Mauritius holidays : what do I have to know
Wondering why a travel to Mauritius is so attractive ? For its beaches, for its culture, for its excursions or for all of these at once? Follow us, we will answer your question and show you that a trip to Mauritius is just what you need!
What are the best beaches in Mauritius?
Practically all the coasts of Mauritius are home to beautiful white sandy beaches. The only exception is in the south of the island, where volcanic cliffs have taken over and created an equally beautiful landscape. This gives you a wide choice as to where you want to spend your time. The question then arises as to which are the most beautiful beaches in Mauritius and which one to choose according to your likes and tastes. Take a look at our selection and let us guide you!
The beach at Mont Choisy
Ideally located in the north-west of the country, where the beaches are the widest and most stretched, Mont Choisy beach is perfect for hosting your family getaway. On its fine sand bordering turquoise waters, you can swim without fear of being disturbed by the wind. Indeed, the beach is well protected from the wind and the lagoons look like an outdoor swimming pool. Another strong point of the beach is the absence of rocks and coral. This means you won't have to worry about the safety of your children, who will be able to swim in complete peace of mind. Finally, at night, you can enjoy the entertainment or one of the barbecues organised on the beach. In short, from morning to night, you won't regret going to Mont Choisy beach during your holidays in Mauritius.
The La Cuvette public beach: a beach in Mauritius at Grand Baie Island
Bordering this must-see to the fishermen's village at Mauritius that Grand Baie is, you can't miss La Cuvette beach. Discreet and ready, it is hidden in the heart of the rocks and offers ideal swimming conditions. Its white sand with golden reflections will welcome your walks with finesse. Its moderate climate will give you the perfect dose of vitamin C. Its turquoise waters will make your swims pleasant. The richness of the sea bed will surprise you. Equipped with a mask and a snorkel, you will be able to discover them. And if you want to see them in more depth, go to the diving school on the beach.
One of the most beautiful beaches in Mauritius: Trou-aux-Biches Beach
A true paradise on earth in Mauritius, the beach of Trou aux Biches is so beautiful that it will literally take your breath away. You can enjoy a very pleasant swim here. This is due to the fact that the water is full of broken coral and rocks. Over its three kilometres of length, lazing around will have an unmistakable flavour. And once you've walked around the beach, you can explore the sea bed. Trou aux Biches is indeed considered as one of the best diving spots in the country. Waves, corals, tropical fish, the Indian Ocean is full of great places to dive. Finally, end your stopover on the island with a tour of the city's centre. The city is fortunate to have retained its original charm and not to have been disrupted by mass development. The ideal place to enjoy the most comfortable of days.
Belle Mare Beach
Belle Mare beach is considered as one of the most beautiful and important beaches in Mauritius. Located on the eastern coast, you will be surprised by its particularly wild character. It is still, and hopefully forever, close to the major tourist infrastructure. Once you have passed the fine sand, you will be in the heart of a green landscape. The high filaos will beckon you to enjoy a walk or a simple stroll. On the sea side, the calm waters with waves will allow you to snorkel in complete safety. Finally, since Mauritius is not complete without the small restaurants that line it, take a gourmet break in those that line the beach of Belle Mare. The local cuisine, inspired by the former colonies, but also by Africa and Asia, will undoubtedly intoxicate you.
Mauritius: when to go and discover its culture?
If a travel to Mauritius is synonymous with such beautiful promises, it is also because of its rich culture. Its people and their unique cultural identity are the result of an unparalleled ethnic mix. This has given rise to an unparalleled historical heritage. Check out these must-sees that will convince you to visit the island.
The museums
As everywhere else, museums are a good way to get a glimpse of the country’s history. And that's good because Mauritius has many museums worth visiting. The Frederik Hendrik Museum in the Old Grand Harbour, for example, traces the history of the first settlers who lived on the island. The Blue Penny Museum in Port Louis displays several works of art, including one of the world’s most expensive stamps. The latter reminds us that Mauritius was the first British colony to produce stamps. L'Aventure du sucre, a sugar museum set up in an old sugar factory in Pamplemousse, offers a delicious historical tour. The museums of Tea, Photography, Natural History, the Naval Museum of Maharashtra, and more... You have no excuse not to come back and know more about Mauritian history.
The secrets of the rum factory in Mauritius
For an immersion in the heart of Mauritian culture, it is impossible to go without rum. So discover the secrets of this typical Mauritian drink by visiting the Rhumerie de Chamarel. Created by the Mauritian architect Maurice Giraud, it has been designed to offer the best experience to its visitors. And the least we can say is that the mission is accomplished! Its human-sized spaces will allow you to learn more in a serene and peaceful atmosphere. At an altitude of 300 metres in the south-west of the island, you will find an estate of 300 hectares which logically includes sugar cane crops, but also fruit and vegetable plantations. You can end your visit with a break at L'Alchimiste, the restaurant of the rum factory. In short, the Rhumerie de Chamarel has everything you would expect from a rum factory in Mauritius.
The village of Cap Malheureux
The place of choice for postcards depicting the country, the village of Cap Malheureux is a must-see during a trip to Mauritius. Above all, don't be fooled by its unappealing name! The latter is linked to all the shipwrecks that took place on its shores in the past and to the disembarkation of the English ships in 1810. However, today it is a picturesque place ten minutes from Grand Baie. The village is often symbolised and represented by its red-roofed church. From the church, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Coin de Mire. Then pass through the small postcard-like fishing port. Readers of Jacques-Henri Bernardin de Saint-Pierre's novel Paul et Virginie will be able to relive the scene of the shipwreck of the sailboat that brought Virginie to the island. Finally, finish off in style with the small beach with its blue gradations.
What excursions to do in Mauritius ?
"What to do in Mauritius ?" is not a question that goes unanswered for long. In addition to its coasts lined with heavenly beaches and its relics testifying to its past, the country has lagoons and coastlines, as well as parks and gardens whose richness is recognised worldwide. Boredom will clearly not be part of your vocabulary on this dream getaway.
L’île aux Cerfs
Nestled in the lagoon of Trou d'Eau Douce, the île aux Cerfs is rightly considered one of the most beautiful sites in the country. Popular with locals and travellers alike, it offers a wealth of experiences. If only for half a day or a full day, don't miss out! After arriving by water taxi from Trou d'Eau Douce, you will be faced with a abudance of choices. Are you going to get bored on the sandy beaches? Or will you try one of the water sports activities on offer on the island? Or practice your swing on the Ile aux Cerfs Golf Club, one of the most famous courses in the world? It's up to you! What is certain is that once your day is over, you won't want to miss out on taking your taste buds on a journey to one of the restaurants with local flavours.
L’île d’Ambre
After l’île aux Cerfs, l’île d’Ambre will allow you to discover a wilder side of Mauritius. Situated off the north-eastern coast, it will prove to be ideal for an unforgettable hike. Its 140 hectares protected by the Mauritian government through the status of national park guarantee you an extraordinary landscape. From the moment you arrive, after only 15 minutes by boat from the coast, you will be surprised by the external environment. Mangroves, rocks and clear waters surround this small piece of land where vistas are heavenly. During your walk, you will also discover historical ruins that will allow you to go back to the 18th century, when the island was a French colony. Finally, you will stop at the water-filled volcanic crater. Throughout this hike, you will be able to admire the native plants and wildlife, including butterflies and lizards.
Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden
The Pamplemousses Garden, also known as the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, is world-renowned for its rich species. It covers an area of 37 hectares. Its species originate from various regions. It was originally created by François Mahé de la Bourdonnais, who wanted a simple vegetable garden, but was later bought by Pierre Poivre, then Intendant of the French Republic; Pierre Poivre, then intendant of the island, began to introduce plant species from all over the world. At that time, trees and spices from the West Indies, India, Africa, and China were the main ones found. Many botanists would later continue Pierre Poivre's efforts and add new species year after year. Bottle palms, lotus, baobabs, ferns, orchids, etc. You will have the impression of entering another dimension, as the species are so numerous. Let yourself be transported by the scents that are wafting in and take your senses on a journey.
Convinced? Now all you have to do is book your trip with VeryChic and let yourself be transported to a world of new adventures. Also, don't forget to complement your visits and getaways with the other wonders that Mauritius has to offer. Blue Bay Marine Park, Tamarin Bay, Black Rocks Caves, Tamarin Falls, there is so much to visit. Not to mention that if you book your accommodation through VeryChic private sales, whether your choice is a luxury hotel in Mauritius, or an all-inclusive hotel in Mauritius, the facilities at your hotel may not make you want to leave.