Joanna James
An island nation in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius offers a truly divine escape where you can get away from it all on a holiday that can be as relaxing or adventure-filled as you want. If it isn't on your bucket list of destinations, here are some reasons why it should be!
If you are dreaming of secluded beaches with soft sands drenched in sunshine and bordered by azure waters, then Mauritius is a place where that is a reality! The coastline around the island is heavenly, to say the least, and what's more, you can find hotels right along the shore so you can easily begin and end your days on the sand. Belle Mare Beach on the eastern coast is one of the most picturesque you will find on the island and is well worth staying at too; other sublime shores include Trou aux Biches Beach and St Felix Beach.
The island is amongst the best destinations in the world for honeymoons and romantic retreats. Beachside 5-star hotels in Mauritius are perfect for such getaways and offer luxurious accommodation overlooking the ocean, candlelit dinners on the shore and rejuvenating spa rituals for couples too. That said, families have much to enjoy as well! Kids and parents alike can play games on the beach, try activities like snorkelling and visit the Splash N Fun Leisure Park and Casela Nature Parks, the latter offering rides and animal encounters.
The natural beauty of the island is not just relegated to the coast but to be found inland as well; intrepid travellers will come across landscapes of wild beauty and lush greenery, striking mountains and peaks, enchanting forests, idyllic waterfalls and more. Those staying at properties the likes of The Residence Mauritius by Cenizaro can explore this verdant tropical paradise on visits to sites of breathtaking natural beauty; these include the Black River Gorges National Park, the sacred Grand Bassin lake, Rochester Falls and the Seven Coloured Earth of Chamarel.
Amidst the natural landscapes, one will also find a captivating array of wildlife which is part of the island's rich biodiversity. The native Giant "Aldabra" Tortoises can be seen on Ile aux Aigrettes, a short distance from the mainland, while not to be missed is a visit to the previously mentioned Black River Gorges National Park; it's home to bird species such as the pink pigeon, Mauritius bulbul and Mauritius kestrel as well as other wildlife including giant fruit bats, macaques, deer and wild boar.
Made up of various communities be they of Chinese, African, European or Indian descent, the island has a rich cultural heritage worth experiencing. The east coast is an ideal place to explore and is where one will find various sacred sites be it mosques, temples or churches. Amongst the best attractions in Mauritius is the Sagar Shiv Mandir Hindu temple or "floating temple" on the island of Goyave de Chine; also of note are the Notre Dame Du Bon Secours church and the L'Aventure Du Sucre museum.
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