Nick Hamman and I’m on the hunt for the best steak in Mauritius, and I may have just found it at Rhumerie de Chamarel, a distillery tucked away in the village of Chamarel in the Rivière Noire District. Nearby you’ll find the Seven Coloured Earth, a surreal volcanic landscape where dunes shimmer in seven distinct shades, and giant Aldabra tortoises introduced in the 19th century after Darwin st...
nickhammangram
409 likes • 24.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Designated Driver Needed

The rum tasting includes 11 shots; consider a designated driver or non-alcoholic option. Reddit

⏳ Allow an Hour for Tour

The tour itself is about 30 minutes, plus time for tasting and browsing. Reddit

🍽️ Lunch Reservations Recommended

The restaurant is popular; booking ahead ensures a table, especially during peak times. Instagram

📸 Beautiful Photo Ops

The distillery grounds and surrounding landscape offer stunning photo opportunities. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally find Rhumerie de Chamarel to be a beautiful and interesting place, with the rum tasting being a highlight for many. While the tour is informative, some feel it's a bit rushed or that the tasting experience could be improved for non-drinkers. The on-site restaurant receives positive remarks for its food and ambiance. Reddit+1

"Great tour about the process of making rum from sugar cane - the eleven shots of different rums at the end certainly add to the experience. Disappointed with the duck main."

B PD

"A mix of a nice place to visit and a tourist trap, and somewhat overpriced.
The grounds are beautiful and well looked after. But the tour is a bit fast, and the experience of enjoying 11 small shots of rum sounds better than it is. There's not even an adult price entry without the run tasting, which is a bit disrespectful for drivers or non-drinkers."

AlexesKraft

"Interesting tour with degustation of rhums. But we were a little bit disappointed because we didn’t see sugar cane processing. 6 months is maintenance. Production is from July to December. We saw it just on TV.
We stayed for lunch and food was so delicious. Ambience very pleasant and staff friendly.
Recommend if you are on Mauritius."

Radka Nováková

What People Like

Interesting rum tour
Unique rum tasting
Beautiful grounds

What People Dislike

Tour can feel rushed
Overpriced for some
No non-drinker option

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Flic en Flac, you can drive to Rhumerie de Chamarel, which takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour. Taxis are also available, though they can be more expensive. Consider renting a car for flexibility to explore other nearby attractions like the Seven Coloured Earth. TikTok

Public transport to Chamarel can be infrequent and time-consuming. It's generally recommended to hire a taxi, rent a car, or join an organized tour for easier access to Rhumerie de Chamarel and other attractions in the area. Reddit

The roads leading to Chamarel are generally well-maintained, but can be winding and narrow in some sections. Drive cautiously, especially if you are not accustomed to Mauritian roads. TikTok

Absolutely! Rhumerie de Chamarel is conveniently located near other popular sites like the Seven Coloured Earth, Chamarel Waterfall, and the Ebony Forest. Many visitors create a day trip itinerary to see multiple attractions in the south. Instagram

Yes, ample parking is available on-site at Rhumerie de Chamarel, making it easy for visitors arriving by car. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission typically includes a guided tour and a rum tasting. Prices can vary, so it's best to check their official website or inquire directly for the most current pricing. Reddit

While walk-ins are often accepted, booking your tour in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred time slot and guarantee a spot for the rum tasting. Reddit

Currently, the standard ticket includes the tour and tasting. Some visitors have expressed a desire for an option without the rum tasting for drivers or non-drinkers, but this is not widely available. Reddit

Rhumerie de Chamarel is generally open daily, but hours can vary. It's advisable to check their official website for the most up-to-date opening and closing times before your visit. TikTok

Yes, you must be of legal drinking age (typically 18 years or older) to participate in the rum tasting. Identification may be required. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The guided tour of the distillery typically lasts around 30 minutes, followed by the rum tasting session. Reddit

The tour explains the process of making rum from sugarcane, from cultivation to distillation. You'll learn about their methods and see the facilities. Outside the production season, the process is explained via video. Reddit

The tasting session usually features eleven different varieties of their agricultural rums, allowing you to sample their diverse range. Instagram

The primary focus of the tasting is rum. While water is available, specific non-alcoholic tasting alternatives are not typically offered as part of the standard package. Reddit

Yes, there is a shop where you can purchase their range of rums, liqueurs, and other related products to take home. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Rhumerie de Chamarel features L'Alchimiste, a highly-rated restaurant offering delicious Mauritian cuisine in a pleasant setting. Instagram

L'Alchimiste serves a variety of dishes, with many visitors praising their delicious food, including some who enjoyed steak and duck. It's a great place to experience local flavors. InstagramReddit

It is highly recommended to make a reservation for L'Alchimiste, especially if you plan to visit during peak hours or weekends, to ensure you get a table. Instagram

While not explicitly stated, it's generally possible to dine at L'Alchimiste without participating in the distillery tour, though the restaurant is part of the overall Rhumerie experience. Reddit

Some visitors have noted that the experience can be somewhat overpriced, which may extend to the dining options. It's advisable to check menus or reviews for current pricing expectations. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally permitted throughout the distillery grounds and during the tour. Capture the beautiful scenery and the rum-making process. TikTok

The lush gardens, the distillery buildings, and the tasting area all offer great photo opportunities. The surrounding landscape also provides a picturesque backdrop. TikTok

You can certainly take photos during the rum tasting, but be mindful of other guests and enjoy the experience of sampling the rums. Instagram

Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's best to check with the management or consult local drone laws before flying a drone on the property. TikTok

Natural daylight is abundant in the outdoor areas. Inside the distillery, lighting conditions may vary, so be prepared for different light levels. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the rum tasting is geared towards adults, families can still enjoy the beautiful grounds and learn about sugarcane cultivation at Rhumerie de Chamarel. The tour itself is informative and visually engaging. Consider visiting the nearby Seven Coloured Earth and Chamarel Waterfall, which are often more directly appealing to children. Instagram

For lunch, L'Alchimiste restaurant offers a pleasant dining experience. While the menu might lean towards adult palates, there are usually options that can satisfy younger eaters. The overall atmosphere of the Rhumerie is relaxed, making it a comfortable stop for families exploring the Chamarel region. Instagram

🚗 Drivers & Non-Drinkers

If you're driving or prefer not to consume alcohol, the standard tour package at Rhumerie de Chamarel still offers significant value. You'll gain insight into the fascinating rum-making process and can enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Reddit

While the eleven-shot rum tasting is a major draw for many, it's important to note that there isn't a separate ticket option for those who wish to skip the tasting. You can, however, opt out of drinking the samples. The on-site restaurant, L'Alchimiste, is also a great option for a meal without participating in the tasting. Reddit

✈️ Day-Trippers from Coastal Resorts

Rhumerie de Chamarel is an excellent addition to a day trip exploring the southern part of Mauritius. It's often visited in conjunction with the Seven Coloured Earth and Chamarel Waterfall, making for a well-rounded itinerary. Instagram

Allocate about an hour for the distillery tour and tasting. Afterwards, you can enjoy lunch at L'Alchimiste or continue your exploration of the region. Renting a car or hiring a taxi for the day is the most efficient way to combine these sights. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Mauritian Rum Making

Rhumerie de Chamarel is renowned for its agricultural rum, a style distinct from industrial rum. This means the rum is made directly from fresh sugarcane juice, rather than molasses. This process imparts a unique character and aroma to the spirit. The distillery emphasizes traditional methods combined with modern technology to ensure quality and consistency. Reddit

Visitors can learn about the entire production cycle during the guided tour. This includes the milling of sugarcane, fermentation, and distillation. While the actual sugarcane processing might only be visible during the harvest season (July to December), the tour effectively explains the steps involved, often using visual aids for clarity. Reddit

The rum tasting is a highlight, where guests can sample up to eleven different rums. This offers a fantastic opportunity to appreciate the nuances and complexities of their product range, from lighter white rums to aged varieties. It's a sensory journey that complements the educational aspect of the tour. TikTokInstagram

Culinary Delights at L'Alchimiste

Beyond its rum production, Rhumerie de Chamarel is also celebrated for its restaurant, L'Alchimiste. This dining establishment offers a delightful culinary experience, allowing visitors to savor authentic Mauritian flavors in a picturesque setting. The ambiance is often described as pleasant and relaxing, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a tour. Instagram

The menu at L'Alchimiste features a range of dishes, with many guests highlighting the quality and taste of the food. While some reviews mention specific dishes like duck or steak positively, the overall consensus points to a satisfying gastronomic experience. It's a chance to complement your rum journey with delicious local cuisine. InstagramReddit

Given its popularity, it's wise to make reservations for L'Alchimiste, especially during busy periods. This ensures you can enjoy a meal without any hassle and fully immerse yourself in the Rhumerie's offerings. Instagram

Exploring the Chamarel Region

Rhumerie de Chamarel is situated in the scenic village of Chamarel, a region rich with natural wonders. It's conveniently located near other must-see attractions, making it perfect for a day trip. The Seven Coloured Earth Geopark is a world-renowned natural spectacle where sand dunes display distinct shades of red, brown, yellow, and purple. Instagram

Nearby, the Chamarel Waterfall cascades impressively from a height of about 100 meters, offering breathtaking views. For nature enthusiasts, the Ebony Forest Reserve provides walking trails through indigenous flora and fauna, with opportunities for birdwatching and stunning panoramic views from its canopy walkway. Instagram

Visiting Rhumerie de Chamarel can easily be combined with these other attractions, allowing you to experience the diverse beauty and unique geological features of Mauritius's southern interior. Plan your route to maximize your exploration of this captivating area. Instagram

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