Mauritius – magnificent island playground
Mauritius is a gem of a holiday spot right on our doorstep. Less than four hours from Johannesburg by plane, this beautiful island with 330km of coastline offers just about everything you could want on an island holiday. Outside of the occasional cyclone in cyclone season (November to April), the weather is warm, the water is warm and the skies are clear and sunny.
Crystal clear warm water, coral reefs, sheltered lagoons and sandy white beaches fringed with palm trees are the backdrop to any water-based activity you might like to do – snorkelling, swimming, scuba-diving, sailing, water-skiing, fishing or simply lazing on a beach with a cool drink. Above the water, you might want to try para-sailing or sky-diving.
Away from the beach, the island offers beautiful lush vegetation to explore. Try the Black River Gorges National Park – over 16,680 acres providing a home to over 300 species of native and endemic flowering plants, and nine species of birds that can only be found in Mauritius. The island is also home to more than 60 different orchid species.
Mauritius has also become very popular with golfers. Several hotels have excellent golf courses – the island now offers the golfer more than eight golf courses to choose from. The most spectacular course is to be found at the One&Only Le Touessrok. The course is on its own island: turquoise water, sandy white beaches and a backdrop of green mountains. Concentration is required to keep your mind on the golf!
Accommodation on Mauritius is plentiful, and where you stay will depend on your personal choice and your budget.
Generally, the north of the island is known for its beaches and lagoons. There are many resorts and hotels in this area and it is the most developed, and most ‘touristy’ part of the coastline. There are also plenty of restaurants, cafés, nightclubs and shops.
On the east side of the island, you’ll find coves and lagoons nestled between the mountains and the ocean, cool sea breezes, shaded beaches and fishing villages. Life on the east is slower and more laid back. The main attraction in this area is Ile aux Cerfs, a small island off the mainland. The island, managed by the Le Touessrok Hotel, offers the most beautiful emerald waters and clear white beaches.
The south of the island is the wildest and least developed, with high cliffs and crashing waves. The area is far more rugged than the rest of the island, and offers some magnificent sights. There are very few hotels in this region.
The west side of Mauritius also offers beautiful beaches, with all the facilities that you may want, but it is less developed. There are rivers and streams in this area, and this is the place to access the inland beauty of the island. There are several hotels in this area, as well as several little villages.
Whatever you’re looking for in an island holiday, Mauritius can offer – plus a whole lot more. And being right on our doorstep, it’s no wonder it is so popular for weddings, honeymoons, families and adventure-seekers. Mauritius offers something for everybody, all wrapped up in a beautiful package.
