Perched like a solitary sentinel in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, Coin de Mire, also known as Gunner’s Quoin, stands proudly just eight kilometers off the northern coast of Mauritius. Its distinctive profile, visible from afar, hints at a geological marvel shaped by ancient volcanic activity. Classified as a protected nature reserve, this island remains untouched by human intervention, offering sanctuary to a myriad of bird species amidst its rugged terrain and sparse vegetation.

Coin de Mire’s physical geography is a testament to its volcanic origins, with steep cliffs and layered lava formations carving its dramatic silhouette. French explorer Jean-Baptiste Bory de Saint-Vincent marveled at its unique structure, describing it as a mound from the east but revealing a different aspect from the north or south, showcasing its volcanic past. Despite its formidable appearance, ships navigate its waters cautiously, braving choppy seas and opposing currents to pass between Île-de-France and the islet.

Beyond its geological wonders, Coin de Mire harbors a rich ecosystem teeming with endemic flora and fauna. Endangered species like the blue latan tree and Cynanchum scopulosum find refuge amidst the harsh conditions, while the eradication of introduced pests in the 1990s has helped restore the island’s ecological balance. Today, Coin de Mire stands as a testament to the resilience of nature, a living testament to Mauritius’s rich biodiversity and storied history, where traces of Dutch settlers’ attempts at colonization still linger amid its untamed beauty.