Highlights
Île aux Aigrettes
Just 800m off the coast of Mauritius is the popular ecotourism destination of Île aux Aigrettes, a 26-hectare nature reserve on an island. Preserving the rare remnants of the coastal forest of Mauritius, this island holds host to an abundance of wildlife that use this reserve as a sanctuary. It houses a huge range of endangered wildlife species, alongside other beautiful creatures - including Aldabra Giant Tortoises, wild orchids, ebony trees and the endangered Pink Pigeon and other rare bird species.
Pamplemousses Gardens
These enchanting gardens are home to an impressive collection of indigenous and exotic plants. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens is among the finest in the world, after London’s Kew Gardens. The main highlight is the pond filled with beautiful giant Victoria Amazonica water lilies. You may also spot Aldabra Tortoises, some over a hundred years old, or, keep an eye out for the gardens wonderful birdlife.
Historic Buildings
Dating back to 1819, St Aubin is a graceful plantation house exuding charm and character. No longer does the estate produce sugar; however, in the gardens are a traditional rum distillery and a nursery for growing wonderful vanilla, which can be seen on a fascinating tour. Meanwhile, Eureka is another demonstration of Mauritius’ rich colonial history. This wonderful Creole mansion has stood since the 1830s and today offers a brilliant museum, telling a story of the island’s vibrant plantation past.
Vibrant Markets
Take a trip to brilliant Central Market in Port Louis, where you will get a feel for local life, as the vendors shout their wares and Mauritians go about their daily life - the bright colours of the fruit and vegetables are perfect for a photograph. Pay a visit to the twice-weekly (Thursday and Sunday) clothes market at Quatre Bornes; popular with the locals who flock here from miles around to rummage the stalls, you may be able to find top-quality garments for a great price.
Golf
Le Touessrok golf course boasts its very own island, Ile Aux Cerfs, just a five minute water taxi ride from the mainland of Mauritius. The golf course itself (7,082 yard, par 72, designed by two-time US Masters champion Bernhard Langer) is absolutely breath-taking, with almost half the holes running beside the turquoise blue waters of the Indian Ocean. The remaining holes play over and around tidal bays filled with mangroves, providing spectacular views of the nearby ‘Cat and Mouse’ mountain and the lush greenery of the Mauritian countryside. No matter how difficult the challenge, the course’s spectacular beauty will linger in the memory.