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Albion Lighthouse

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Albion Lighthouse, also known as Pointe aux Caves, is a historic maritime landmark situated on the rugged western cliffs of Mauritius. Built in 1910, this iconic tower is easily recognizable by its bold red and white striped pattern. Standing atop high basalt cliffs, it provides a dramatic vantage point overlooking the vast Indian Ocean. The lighthouse remains fully operational to this day, with its powerful beam visible for up to 30 nautical miles, ensuring the safety of vessels navigating the western approach to the island. The surrounding area is famous for its stark, rocky terrain and crashing waves, offering some of the most scenic coastal views in Mauritius. It is a favored spot for locals and travelers alike to enjoy spectacular sunsets and explore the cliffside paths. As an unofficial symbol of the Albion region, the lighthouse represents a blend of colonial-era engineering and the raw natural beauty of the island's coastline.

Location: Mauritius
Nearby: Flic en Flac (5 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	28	27	27	25	24	23	23	23	24	25	26
Rain mm	128	116	122	67	41	29	26	21	24	29	29	44

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Albion Lighthouse, also known as Pointe aux Caves, is an active navigational aid and therefore usually not open to the public. You can still admire the red-and-white striped structure from the outside along the coastline.

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Typical hours

As the lighthouse is not open for interior visits, there are no conventional opening hours. The best time to visit is during daylight hours to appreciate the tower's colours and the coastal scenery.

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Photography

Photography of the lighthouse from the outside is unrestricted, especially striking with the turquoise sea as backdrop. A telephoto shot from the nearby rocky outcrop gives a great perspective.

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Time needed

An exterior-only visit takes about 15 to 20 minutes, including some photos. If you want to explore the surrounding coast or have a picnic, allow 30 to 45 minutes.

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Combine with

The lighthouse is located near Albion, where you can also visit the public beach or the rocky coastline. Afterwards, head to Flic-en-Flac beach, which is just a short drive away.

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Getting there

Albion Lighthouse is easily reachable by car, with a small parking area on the access road. From Port Louis, drive about 20 minutes southwest along the coastal B1 road.

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Insider tip

Combine the drive to the lighthouse with a swimming stop at the nearby Albion beach, which is less crowded. Sunset provides a spectacular colour backdrop for photos in front of the white tower.

Geography

Coordinates

-20.20350, 57.38250

Facts

Built in 1910 during the British colonial era.
Stands 30 meters tall on the edge of the cliffs.
Automated in the second half of the 20th century.
Visible from a distance of about 29 nautical miles.
Features a classic Fresnel lens system.
One of the few remaining active lighthouses on the island.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Bambous3 km · NWExplore →

Médine Sugar Mill5 km · NWExplore →

Flic en Flac5 km · WExplore →

Gros Cailloux6 km · NExplore →

Gros Cailloux Leisure Park6 km · NWExplore →

Pangia Kids Park6 km · NWExplore →

Tamarin7 km · WExplore →

Petite Rivière8 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

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

Sights in the town Albion Lighthouse (1)

Albion Public Beach

Sandy beach on the west coast of Mauritius, near the Albion lighthouse.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can one climb the lighthouse?

Usually only with prior permission.

Is the environment safe?

Yes, but caution is advised at the cliffs.

Best time of day for photos?

Shortly before sunset.

How to get there?

By car via Albion.

Is it a tourist attraction?

A popular photo spot.

Albion Lighthouse: where is it located?

Albion Lighthouse is located in Mauritius.

Albion Lighthouse: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

Albion Lighthouse: why is it worth visiting?

The Albion Lighthouse, also known as Pointe aux Caves, is a historic maritime landmark situated on the rugged western cliffs of Mauritius.

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