Famously beautiful, the palm-fringed volcanic island of Mauritius sits amidst a protected lagoon in the Indian Ocean. Mark Twain praised the island in 1896, writing “You gather the idea that Mauritius was made first and then heaven, and that heaven was copied from Mauritius” — and the line has stuck. A land of white sand beaches, verdant mountains and swaying fields of sugar cane, Mauritius has long fascinated both relaxed beachgoers and keen explorers. Many of the best places to stay on the island are luxurious beach resorts but our Gurus have also highlighted a growing crop of charming eco-lodges and boutique hideaways, reflective of the island’s emerging entrepreneurial spirit.
Some of our Mauritius Collections:
Head north to the pretty town of Grand Baie for excellent restaurants, boutiques and bars set close to a stunning bay. Yachts and fishing boats bob in tranquil waters, and the nearby white sand beaches are lined with characterful volcanic rock bungalows topped with blue and green roofs. Watersports enthusiasts will adore swimming, sailing, diving and water skiing around the island. The west coast, with activity-focused Tamarin and magical Le Morne, feels wilder, and brilliant for surfers, kite surfers and keen hikers, whilst the east coast is home to gorgeous resorts on vast stretches of sandy coastline. Remote Rodrigues, part of Mauritius yet 1.5 hours' flight away, is ideal for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-track escape.
Though many of the best places to stay in Mauritius are marvellous seaside resorts, it’s well worth venturing into the island’s interior to discover verdant mountains, refreshing waterfalls and abundant birdlife. Chamarel is a great starting point for eager ramblers; it's close to the Ebony Forest Reserve and the Black Gorges National Park. Further north, well-preserved plantation houses such as le Château de Labourdonnais — now a reputable rum distillery — and Euréka, as well as L’Aventure du Sucre Museum reflect the island’s sugar-producing past. Finally, no trip is complete without a day amongst the bustling markets, intriguing museums and heritage buildings of Port Louis — also the top spot to savour Mauritian street snacks!
