Vieux Grand Port (often referred to in English as Old Grand Port) was historically the first surviving settlement in Mauritius.

It was on this site that Mauritius was discovered in 1598 by the Dutch, who established the first village and fort there.

Also during the French rule in the early 18th century, Vieux Grand Port was for a while the most important town on the island, but later in 1722 the capital was moved to Port Louis.

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Monuments and museum

Today tourists visit several ruins and a small museum.

In total, a visit to the Vieux Grand Port will take less than an hour and is an ideal stop during a tour of the east coast.

• Frederick Hendrik Museum - an exhibition dedicated to the first Dutch settlers of the island
  • official website
• Ruins of the fort (part of the museum)
• Tower of the Dutch - a former well-preserved watchtower just off the main road near the centre (about a 5 minute walk from the museum)

You can also go to a small beach with nice views of the surrounding coastline.

How to get there

The main ring road around the island passes through Old Grand Port and you can park for free in the official car park right in front of the museum.

Bus line 18 also passes through the village 1-3 times an hour, connecting Mahébourg and Central Flacq.

What to see around

Discover all the places to see in Mauritius.