This Indian Ocean gem is a favourite for honeymooners and A-listers from all over the world and is justly famous for its pristine coral reefs and sparkling white beaches. But that's not all there is to Mauritius.
Indian, African, French and British influences mean that the island's architecture, history, culture and cuisine are as interesting and diverse as its population. Add nature reserves, stunning scenery and wildlife galore to the mix and you have a varied holiday destination which is perfect for a bit of winter sunshine.
Indian, African, French and British influences mean that the island's architecture, history, culture and cuisine are as interesting and diverse as its population. Add nature reserves, stunning scenery and wildlife galore to the mix and you have a varied holiday destination which is perfect for a bit of winter sunshine.
Beaches in Mauritius
The north-west coast is where you'll find most resorts including Grande Baie and the smaller, quieter and cheaper Pereybere. Grand Baie is one of the best areas for sailing, windsurfing and water skiing. Pereybere, a small cove half-way between Grand Baie and Cap Malheureux is one of the best sunbathing spots on the island. If you want seclusion, try the Baie de L'Arsenal and if you prefer a chic beach retreat, head to Troux aux Biches.
On the east coast, the village of Poudre d'Or not only has the golden powder beaches of its name, but is also rich in history and character. To the west, laid-back Tamarin is the surfers' hang-out, whilst the Grande Riviere Noire is the centre for deep-sea fishing. Flic en Flac and Belle Mare have the best swimming on the island.
The north-west coast is where you'll find most resorts including Grande Baie and the smaller, quieter and cheaper Pereybere. Grand Baie is one of the best areas for sailing, windsurfing and water skiing. Pereybere, a small cove half-way between Grand Baie and Cap Malheureux is one of the best sunbathing spots on the island. If you want seclusion, try the Baie de L'Arsenal and if you prefer a chic beach retreat, head to Troux aux Biches.
On the east coast, the village of Poudre d'Or not only has the golden powder beaches of its name, but is also rich in history and character. To the west, laid-back Tamarin is the surfers' hang-out, whilst the Grande Riviere Noire is the centre for deep-sea fishing. Flic en Flac and Belle Mare have the best swimming on the island.
Sightseeing in Mauritius
In the capital, Port Louis, head up to Fort Adelaide for some wonderful views and to get your bearings. The city is also home to the interesting Natural History Museum, where you can see the last dodo – these days it's stuffed of course. Elsewhere, the town of Goodlands is worth visiting to see the Historic Marine boatbuilding factory and Troux d'Eau Douce is a village that has lots of character and charm, with steps leading down to the sea and the spring-fed sea pool that gives the town its name. The southern town of Mahebourg has a fascinating Naval Museum.
Watch out for some of the island's spectacular festivals which are always colourful and sometimes alarming. Not for the faint-hearted are the Cavadee festivals (Hindu), where men put skewers through their cheeks before the procession of a flower-decorated wooden arch (cavadee). A lot more fun is Holi, held every February/March, as it involves lots of coloured powder and liquid being thrown – don't forget to duck.
In the capital, Port Louis, head up to Fort Adelaide for some wonderful views and to get your bearings. The city is also home to the interesting Natural History Museum, where you can see the last dodo – these days it's stuffed of course. Elsewhere, the town of Goodlands is worth visiting to see the Historic Marine boatbuilding factory and Troux d'Eau Douce is a village that has lots of character and charm, with steps leading down to the sea and the spring-fed sea pool that gives the town its name. The southern town of Mahebourg has a fascinating Naval Museum.
Watch out for some of the island's spectacular festivals which are always colourful and sometimes alarming. Not for the faint-hearted are the Cavadee festivals (Hindu), where men put skewers through their cheeks before the procession of a flower-decorated wooden arch (cavadee). A lot more fun is Holi, held every February/March, as it involves lots of coloured powder and liquid being thrown – don't forget to duck.
Family activities in Mauritius
The beaches should keep your children occupied and some of the bigger resort hotels have kids clubs where they can join other youngsters for a few hours. The Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolan Botanical Gardens in Pamplemousses is a wonderful place to see exotic flora.
If your family enjoy wildlife then look out for the odd mongoose and Java deer by the roadside. Otherwise, head to the huge Riviere Noire Gorge national park to catch sight of wild pigs and macaque monkeys. There's a viewpoint from which to admire the gorge itself and it's worth the trip as the countryside is stunning. In the west there are more animals at Casela Bird Park, where one of the tortoises is rumoured to be 150 years old and in the south, the Domaine du Chasseur gives you a taste of tropical forest, as does the nearby La Vanille Crocodile Park.
The beaches should keep your children occupied and some of the bigger resort hotels have kids clubs where they can join other youngsters for a few hours. The Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolan Botanical Gardens in Pamplemousses is a wonderful place to see exotic flora.
If your family enjoy wildlife then look out for the odd mongoose and Java deer by the roadside. Otherwise, head to the huge Riviere Noire Gorge national park to catch sight of wild pigs and macaque monkeys. There's a viewpoint from which to admire the gorge itself and it's worth the trip as the countryside is stunning. In the west there are more animals at Casela Bird Park, where one of the tortoises is rumoured to be 150 years old and in the south, the Domaine du Chasseur gives you a taste of tropical forest, as does the nearby La Vanille Crocodile Park.
Day trips in Mauritius
In the centre of the island, visit Moka town and its surrounding area, home to waterfalls, forests and mountains. The lovely Tamarind falls are definitely worth a visit, as is the Troux aux Cerfs crater with its incredible views over the whole island.
A popular way to spend a day or half day is aboard a catamaran or yacht. Lots of companies organize tours and most include a round trip off the coast with stops for snorkeling and swimming, some dolphin-watching (if possible), lunch and as many drinks as you want. The unlimited drinks can certainly liven things up a bit and it's a good excursion for those wanting a bit more action after days spent on a quiet beach.
In the centre of the island, visit Moka town and its surrounding area, home to waterfalls, forests and mountains. The lovely Tamarind falls are definitely worth a visit, as is the Troux aux Cerfs crater with its incredible views over the whole island.
A popular way to spend a day or half day is aboard a catamaran or yacht. Lots of companies organize tours and most include a round trip off the coast with stops for snorkeling and swimming, some dolphin-watching (if possible), lunch and as many drinks as you want. The unlimited drinks can certainly liven things up a bit and it's a good excursion for those wanting a bit more action after days spent on a quiet beach.
Eating out in Mauritius
The top luxury hotels cater for all tastes and Mauritian food itself is something of a mixed bag thanks to the island's varied influences. Creole cuisine is a kind of spiced-up French cuisine, often featuring the delicious seafood, which has of course been caught that day. If you're out and about, try street food such as samosas, curried rolls and rotis. Make sure they're piping hot to avoid any tummy trouble.
When it comes to something to wash it all down with, rum is very popular, with Green Island, Powers No1 and Anytime the best brands. South African wines adorn many menus and the locally brewed pilsner lager is called Phoenix. Yoghurt drinks are everywhere too, so try a lassi or an alouda.
The top luxury hotels cater for all tastes and Mauritian food itself is something of a mixed bag thanks to the island's varied influences. Creole cuisine is a kind of spiced-up French cuisine, often featuring the delicious seafood, which has of course been caught that day. If you're out and about, try street food such as samosas, curried rolls and rotis. Make sure they're piping hot to avoid any tummy trouble.
When it comes to something to wash it all down with, rum is very popular, with Green Island, Powers No1 and Anytime the best brands. South African wines adorn many menus and the locally brewed pilsner lager is called Phoenix. Yoghurt drinks are everywhere too, so try a lassi or an alouda.
Nightlife in Mauritius
There aren't many people who come to Mauritius in search of thumping nightlife as it's more of a laid back place. You'll find live music and entertainment at most of the big hotels, and displays of the local rhythmic music that accompanies sega dance, which blends many musical influences over African beats. Audience participation is often encouraged. Many hotels will host a beach barbecue once again and some nights are themed.
In Port Louis, you'll find bars, restaurants and a casino along the swish Le Caudan Waterfront development. In Grande Baie and elsewhere, go for your own sega dance, either in a hotel or in town.
There aren't many people who come to Mauritius in search of thumping nightlife as it's more of a laid back place. You'll find live music and entertainment at most of the big hotels, and displays of the local rhythmic music that accompanies sega dance, which blends many musical influences over African beats. Audience participation is often encouraged. Many hotels will host a beach barbecue once again and some nights are themed.
In Port Louis, you'll find bars, restaurants and a casino along the swish Le Caudan Waterfront development. In Grande Baie and elsewhere, go for your own sega dance, either in a hotel or in town.
Shopping in Mauritius
The main market in the narrow alleys of Port Louis is a real highlight as it'll give you a true taste of local life. Colourful spices, clothes, medicinal herbs and handicrafts are all on offer, but keep an eye out for pickpockets.
Model ship-making is big business in Mauritius - you'll find intricate miniatures of The Bounty and other famous sailing vessels; the best place to buy is Voiliers de L'Ocean in Curepipe, or the Historic Marine factory in Goodlands. Otherwise rum, tea and vanilla are all good buys.
The main market in the narrow alleys of Port Louis is a real highlight as it'll give you a true taste of local life. Colourful spices, clothes, medicinal herbs and handicrafts are all on offer, but keep an eye out for pickpockets.
Model ship-making is big business in Mauritius - you'll find intricate miniatures of The Bounty and other famous sailing vessels; the best place to buy is Voiliers de L'Ocean in Curepipe, or the Historic Marine factory in Goodlands. Otherwise rum, tea and vanilla are all good buys.
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