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Nature & Discovery

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Ruins of Balaclava

Discover One of Mauritius’ Most Remarkable Heritage Sites

Located within the 25-hectare Maritim Estate along the shores of Turtle Bay, the Ruins of Balaclava are among the most important historical landmarks in Mauritius.

Dating back to the 18th century, this national monument bears witness to the island’s rich colonial past and the strategic role Turtle Bay once played in the development of Mauritius. Today, the site offers visitors a unique opportunity to discover an exceptional blend of history, nature and heritage within one of the island’s most beautiful settings.

A Journey Through History

The history of Balaclava dates back to the Dutch period, when Turtle Bay was known as Schildpad Baai, meaning “Turtle Bay”. During the French administration under Governor Mahé de La Bourdonnais, the area became an important industrial and strategic centre.

The site housed an iron foundry, gunpowder factory, naval arsenal and flour mill, supplying materials and equipment that contributed to the development of Port Louis and its harbour. The remains visible today stand as a testament to this remarkable period in Mauritian history and form one of the island’s most significant heritage sites.

Nature Meets Heritage

Beyond the historic ruins, the estate reveals a different side of Mauritius. Ancient stone walls stand amongst tropical gardens, towering banyan trees and the peaceful surroundings of Turtle Bay. The gentle flow of the Citron River, its waterfalls and the rich biodiversity of the estate create a unique setting where history and nature coexist in perfect harmony.

As you explore the grounds, you may encounter giant tortoises, tropical birds and a remarkable collection of endemic and exotic plant species that contribute to the unique character of the estate.

In December 2012, the Maritim Estate was proudly awarded the title of “Most Beautiful Garden in Mauritius”, recognising the exceptional quality, biodiversity and maintenance of its tropical landscape.

Explore the Estate

Whether you are passionate about history, nature, photography or simply looking for a peaceful stroll, the Ruins of Balaclava offer a unique experience beyond the beach.

The estate invites guests to discover a fascinating chapter of Mauritian history while enjoying one of the island’s most beautiful natural environments.

A visit to the Ruins of Balaclava is a journey through time, culture and nature — an unforgettable experience at the heart of Turtle Bay.


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    Accommodation Variety & Excellence

    Spacious, stylish, and serene — our rooms and villas redefine island living. Experience comfort crafted with elegance and care.

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    Expérience plage & lagon

    Une plage de 800 m unique dans le Nord-Ouest — un lagon calme et adapté aux familles, loin des plages bondées, avec de l’ombre naturelle et des eaux peu profondes idéales pour profiter des plaisirs nautiques. La plongée en apnée autour des récifs coralliens du parc marin protégé de la Baie aux Tortues y est exceptionnelle. Découvrez l’expérience Beach Suite la plus exclusive de l’île.

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    Lifestyle Resort with Casual Luxury

    Privacy and space define our tropical haven — where refined comfort meets a relaxed island spirit. Enjoy the freedom of a laid-back yet sophisticated atmosphere, enhanced by tailor-made service and genuine Mauritian warmth.

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    Wedding - Honeymoon or Proposal

    An estate with a pure privacy in nature - the perfect setting for an exotic wedding romantic honeymoon, or the beginning of a new life for two. Choose from numerous potential venues, from a wedding pavilion at the beach, the jetty jutting out into the Indian Ocean, to the ancient banyan trees of the resort, the waterfalls, or the spectacular Historical Ruins of Balaclava. Ask for our unique offers.

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    25ha Unique Nature Estate

    Set within 25 hectares of lush tropical beauty, the Maritim Estate is a world of its own. From rivers and waterfalls to the historic Ruins of Balaclava, every corner invites discovery and serenity in harmony with nature.

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    Tropical Flower Spa

    Immerse yourself in a sanctuary of tropical serenity inspired by the island’s natural beauty. Experience rejuvenating rituals and signature treatments infused with the essence of Mauritian flowers.

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    Maritim Upscale All-Inclusive

    Decades of experience in all-inclusive resort offerings bundled in the famous “Maritim All-Inclusive Experience” with unique Dine-Around, setting new standards for upscale all-inclusive packages.

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    Active Family Retreat

    From thrilling water sports and horse riding to tennis, mini-golf and fun-filled family activities — Maritim offers the perfect setting to share active moments and create lasting memories together.

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    35 ans d'expérience

    Depuis plus de 35 ans, nous faisons rayonner à Maurice notre passion du service, fruit d’un équilibre unique entre la rigueur allemande et la chaleur de l’hospitalité mauricienne.

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    Un éventail d’hébergements d’exception

    Spacieuses, élégantes et sereines, nos chambres et villas redéfinissent la vie insulaire. Découvrez un confort conçu avec élégance et soin.

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    Beach & Bay Experience

    A beach of 800m length like no other in the Northwest – family-friendly calm lagoon far away from crowded beaches, natural shade area, low slope for easy water pleasures paired with excellent snorkelling around the coral reefs of the protected marine lagoon park Turtle Bay. Discover the island’s leading Beach Suite experience.

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    Le luxe décontracté d’un resort lifestyle

    Un cadre intime et spacieux pour des vacances tout en douceur, sublimé par une atmosphère tropicale où l’art de vivre à la mauricienne se déploie dans toute son authenticité. Bénéficiez d’un service personnalisé, porté par une équipe internationale venue de plus de 10 pays, avec majordome sur demande

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    Mariage - Lune de miel ou demande en mariage

    Un domaine au cœur d’une nature préservée offrant une intimité totale — le cadre parfait pour un mariage exotique, une lune de miel romantique ou le début d’une nouvelle vie à deux. Choisissez parmi de nombreux lieux magiques : un pavillon de mariage sur la plage, un ponton s’avançant dans l’océan Indien, les majestueux banians du resort, des cascades ou encore les spectaculaires ruines historiques de Balaclava. Demandez nos offres exclusives.

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    Un domaine unique au cœur de 25 hectares de nature

    L’espace est un luxe dans notre vaste domaine qui s’étend sur plus de 1,5 km de plage et 25 hectares comprenant 2 rivières, des cascades, un centre équestre, les ruines historiques de Balaclava et un parcours de golf familial 9 trous au cœur d’une nature préservée — explorez notre domaine accompagné de notre guide nature.

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    Un havre de bien-être floral & tropical

    Laissez la nature mauricienne vous offrir ses bienfaits dans notre authentique Spa, où les fleurs tropicales se mêlent aux rituels de bien-être locaux et aux expertises internationales. Le « Maritim Tropical Flower Spa » vous invite à un voyage sensoriel unique, entre douceur, vitalité et harmonie.

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    Le célèbre “Forfait Signature Maritim Tout Inclus”

    Des décennies d’expérience dans l’hôtellerie et dans la formule tout compris réunies dans le fameux “Maritim Upscale All-Inclusive Experience” avec son concept unique de Dine-Around, établissant de nouveaux standards pour les forfaits haut de gamme tout compris.

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    Culinary Diversity

    Embark on a culinary journey across 12 restaurants and bars — from fine dining at Château Mon Désir to beachside freshness at La Marée. A world of flavours, crafted to delight every palate.

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    Diversité culinaire – Expérience unique de “Dine-Around”

    Embarquez pour un voyage culinaire à travers 12 restaurants et bars, du raffinement gastronomique du Château Mon Désir à la fraîcheur en bord de mer de La Marée. Un univers de saveurs, conçu pour ravir tous les palais.

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    Expériences familiales actives

    Des sports nautiques palpitants à l'équitation, en passant par le tennis, le minigolf et les activités familiales divertissantes, Maritim offre le cadre idéal pour partager des moments actifs et créer ensemble des souvenirs inoubliables.

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    35 Years of Experience

    Since 1990, Maritim has been an integral part of Mauritius’ hospitality landscape — a symbol of timeless elegance and genuine service. Our story is one of passion, precision, and people: where German excellence meets the warmth of Mauritian hospitality.

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