They say size doesn’t matter and when it comes to adventure and activities, Mauritius certainly proves the point to be true.
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Packed into its 2,040 square kilometres of landmass sits the likes of Le Morne Brabant Mountain – a rugged mountain (UNESCO World Heritage Site) full of hidden caves that were used by escaped slaves; the underwater waterfall which sees sand slit shimmied off the submerged shelf creating an incredible scene; The Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolan Botanic Garden – argued to be one of the best botanical gardens in the world, where you can find a tree to help cure flatulence and giant Amazonica lily pads and more wonderful flora unique to the island; and Port Louis – a mini metropolis designed in French colonial-inspired architecture where you can enjoy some city life on the island with a shopping spree amongst local stores and world-famous retailers before enjoying a drink and dinner on Caudan Waterfront. Boredom doesn’t exist in Mauritius.
But where to stay? Well, one of the island’s most exclusive hotels has reopened its doors after a year of extensive renovations – LUX* Belle Mare. Reimagined by local architect Jean-Francois Adam, the resort’s 174 suites and 12 private villas see a minimalist design while celebrating the nature and traditions of the island. The redesign maximises light, giving off indoor-outdoor living vibes with Mauritian designer Jean-Marc Tang adding vibrant colours and touches throughout the complex.
Set in the quaint village of Belle Mare on the east coast of the island, guests can take their pick from five fine dining restaurants, such as Amari by Michelin-starred chef Vineet Bhatia, which serves classic Indian dishes with a modern twist. However, Mauritius is about adventure and the hotel is offering guests the opportunity to escape the resort and explore the island through its Extraordinary Experiences programmes. For those with a penchant for automobiles, hop into a vintage luxury car and hit the road with your private chauffeur to visit traditional temples and the mythical forest of Bras d’Eau before sitting down for a champagne and canapés picnic.
If life on the seas is more your kind of thing, then plump for day on a catamaran where you will sail across the east coast to Ile aux Aigrettes to see some incredible wildlife, including some of the world’s largest Giant Tortoises followed by a dip and snorkel in the sea. And should you get peckish, the onboard chef and mixologist will rustle up something for your taste.
But if you don’t feel like channelling your inner Indiana Jones, stay onsite and get your culinary creativity flowing with a private cooking masterclass at Amari by Vineet All To Yourself, where you will discover some great tips for the midweek family meal when it’s time to go home.
When you’re done with the Mauritian way of life, don’t forget that more African luxury is just a plane or boat ride away, with a continent of epic contrasts that has something for everyone. Africa awaits and you will not be disappointed.
