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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
See sugarcane processing live
Rhumerie de Chamarel
Best Time
See sugarcane processing live

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.
"A must-visit for rum enthusiasts and a beautiful stop in the Chamarel region!"
🚗 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rum Tasting Experience
Tasting Bar
Sample eleven unique agricultural rums, a signature experience after the distillery tour.

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

L'Alchimiste Restaurant
Restaurant
Savor delicious Mauritian cuisine in a pleasant ambiance after your tour.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Understanding the Rum Tasting
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 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.
🍽️ Lunch Reservations Recommended
The restaurant is popular; booking ahead ensures a table, especially during peak times.
📸 Beautiful Photo Ops
The distillery grounds and surrounding landscape offer stunning photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 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.
🍽️ Lunch Reservations Recommended
The restaurant is popular; booking ahead ensures a table, especially during peak times.
📸 Beautiful Photo Ops
The distillery grounds and surrounding landscape offer stunning photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
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.
"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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
Yes, ample parking is available on-site at Rhumerie de Chamarel, making it easy for visitors arriving by car.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
Yes, you must be of legal drinking age (typically 18 years or older) to participate in the rum tasting. Identification may be required.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The guided tour of the distillery typically lasts around 30 minutes, followed by the rum tasting session.
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.
The tasting session usually features eleven different varieties of their agricultural rums, allowing you to sample their diverse range.
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.
Yes, there is a shop where you can purchase their range of rums, liqueurs, and other related products to take home.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Rhumerie de Chamarel features L'Alchimiste, a highly-rated restaurant offering delicious Mauritian cuisine in a pleasant setting.
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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally permitted throughout the distillery grounds and during the tour. Capture the beautiful scenery and the rum-making process.
The lush gardens, the distillery buildings, and the tasting area all offer great photo opportunities. The surrounding landscape also provides a picturesque backdrop.
You can certainly take photos during the rum tasting, but be mindful of other guests and enjoy the experience of sampling the rums.
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.
Natural daylight is abundant in the outdoor areas. Inside the distillery, lighting conditions may vary, so be prepared for different light levels.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🚗 Drivers & Non-Drinkers
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.
✈️ Day-Trippers from Coastal Resorts
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Mauritian Rum Making
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.
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.
Culinary Delights at L'Alchimiste
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.
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.
Exploring the Chamarel Region
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.
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.
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