Blueprint for Paradise

If you’ve been looking up Mauritius on the internet, Mark Twain’s famous quote, is no doubt familiar to you by now. One look at the pristine beaches, towering mountain ranges and emerald sugar cane plantations, and it’s easy to see why Twain saw the island as the blueprint for Paradise.

But what would happen if our American wordsmith were to visit the island today? Would he still compare it to the heavens? Of course! But we bet he’d be too busy enjoying himself to bother writing anything down at all. Mauritius is more than a pretty face and the island offers a smorgasbord of activities to keep you busy from sun up till sundown. If you’re planning a trip, here’s a glimpse of what you can do while you’re here.

1. Explore the coast and beaches

No “to do list” of the island would be complete without mentioning our beaches. It’s what we’re known for and we’re proud that they’re among the best in Indian Ocean.

But here’s a little tip: Not all beaches on the island are created equal.

Depending on where you decide to lay your towel, you can always expect something a little different. For vibrant nightlife, packed beach bars and luxury shopping strips, nothing beats the beaches of North.

With its wind swept coasts, craggy cliffs and crashing waves, the South of the island, is for the artistic souls.

Head to the east coast to find some hard to reach – and completely deserted – gems not listed on most brochures and the West offers miles of pristine beaches, excellent restaurants and popular landmarks such as Le Morne mountain. Speaking of which…

2. Forest and mountain treks

Azure waters might be the public face of Mauritius, but its soul, is tucked away in the lush tropical forests and mountain ranges dotting the island. You’ll find crashing waterfalls, freshwater ponds, towering peaks and little hillside villages frozen in time, all within an hour’s drive from most coastal hotels. Ignore them, and you’ll be missing out.

Popular climbing spots include Le Morne mountain ( a UNESCO heritage listed site ), the Black River gorges – home to the island’s largest waterfall – and Le Pouce mountain, an easy climb but with sweeping views of the coast once you reach the top.

3. Golf

A day on the tee never looked this good. Mauritius isn’t shy of exceptional courses for avid golfers to enjoy and even if some prove to be quite a challenge, the paradisiacal setting should keep all frustration at bay.

Designed by “the Big Easy” Ernie Els himself, the Four Seasons Mauritius at Anahita’s 18 hole course is built to USGA standards and is the first of it’s kind of the island.

For something a little less challenging (but just as gorgeous) jump on a speedboat or catamaran and head for the Ile Aux Cerfs Golf Club just off the coast of the mainland. With ocean views, volcanic rocks and lakes all around, there’s nothing else quite like this Bernhard Langer designed course.

Other great options include the Bel Ombre Golf Course (designed by Peter Matkovich), the Tamarina Golf Club, the Constance Belle Mare Plage courses and Avalon Golf Estate.

For an overview of the courses and to book some playing time, get in touch with us and we’ll be more than happy to help.

4. Luxury Hotels.

The worst kept secret among luxury travellers for decades, Mauritius, is where the world’s upper crust escape from prying eyes and into the confines of sleek and sexy luxury resorts.

Designed to cater for an elite clientèle, the hotel’s you’ll find here, are among the best in the world and whether you’re after a stay in international brands such as the St Regis, Shangri-La, and the Four Seasons or boutique gems such as the Royal Palm, you’ll find the right home away from home on our pristine coasts.

With world class spas within their midsts and located alongside breathtaking landmarks and the crystal waters of the Indian Ocean, all of the hotels and resorts on our portfolio offer a remarkable sense of place, and a world of exclusive experiences for you to enjoy. Even if you never go past their walls, you can still consider your vacation well spent.

All of the activities and excursions listed above are all bookable through Coquille Bonheur. If you’d like to discover our beautiful island in complete comfort and luxury, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us and we’ll be more than happy to show you around.