At Rivière-des-Anguilles, near Souillac in southern Mauritius, Exil Lodges offers ten individual cottages set in the heart of the indigenous Combo Forest. A destination designed for travellers seeking a nature-focused stay, away from the resort-lined coastline.

Why choose Exil Lodges

The property stands out for its location: the combination of endemic forest, waterfall and valley remains relatively uncommon on the island, where accommodation options concentrate heavily along the coasts. The lodge prioritizes forest immersion over beach access, with individually-spaced cottages that favour tranquillity. It's an ideal choice for a nature-centred stay in the south, or to break up a beach-focused itinerary with a few nights at elevation.

Atmosphere

The site is woven into the forest: no sprawling central building, no overlooking neighbours, cottages are scattered among the trees. Communal life centres around the restaurant and an outdoor fireplace, which becomes a gathering point in the evening after hikes or quad excursions. It's where travellers connect over a drink, creating the feel of a small refuge rather than a hotel.

The pace here is intentionally unhurried. The forest sets the rhythm: birdsong, filtered light, cool evenings.

The cottages

Exil Lodges features ten individual cottages, designed as cabins immersed in nature. Each accommodation is secluded, with its own terrace, and offers clear views across the treetops.

Interior design uses a restrained palette:

• warm brown and deep bronze tones
• concrete grey on wall surfaces
• wood accent furniture
• bedding in natural earth tones matching the room

Everything remains pared back, free of omnipresent televisions and beach-resort aesthetics. Children are welcome, though the format is particularly suited to couples.

Dining and activities

The restaurant

The lodge restaurant features a terrace facing the Bois Sec Forest, with views over the natural reserve that shelters the Léon Waterfall. The menu blends traditional Mauritian cuisine with European dishes, offering straightforward fare rather than fine dining.

Activities based at the lodge

• Hiking through indigenous forest on marked trails leading to nearby waterfalls where swimming is possible.
• Quad biking across wild southern landscapes: the classic route covers the Gris-Gris cliffs, the Roche Qui Pleure viewpoint, the village of Terracine, and Rochester Falls and Léon Falls.
• Leisurely walks around the immediate lodge grounds.

Quad packages vary by duration and group size; it's best to book your outing upon arrival to secure your preferred time slot.

Location

The lodge sits approximately 25 minutes by car from SSR Airport, making it a convenient choice for a first or final night on the island. Souillac, capital of the Savanne district, is close by: home to the Telfair Garden, La Roche Qui Pleure and the Domaine de Saint Aubin.

A car is essential for reaching the south's main attractions and exploring the surrounding area freely.

Around the area

The west and east coasts are accessible for a day trip:

• Flic-en-Flac, the west coast resort town, roughly thirty kilometres away
• Belle Mare, on the east coast, about 40 kilometres away

To combine forest and sea during a single stay, several addresses along the coast complement Exil Lodges well: Tamarina Golf & Spa Boutique on the west side, Héritage Le Telfair nearby in the south, or Paradis Beachcomber on the Morne Peninsula.

Plan your stay

Exil Lodges fits naturally into an itinerary combining wild southern landscapes, the west coast and the highlands. To craft a custom journey and balance nature with coastal time, explore our trips to Mauritius.