Mauritius is one of the world’s hidden wonders. This volcanic island is astounding and packed full of attractions and activities to allow travelers to get the most out of this remote paradise. Whether you want to explore mystical waterfalls hidden inland or admire breathtaking sunsets from the balcony of your 5 star hotel, Mauritius will certainly provide all the romance and serenity you could possibly hope for on a vacation to this unique island.
Your first port of call will be the island’s capital and largest city Port Louis. Sitting in the shadow of the Moka Mountain Range, Port Louis plays host to plenty of historic sites. A former French colony, Port Louis is worth exploring before moving on to the island’s breathtaking coastline. As well as its expansive harbor, history enthusiasts will love exploring La Place D’Armes in the historical center as well as the imposing Fort Adelaide which once protected the city. This city is also a good base for several exciting day trips inland. While most hotels on Mauritius overlook the ocean with exceptional access to the shore, the heart of the island should not be overlooked. From Port Louis you can travel to the breathtaking Chamarel Waterfall. Surrounded by lush vegetation this is a natural wonder not to be missed. Another exceptional site to the southwest of the island is the Seven Coloured Earth sand dunes. These dunes seem to shimmer with pink, blue, yellow and purple hues thanks to their volcanic creation.
If you decide to stay in a luxury 5 star hotel on Mauritius’s northern shore then look no further than Grand Baie. If you don’t plan on traveling around the island, then this village has everything you need for the perfect beach vacation. The small streets which run parallel to the water offer a variety of bars and restaurants. The area also has two exceptional beaches, including the tucked away La Cuvette. Unwind on golden sand or pick up a snorkel and explore the translucent water for tropical fish and coral. Further exceptional beaches can be found at Trou aux Biches and Mont Choisy. The area is also a great spot for active individuals looking to try their hand at windsurfing, deep sea diving or sailing. Yacht excursions can be organized through most hotels, or from Grand Bay’s harbor, and you can even explore the lesser traveled waters around the uninhabited island of Gunner’s Quoin or disembark for a picnic and swim on Flat Island. Back on dry land; take the time to sample some local delicacies. Influenced by the island’s European, Indian and Creole population, Mauritian cuisine includes sumptuous fresh fish and exceptional tomato-based curries served with steamed rice and a freshly baked roti.
Hotels on Mauritius’ south coast are just as lovely as those located on its northern shore; however those in the south are arguably situated among some of the island’s most impressive scenery. Sugar cane fields dominate the landscape and rub up against cascading cliffs and beaches of powder-soft sand. It truly is a paradise down here. Book a hotel in Mahebourg to gain access to a small but historical city. For sweeping views over the Grand Port Mountains and Ile aux Aigrettes nature reserve, head to Pointe Canon. Every February the area erupts in color as the city celebrates the abolition of slavery. The annual regatta sees traditional pirogues with colorful sails take to the water in this not-to-be-missed event. Surfers should head to Rivière des Galets to catch some of the best waves on the island, while honeymooners should seek Gris Gris beach for romantic walks along the sand.
Especially popular hotels on Mauritius are the Shanti Maurice Resort & Spa with a wonderful 7,000 sqm spa area, the 5-star superior hotel Royal Palm Beachcomber Luxury with an extraordinary pool landscape including a view of the sandy beach and coconut palm trees, as well as the Hotel Le Touessrok Resort & Golf Course. Here you can spend the night in private pool villas on a picture-book beach.
Besides the Shanti Maurice Resort & Spa, the Four Seasons Resort Mauritius is an absolute dream for romantics and honeymooners. Every villa has a private pool and the resort is surrounded by 3 beaches. Also the 5 star hotel LUX* Grand Gaube with its thatched luxury accommodations as well as the snow-white beach and view to the turquoise-blue sea.
Everybody has seen them in pictures: The beautiful icing-sugar beaches on Mauritius! These are the most beautiful:
Mauritius is actually always worth a visit. Due to the proximity to the equator, the temperatures are stable during the whole year.
High season is the European winter. Between November and March, the thermometer in Mauritius rarely falls below 20°C even at night, which results in water temperatures of a balmy 26-28°C. However, especially in January and February the chances for cyclones are quite high. However, the hotels of Mauritius are prepared for this and are very safe.
The European summer is the dry season in Mauritius. From April to October there is significantly less rain than in the other months. But with highs of 26-29°C during the day and lows of 17°C at night it never gets cold. Water temperatures stay above 24°C all year round.
Mauritius is an island in the Indian Ocean. The easiest way to get there is therefore by airplane via the international airport of Mauritius near Port Louis. From Frankfurt and Zurich there are some direct flights available, but for most cases one has to change at least once. As a consequence, the flight times from Germany vary considerably. A direct flight from Germany takes about 11h 30 minutes.