The Bras D’eau or Coq de Bois Loop is the only designated trail that explores the second growth forest and black basalt of Bras D’eau National Park. You can walk to Bras D’eau Beach, see several small inland lakes, catch a glimpse of the endangered Mauritius Paradise Flycatcher, and then return on a different section of trail. The trail is relatively well shaded and easy to follow, and there is no significant elevation gain.
Route:
- Type of trail: Loop
- Start point: Bras D’eau Visitor Center
- Length: 3.5 miles round trip
- Duration: 2 hours
- Lowest point: 21ft
- Highest point: 79ft
- Total elevation gain: 514ft
The information that is available at the Visitor Center is relatively worthless. Most people begin walking from the Visitor Center, but it would also be possible to park at the beach and begin there. The trail begins across from the Visitor Center. Pass through the picnic area and begin following the trail marked “Nature Trail.” Follow the signs. You will pass a major junction within the first half hour – this is where the loop meets this trail again. Stay right. Follow the signs until you get to a significant dirt road with a sign that says “Public Beach.” Follow these signs until you get to the paved road. Turn left to go to the beach. Return on this route until you reach the significant dirt road. Do not turn on the same path that you took to arrive, instead take the trail opposite marked “Mare Chevrettes.” Follow this trail and the signs as you pass several marshes/ponds. This trail will bring you back to a significant dirt road. Cross it and continue on the trail through the woods. This is the return portion of the loop. Follow the signs until you reach the original trail. Return to the Visitor Center.