Saying “vacation in Mauritius” undoubtedly brings to mind the wonderful beaches and the possibility of relaxing in the sun, between a cocktail and a swim in the crystal-clear ocean waters.
However, the island deserves to be discovered also in its most characteristic, cultural, social, and architectural aspects.
Experiencing Mauritius only on the beach of the chosen holiday village would be extremely limiting, so here are some ideas to enrich the vacation experience.
First of all, upon arriving on the paradisiacal island, it is recommended to visit the Pamplemousses botanical garden: a wonderful oasis of flora and fauna that has no equal worldwide. There are, for example, sea lilies with a diameter of up to two meters; Victoria Regia lotus flowers; Talipot and Corifa palms; naturally, it is also possible to observe some animals, such as rare birds.
If you want to further deepen the naturalistic knowledge of the island, it is recommended to move south, to admire the spectacle of the Rochester waterfalls. Other essential stops in this region are the Temple of Grand Bassin, the extinct volcano Trou-aux-Cerfs, and Chamarel, an area known for the earth with different colors.
A tour of Port Louis, the island’s capital, will also be a must: from the fortress to the bazaar, you will breathe the air of daily life.
Another certainly advisable experience is setting out for excursions by catamaran or schooner. Two references to keep in mind: if you want to visit the wild bay of Anse aux Filaos, you will have to go to the Grand Baie pier.
Alternatively, if you are more interested in the Grand Bois area – with its deer reserve – or snorkeling at Grand Port, the reference port will be Trou d’Eau Douce.
Of course, once back on land, you can enjoy a shopping spree in Mauritius, heading to Florane, a place known for buying cashmere sweaters at a great price. Another place dedicated to shopping is Curepipe. In general, the most popular souvenirs are model sailing ships, straw and canvas bags, and finely hand-embroidered tablecloths.
To complete a tour of Mauritius with great taste, nothing is better than a food and wine-themed excursion. Eureka and Domaine les Pailles are ideal places for gourmets. Eureka is an old Creole house where cooking is done according to local tradition and where themed evenings are often held.
Domaine les Pailles is instead a more “complex” place, where an old colonial property has been reconstructed, with an attached rum distillery, mill, alembic room, park, stables, and a restaurant.
There is really so much to do in Mauritius, an island that enchants nature lovers.
