Mauritius Notre-dame auxiliatrice de cap malhheureux

Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice de Cap Malheureux is a charming seaside chapel located at the northern tip of Mauritius. Instantly recognisable by its bold red roof and white walls, this Catholic church sits right by the turquoise lagoon, offering a postcard-perfect view. It’s a peaceful, photogenic spot that combines architecture, culture, and coastal beauty in one frame.

Go mid-morning or late afternoon for the best balance of light and colour – the red roof pops brilliantly against a blue sky. A wide-angle lens works best to include the whole church and the sea behind it. Don’t forget to explore the side angle for a shot that shows the bell tower and dramatic roof lines. Try including a bit of foreground – flowers, the lawn, or a visitor – to add some storytelling to your image. The light is generally strong here, so you can shoot handheld easily.

Located in Cap Malheureux village, about 10 minutes north of Grand Baie by car. It’s free to visit and open during the day, but be respectful as it’s still an active place of worship. There’s limited parking on-site and a small beach area just behind the church if you want to cool off or shoot coastal views too.