Mauritius

Mauritius is without a doubt one of the top three island destinations in the Indian Ocean (along with the Maldives and the Seychelles). Beautiful beaches, azure blue waters and some of the most luxurious resorts in the world will tempt you to an island where you can tick a few bucket list items off your list! Here are a few of my highlights and must-sees.

Le Morne Brabant

Le Morne Brabant is located on the south-western tip of the island and is classed a UNESCO world heritage site. It’s symbolic of the slaves’ fight for freedom and is an important part of Mauritian history. At an altitude of 550m, it offers spectacular views of Mauritius if you are prepared to make the 3-hour hike to its summit!

At the foot of the mountain is Le Morne Beach, home to the luxury hotels: JW Marriott Mauritius Resort, Lux Le Morne and Dinarobin Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa. One of the finest beaches on the island, particularly at sunset, a highlight not to be missed!

One of Mauritius’ most iconic attractions, Chamarel’s Seven Coloured Earth is in the south-west of the island. With over 600 million years of history, this Geopark is one of the island’s most-visited attractions and probably one of the most instagrammable!

Located in the same area is the 100m high Chamarel waterfall. You can admire it from above as you head to the Geopark, or the more adventurous can make the three-hour trek down to the base to swim in the pool below.

And for families or those seeking a quick adrenalin rush, Lavilleon Adventure Park offers several different activities including hikes, a Via Ferrata and zip lines and a Nepalese bridge over the canyon.

Île aux Cerfs is one of the most popular excursions on the East of the island. Numerous boat trips are available and can be combined with sites such as the Grand River South East Waterfall, Île au Phare (the old lighthouse), swimming with dolphins and snorkeling in the lagoon. For golf lovers, the 18-hole golf course on Île aux Cerfs is an absolute must!

Luxury hotels near to Île aux Cerfs include Shangri-La Le Touessrok and Four Seasons Resort at Anahita. Further up the east coast in Flacq, you will find what is probably the best hotel on the island, The One & Only Le Saint Géran, and the Constance Belle Mare.

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden

The Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden is in the North of the Island in the district of Pamplemousse near Port Louis, hence it also being called the Pamplemousse gardens. It’s 37 hectares are home to more than 650 varieties of plants including 85 different varieties if palm trees. Who knew there were that many!

Highlights of the garden include the Grand Bassin, the Water Lily Pond and the Chateau Mon Plaisir.