It may have been our first trip to “Paradise Island” but it certainly won’t be our last.
Mauritius offers travellers a deeply underrated getaway that’s perfect for everyone from beach bums to adrenaline junkies, and from families to solo explorers. Here are five of our top reasons why it should be at the top of your travel bucket list.
1. Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita
Mauritius is renowned for its luxurious resorts, and among them, Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita stands out as a paradisal spot. Nestled on the east coast of the island, the resort boasts a range of lavish accommodations, from villas with infinity pools and panoramic ocean views to luxurious sanctuaries on a private island. Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita is also the only property on the island with stunning four-bedroom villas, one of which was our slice of heaven for the week. While here, you can indulge in the hotel’s eight delicious dining options; our favourite was La Plaz, a beach grill on the resort’s private beach on the island of Ile aux Cerfs. You can also take advantage of the complementary watersports on offer, which range from paddleboarding and waterskiing to sailing. DSCVR tip: Don’t forget to book yourself into the resort’s ultra-luxurious spa if you plan on partaking in the hotel water sports!
2. Bois Chéri Tea Plantation
Located in the heart of Mauritius, this lush plantation offers a unique opportunity to explore the world of tea production and indulge in some of the country’s finest brews. Bois Chéri is the largest tea estate in Mauritius, and a guided tour here will guide you through every step of the tea-making process. From the plucking of delicate tea leaves to the art of blending, you’ll gain insights into the intricate world of tea production. The factory is only functional a few days a week, so make sure to plan ahead and reserve a table by the window at the plantation’s restaurant for some local Mauritian cuisine.
3. La Vallée des Couleurs Nature Park and Zipline
If you’re an adventure seeker, La Vallée des Couleurs Nature Park should be at the top of your Mauritius itinerary. The crown jewel of the park is the 23 Coloured Earths, a geological phenomenon where sand dunes display a stunning rainbow of colours. You can choose to experience the natural wonder by foot or by flight, as the park is home to the longest zipline in the Indian Ocean region. You can also opt into a range of other activities, from quad biking to hiking or opt to meet a pair of 130-year-old turtles.
4. L’Aventure du Sucre
Mauritius’ history is intimately intertwined with sugarcane, and there’s no better place to explore it than at L’Aventure du Sucre. This sugar cane plantation and interactive museum journeys through the island’s history, from its colonial past to its present-day role as a global leader in sugar production. You can also choose to add a rum-tasting experience to your visit, where you can sample a range of varieties and flavour profiles. Make sure to reserve ahead for the sugar cane cutting and mixology experiences.
5. Scuba Dive with Blue World Explorer Mauritius
Mauritius is surrounded by a vibrant coral reef teeming with marine life, making it a scuba diver’s dream. Beginners can participate in a Discover Scuba Dive short course, after which they’ll be able to dive up to 12 meters below the surface to witness beautiful fish, eels and turtles. Experienced divers can explore sites like the Grand Baie Aquarium, Shark Pit or the famous Djabeda Shipwreck. We’d suggest you dive with Blue World Explorer Mauritius, the small PADI-licensed company, led by Sasha and a team of amazing teachers.
