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Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice

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Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice (Mauritius)

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The chapel of Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice in Cap Malheureux is arguably the most iconic and photographed church in Mauritius. Famous for its bustling red-tiled roof, the structure creates a memorable visual contrast against the emerald lagoon and the bright blue sky. The church is situated at the northernmost tip of Mauritius, a location of historical significance where the British forces first landed in 1810 to seize the island from the French. The interior is simple and peaceful, featuring a beautifully carved wooden altar and a shell-shaped holy water font. From the rocky shoreline behind the chapel, visitors are treated to a magnificent view of the Coin de Mire (Gunner's Quoin) island rising steeply from the sea. Its romantic setting and serene atmosphere make it a premier location for weddings and a favorite stop for travelers exploring the northern coast, offering a quintessential Mauritian landscape that feels both spiritual and timeless.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272827272524232323242526
Rain mm128116122674129262124292944

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The chapel Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice in Cap Malheureux is open to visitors, typically during daylight hours. As a place of worship, respectful behaviour is expected; entry is usually free.
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Typical hours
Churches in Mauritius are usually open daily from early morning until evening, often with a lunch break. On Sundays and public holidays, access may be limited during services.
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Photography
Exterior shots of the famous red roof are possible at any time from the street. Inside, photography is usually allowed but without flash and not during services.
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Time needed
The chapel visit itself takes about 15 to 20 minutes, including photography and a moment of quiet. Together with a walk on the nearby beach, allow 45 minutes to 1 hour.
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Combine with
The chapel is right by the sea in Cap Malheureux, so a beach visit makes an excellent combination. A few kilometres south are the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden and Château de Mon Plaisir.
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Getting there
Cap Malheureux is in northern Mauritius, about 20 minutes by car from Port Louis. Public buses run from Port Louis to the coast; the terminus is just a few minutes' walk from the chapel.
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Insider tip
Come around 4:00 PM when the sunlight makes the red roof glow intensely. Stay until sunset for remarkable photos with the sea in the background.

Geography

Coordinates
-19.98820, 57.62250

Facts

  • The chapel was officially consecrated in the year 1938
  • Famous for its vibrant red-painted gabled roof
  • Located at the northernmost tip of Mauritius island
  • The name translates to 'Our Lady, Help of Christians'
  • The holy water font is made from a giant clam shell
  • Built near the site of the British invasion of 1810

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Cap MalheureuxCap Malheureux<1 km · SEExplore →
Petit RaffrayPetit Raffray2 km · WExplore →
Coin de Mire (Gunner's Quoin)Coin de Mire (Gunner's Quoin)3 km · EExplore →
GoodlandsGoodlands4 km · NWExplore →
PereyberePereybere4 km · SExplore →
Grand BaieGrand Baie5 km · SExplore →
Grand GaubeGrand Gaube5 km · NExplore →
MapouMapou5 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice (6)

Chapel Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice

Chapel in Cap Malheureux, famous for its red roof and seaside location.

Kap Malheureux

Settlement at the northern tip of Mauritius, with views of offshore islands.

Anse La Raie Beach

Sandy beach on the north coast, calm and suitable for swimming.

Union Triget

Beach section near Cap Malheureux, often less crowded.

Anse la Raie Public Beach

Public beach area at Anse La Raie, with access to the sea.

Public Beach 10.1.2023

Beach on the north coast, publicly accessible, with sand and shallow water.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is special about this church?
It is famous for its red roof and scenic location right by the sea.
Can it be visited inside?
Yes, outside of church services, it is open to visitors.
Is it a popular photo spot?
Yes, it is one of the most photographed buildings in Mauritius.
Is there an entry fee?
No, visiting is free.
What is the best way to get there?
Best by rental car or taxi, as it is located off the beaten path.
Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice: where is it located?
Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice is located in Mauritius.
Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice: what is there to see?
Highlights include Chapel Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice, Kap Malheureux, Anse La Raie Beach.
Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice: why is it worth visiting?
The chapel of Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice in Cap Malheureux is arguably the most iconic and photographed church in Mauritius.
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Nearby cities

Port Louis — Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice (Mauritius)
Port Louis
Port Louis is the capital of Mauritius and the country's economic hub.
Vacoas-Phoenix — Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice (Mauritius)
Vacoas-Phoenix
Vacoas-Phoenix is one of the most populous municipalities in Mauritius.
Vacoas — Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice (Mauritius)
Vacoas
Vacoas is located in the heart of the island and is known for its cooler temperatures.
Bassin — Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice (Mauritius)
Bassin
Bassin is a residential village in the Plaines Wilhems district, near Quatre Bornes.
Beau Bassin — Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice (Mauritius)
Beau Bassin
Beau Bassin is part of the larger Beau Bassin-Rose Hill urban area in the center of the island.
Curepipe — Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice (Mauritius)
Curepipe
Curepipe, also known as 'La Ville Lumière', is the highest town in Mauritius.
Triolet — Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice (Mauritius)
Triolet
Triolet is one of the longest villages on the island, located in northern Mauritius.
Goodlands — Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice (Mauritius)
Goodlands
Goodlands is a bustling village in northern Mauritius that serves as an important economic hub for the region.
Bel Air Rivière Sèche — Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice (Mauritius)
Bel Air Rivière Sèche
Bel Air Rivière Sèche is a large village in eastern Mauritius.
Bambous — Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice (Mauritius)
Bambous
Bambous is the administrative capital of the Rivière Noire district in the west.
🗺️
Centre de Flacq
Centre de Flacq is the main village of the Flacq district in eastern Mauritius.
Mahébourg — Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice (Mauritius)
Mahébourg
Mahébourg is a historic coastal town in the southeast of the island.
Olivier — Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice (Mauritius)
Olivier
Olivier is a small village in the Grand Port district.
Saint Pierre — Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice (Mauritius)
Saint Pierre
Saint Pierre is a centrally located village in the Moka district.
Le Hochet — Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice (Mauritius)
Le Hochet
Le Hochet is a densely populated village in the Pamplemousses district, just north of the capital Port Louis.

History & landmarks

Curepipe Town Hall — Notre Dame de l'Auxiliatrice (Mauritius)
Curepipe Town Hall
A fine example of colonial wooden architecture in the center of Curepipe.