A holiday to the dream islands of
Mauritius is, in many ways, like encountering another world. You can choose between a romantic stroll on a beautiful sun-kissed white beach or take part in any watersport you fancy in the crystal-clear waters.
With 330 kilometres of coastline and white beaches nearly everywhere, the northern islands are particularly unmissable, although the whole island is a haven for romance and luxury alike.
We spend a lot of time critiquing, and in our view, the small cove of Pereybere and La Cuvette in Grand Baie is one of the best spots for swimming across the whole island.
Imagine a Mauritius scene, and we know you’re picturing dreamy beaches, but don’t forget the wealth of other selling points – from sight-seeing options and the rich culture to the many family-focused activities. Watersports are particularly popular, with world-class snorkelling available at Pereybere Beach and Long Beach, on the island of Île aux Cerfs. Mauritius is fenced by one of the largest unbroken barrier reefs in the world, so scuba diving opportunities rival almost anywhere in the world.
Mauritius also has impressive natural history scattered around the tropical island, including 800-metre high mountains and forests, which are home to some of the world’s rarest animals.
The island’s close links with a number of other countries can be seen throughout its culture – whether it be the Creole cooking, a nod to its proximity to Madagascar, or the Chateaux de Labourdonnais, in northern Mauritius, from when the island was under French rule. Other attractions include the dormant Trou aux Cerfs volcano, where you can photograph the seven-coloured earth, or a rather sweeter experience at the sugar museum, L’Aventure du Sucre.
And if you want to end your day with something a little livelier, why not hit the island’s best bars and clubs on Royal Road in Grand Baie? A picture perfect choice all round.
WINGED BOOTS WISDOM
There may be virtually every watersport to choose from, but golf lovers will be equally at home in Mauritius. You can marvel at the pristine courses, and spend time working on your handicap. And in May, look out for some of the world’s best talent, when the AfrAsia Mauritius Open golf tournament takes place.