Destinations
There’s something inherently awe-inspiring about the ferocious power contained within a volcano. A mighty eruption that can spew massive amounts of magma, enough so that when cooled down they have formed a fantastic island, one that now attracts thousands of people across the world to come, witness and enjoy its astounding appeal.
That is exactly the story behind Mauritius, an island nation located in the Indian Ocean just off the eastern coast of Africa. Surrounding this volcanically created piece of art are numerous coral reefs that you definitely feel calling you to explore just from the pictures alone. The island itself is filled with lush vegetation, exotic locales and many endemic species of animals to satiate your curiosity.
Culture
Mauritius is quite an ethnically diverse island and the culture that has developed on the island reflects that notion. One such facet of Mauritian culture is its music, specifically the style that is known as Séga, which is the most popular style of music on the island and one that originates from there as well.
The cuisine is also the same with meals in Mauritius often being made up of dishes from all the different ethnicities that make up the island’s population which includes French, Indians, Chinese and Africans. Another aspect of Mauritian culinary culture is their Rum which is produced in various places throughout the island. This has been true since the 1800s when sugar cane production was in full swing.
With great local songs, food and drink, it’s the perfect environment for you to let loose embrace the traditions and history of the islands.
The Most Spectacular Sights in Mauritius
The Black River Gorges National Park
If you’re looking to truly embrace the bountiful beauty of nature during your stay in Mauritius then a crucial stop on your vacation list should, undoubtedly, be the Black Gorges National Park.
This veritable treasure trove of natural beauty can be found toward the southwest of the region and is hailed as one of the most gorgeous parks in the country. It is also the largest one in Mauritius and its lush green landscapes house over 300 different species of plants, birds, monkeys, deer, fruit bats and more.
If simply walking alongside such beauty won’t do that how about eating instead? A lovely view is one of the best seasonings of any kind of dish and the host of picnic spots around the park provide a variety of options for you to partake of.
If you want to know the best views to enhance your experience then make sure to check out the Gorges viewpoint, Alexandra Falls and the highest mountain in Mauritius, Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire.
Pamplemousses Botanical Garden
Maybe you want a bit of history when admiring nature’s beauty? Then go visit the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden for an experience you’re unlikely to forget.
This testimonial to mother nature’s splendour was first constructed in the 18th century and remains the oldest existing botanical garden in the Indian Ocean. The idea behind the garden was to acclimate tropical species to the climate of Mauritius island.
City life is often quite a hassle, something I’m sure you’re familiar with, and that’s why places such as this garden are so important. Vacation is meant to be a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life and the tranquil, serene atmosphere along with the gorgeous views offered by the garden are the perfect medicine to cure all that built up city life fatigue.
There’s a host of wonders to discover walking through the area from the one-of-a-kind giant water-lily pond to giant tortoises and bats, and a whole lot more of wonderful plants and animals. The garden is open daily even on public holidays, making it an easy fit into any traveller’s schedule.
L’Aventure du Sucre
Education isn’t exactly the most exciting prospect for a lot of people but learning something new, especially when visiting new lands is an important part of a fulfilling trip, don’t you agree? To provide something both educational and fun, that’s what L’Aventure du Sucre aims for.
The museum is set inside an old sugar factory and prides itself on teaching you about the history, culture and people of Mauritius in an easily understandable way. It’s a place that mixes modern, well-designed exhibits with an old age charm that will encapsulate you in an atmosphere out of the past.
Absorbing the knowledge on display here will allow you to appreciate and witness the beauty of these lands in a newfound perspective.
Thrilling Activities for Sprucing up your Vacation
Quad Biking
Don’t you feel it’s sometimes best to go off the beaten part during a vacation? Well, if you do then Quad biking might just be the most perfect way to do it.
There are numerous places where you can go on a quad bike tour, one of which is Domaine De L’Etolie. Situated on the east coast of the island, it is a beautiful place filled with protected wild flora and fauna and stretches out over 1200 hectares.
Domaine De L’Etoile is the largest private resort on Mauritius Island and is the base of TerrOcean, an adventure activity company, which offers a vast range of fun outdoor activities which includes ziplining, horseback riding, hiking and, of course, quad biking tours.
Whether you wish to take the wheels yourself or simply set back and enjoy the ride, you’ll have the option to do either. Once you’ve made your choice, then I hope you’re ready to wowed as you’re going to hit the dirt and find yourself charging through forests, valleys and fields, taking in the beauty of it all while feeling the wind in your hair. Quad bikes also make it fairly easy to get up the mountains for some gorgeous bird’s eye views, something which I think you’ll very greatly enjoy.
Submarine Experience
So far we’ve stuck to the land but one of the best qualities of an island are its waters. There are tons of great water activities associated with islands, most of which I’m sure you’ll find familiar such as diving, swimming, snorkelling etc. However, if you’re looking for something more unique, something that is sure to make a lasting impression then my friend, let me tell you about Mauritius’ Submarine experience.
Even at only 45 minutes long, this undersea adventure is truly a uniquely
thrilling ride. Going to a depth of 40 meters under the waters’ surface reveals a brand new world that sure is to get your heart pumping with excitement. The variety in colours of fish that swim past, weave in and out of the vibrant coral reefs and other exotic sights such as giant turtles all blend together to create an otherworldly experience like something out of a dream.
It’s an exhilarating journey throughout and I’m sure you’ll feel the same once step on that submarine.
Flyboarding
Tacking on to the unique water activities, we have Flyboarding. Now, what is Flyboarding, you may ask? Well, it’s as the name implies, it’s a board that you can fly on, simple as that.
What’s that? You want more details? Well, alright then, if you insist. Like was stated, It’s a board you can fly on, with the flying aspect made possible due to gas turbines pumping and funnelling out water at high speeds.
As soon a the device is on, you’ll find yourself up in the air, two columns of water jutting out of your feet, from that point, it’s up to you to make most of it as you only get 20 mins and the clock is ticking down. Fortunately, Flyboarding looks harder than it is and with just a few minutes necessary to master your balance, you’ll be zooming through the air and waters in no time.
Helicopter Tour
From the land to the seas and now the skies, everywhere you go, an adventure awaits. With its pristine blue waters, incredible lagoons and glistening white sand beaches, Mauritius is a prime location for Helicopter tours as a sky-high view will allow you to take in the beauty of the island on a grand scale.
Besides, don’t you think helicopters or, really, just flying through the air is cool. Having your own personal helicopter guide you around the islands, showing off the remarkable panoramic views and vibrant picturesque scenery is something that you’ll be able to cherish in your memories for a long while, it’s a truly exceptional experience.
Even if You Only Stay a Night, These Places will Knock Your Knocks Off
One&Only Le Saint Géran
Located on a private peninsula, One&Only Le Saint Géran offers beautiful oceanic and lagoon views that can be comfortably enjoyed from your luxurious rooms with their distinctive island-inspired decor and fully furnished outdoor living space. The rooms come equipped with intricately lined marble bathrooms with a dressing area and separate shower and bath.
Along with such fabulous rooms are equally fantastic services and facilities. Want to get a little workout? Try out the tennis courts, mini-golf courses or gym. Are you both hungry and looking for a relaxing swim? Well, then try the central bar and restaurant which are right near the main pool. Need a bit of help at 1 am in the night? No need to fret, there’s a 24-hour butler service ready to cover whatever you desire.
And of course, you have stunning nature all around including vibrant coral reefs, pristine waters and a lovely half-moon shaped stretch of white sand beach.
Lakaz Chamarel Exclusive Lodge
If you want to diversify where you spend your time, then maybe you’d want a resort a bit away from Mauritius’ beaches. In that case, the Lakaz Chamarel Exclusive Lodge is perfect for you. It is surrounded by Black River Natural Park and the mountains of Chamarel and offers magnificent views of the countryside and western lagoon.
The rooms provided by the resort are no less magnificent with their spacious interiors that come stocked with a variety of items including a minibar, telephone, tea and coffee making machines and more. The bathrooms also feature an outdoor shower.
The staff is great as well, always paying attention to your needs and attending to them before you have a chance to ask. Some choice facilities that you’ll surely love include an amazing sauna and massage cabin.
Bubble Lodge Bois Chéri Plantation
Have you ever blown bubbles as a kid and thought, “hmm, I wonder if I could go inside one?”, well, whether you did or not, now you have the chance to make that thought a reality with Mauritius’ Bubble Lodge which is set up on the historic Bois-Cheri tea plantation.
This resort offers you the chance to encounter one of the most unique and magical nights you’ll ever have. The accommodation offered by the resort is a transparent bubble styled room that is designed to maximise your viewing pleasure. In the quiet of the night with the glow of your lamps retreated into darkness, get ready for a truly transcendental occurrence as the roof of your accommodation seemingly vanishes into the night and you’re left basked by the canopy of treetops along with the mesmerizing night sky, its shimmering stars like glistening pearls strewn across an astral ocean. This unprecedently mystic respite is further enchanted by the song of the wind and the waves, rustling through the leaves and crashing upon the shore in the most melodious fashion. It is truly an experience unlike any other, the surreal nature of our world exemplified in the most glorious manner, a manner that will capture the heart of any who experience it.
Outside of the grand experience, the rooms also offer sumptuous beds, a private bathroom and an outdoor, open sky shower. There’s also a sofa bed available for children. Besides the distinct accommodations, the resort has a number of free activities to partake in such as hiking, kayaking, paddling, teas tasting and more. And, for a bit of extra cash, the hotel can arrange quad biking, visits to the teas factory and golfing. And you don’t need to worry about being hungry after all those activities thanks to a private breakfast and dinner experience offered to all guests at the resort’s lake-view restaurant.
