MAURITIUS
A true exotic paradise, formerly a Dutch, French and English colony. Mauritius is a large island of 2,040 km². It is a crossroads where different cultures meet, reflecting today with its architecture, music, art and gastronomy. Coral reefs adorn the Mauritius coast, forming lagoons with crystal-clear waters, while hotels and resorts justify the term luxury destination. Offshore fishing is a big local "passion" - from November to April and all major hotels organize their own boat trips in search of sharks, yellowfin tuna, barracuda and delicious blue Marlin swordfish. In addition to relaxation, it is of course worth taking the time to explore the hinterland by 4x4, as the road network is often "adventure". The markets are also interesting: the island has a tradition in knitwear and fabrics, you will also find clothes, embroidery, semi-precious stones and tax-free diamonds of exceptional quality at competitive prices!
To go:
The climate is tropical and the weather is variable. Their summer months are from October to Easter, there is heat and humidity, it's hunting season. If you go in winter (July-September), temperatures and humidity drop, as do prices.
Where to go:
Port Louis is the capital of the island of Mauritius. It is an important port and intermediate stop for merchant ships bound for India. It was founded in 1736 by the governor of the time, Mae de Labourdonai. It is a multi-religious city where Hindus, Chinese and Catholics live together in harmony. Port Louis attractions include the many French colonial-style buildings in the city centre, notably the Government House, the Chinese Pagoda, ornate Hindu temples, the central market, and the Pampelmaus Botanical Gardens. city.
The Pamplemousses Botanical Garden is one of Mauritius' most popular attractions and one of the oldest in the world. For the last 300 years, in the private garden of the French governor, botanical research has been carried out in the place where thousands of tropical plants have been found. A magical microcosm with dozens of date palm varieties, herbs and spices producing trees and plants, and a wonderful collection of huge Queen Victoria variety water lilies.
Sugar's adventure:
A former sugarcane processing plant in Beau Plan in the northern Pamplemousses region has become a museum that talks not only about sugarcane, but also how its exploitation affected society, the slave trade and the history of the island. It will take a lot of reading - especially French.
Casela Bird Park:
In a stunning location near Flic en Flac, the park is home to about 140 bird species from around the world, including the endangered species, the pink pigeon of Mauritius. You'll also see giant tortoises, kangaroos, tigers, and more.
Ile des Deux Cocos:
You can reach this private island paradise in five minutes from Blue Bay by speedboat. Relax in the hammock with a cocktail in the dreamy landscape, ideal for diving and swimming in the turquoise waters, and if you're lucky, you might even get up close to the dolphins! Take a cruise on the glass floor boat to enjoy the magic of the seabed in "direct" contact. We unconditionally recommend the BBQ buffet with seafood, fresh fish or meat in the all-inclusive price, from cocktails and wines to champagne drinks. The island is owned by Naiade Resorts, which also organizes day trips.
Ile aux Cerfes:
The islet off the east coast is the most famous postcard from Mauritius. This is exactly why it has become a tourist attraction - it belongs to Touessrok hotels. If you're a fan of the genre, take a day trip by ferry or inflatable boat for some solid market research - bargains are a must.
The Land of Seven Colors-Chamarel Falls:
In the southwestern part of the island there is a peculiar geological formation: bare patches of land, such as "wrinkled" sand dunes, where you can distinguish various shades from red and anthracite (thanks to iron) to blue and purple (due to aluminum). Over the years it has produced this impressive result by influencing volcanic lava. And the waterfalls of Chamarel are worth seeing: although there are many rainforests in the Black River region, the water falls from a great height through the middle of the tropical vegetation.
Tamarin Falls:
The seven waterfalls falling rapidly from a height of 293 m will impress you as much as the view of the west coast and the lush peninsula Le Morne. You can also swim in the natural pool formed at the bottom of the waterfalls.
La Vanille Crocodile Turtle Park:
Many crocodiles, giant tortoises, monkeys, iguanas and various other animals in a tropical environment full of exotic trees and giant bamboos. The insectorium is also extremely interesting with beautiful large butterflies, spiders and beetles.
Rhumerie de Chamarel:
Not only drink lovers will be thrilled with the experience of visiting this distillery, created by local architect Maurice Giraud with local ingredients. You will see how they make their excellent quality rum (2011 gold medal at the Concours).
Mondial de Bruxelles and World Spirit Award), while at the restaurant, you can enjoy your meal with exotic flavors from the ingredients provided by the property, as well as hunting dishes (only open at noon).
Accomodation:
Mauritius is famous for its luxury hotels and high service. The food is excellent as it is influenced by French and Creole cuisine. You can choose between 4* and 5* hotels with half board.
Recommended hotels:
Meridian 4 *
Le Cannonier 4 *
Le Victoria 4 *
La Pirogue 4 *
Sugar Beach 5 *
Find it at Biches Resort 5 *
Shandrani Resort & amp; Spa 5 *
Dinarobin Golf & amp; Spa 5 *
Hilton Mauritius 5 *
Or many other suggestions for every taste! Prices for 5 nights start from € 1,150 per person in a double room.