The scenic Kestrel Valley is primarily a hunting reserve for Javanese deer. The 950 hectares of forested mountain terrain also act as a reserve for many endemic bird species, including the Mauritius kestrel – one of the world's rarest birds of prey. A portion of the reserve has been blocked off for hikers – there are four marked trails (from 2km to 6km long) that wind through the park.
The estate was closed for renovations when we visited, including its well-regarded restaurant and thatched bungalows. Call ahead to see if they've reopened.
Note that the reserve used to be known as the Domaine du Chasseur – the park now called Domaine du Chasseur is near the town of Nouvelle France.
