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 reductive, so here are some ideas to enrich the vacation experience.
First of all, once arrived on the paradisiacal island, it is recommended to visit the botanical garden of Pamplemousses: a wonderful oasis of flora and fauna that has no equal worldwide. There are, for example, sea lilies up to two meters in diameter; 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 deepen your naturalistic knowledge of the island, it is suggested to move southward, to admire the spectacle of the waterfalls at Rochester. Other unmissable stops in this region are the Temple of Grand Bassin, the extinct volcano Trou-aux-Cerfs, and Chamarel, an area known for the soil with different colorations.
A tour of Port Louis, the island’s capital, cannot be missed: from the fortress to the bazaar, you will breathe the air of everyday life.
Another certainly recommended experience is departure 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 head to the pier of Grand Baie.
Otherwise, if you are more interested in the Grand Bois area – with its deer reserve – or snorkeling at Grand Port, the reference port will be that of Trou d’Eau Douce.
Of course, once back on land, you can enjoy a shopping tour in Mauritius, heading to Florane, a place known for buying cashmere sweaters at excellent prices. Another place dedicated to shopping is Curepipe. In general, the most popular souvenirs are sailing ship models, 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 rebuilt, with an adjoining rum distillery, mill, still room, park, stables, and a restaurant.
There is really so much to do in Mauritius, an island that knows how to enchant nature lovers.
