Being South African, and having Mauritius a short flight away, I never viewed this destination as a very exciting option. When we started taking island holidays, we opted for the islands of Thailand and Malaysia, and as a result spent many long flights crossing the Indian Ocean to experience island Life.
We first visited Mauritius in 2012 and have been back eight times! I dont think I need to explain more then, to convince yout this is an idyllic island destination.
Besides the short flying time – under four hours if you fly out of Johannesburg International, this island and its people are just so welcoming and the natural beauty and warm waters keep whispering for our return.
We have stayed all over the island, North, South, East and West. Each area has its drawcard:
North Island
The town of Grand Bay is situated here and with it a more vibey atmosphere and larger population, this area is perfect for a first time visit to the island. There are a few great options of hotels and self-catering accommodation. Most villas for hire offer full cleaning services as well as an option to hire a chef who will not only shop locally for fresh produce, but will cook it for you as well. The blue waters found here may not be crystal clear but they are still so pretty and your eye will constantly be drawn to the beautiful bays. You will also find the areas of Grand Gaube, Point aux Cannonier and Mont Choissy up North. These areas are within a fifteen minute drive from Grand Bay:
Grand Gaube/ Calodyne area – East of Grand Bay
Pros – beautiful views out to sea with the rock island of Gunner’s Quoin drawing your eye to the horizon. Also a few great hotels including the luxurious Lux Grand Gaube which is a couples destination for sure! Zilwa Attitude is also a great choice as an all inclusive for families.
Cons – Waters are quite shallow in this area and there is quite a bit of seaweed underfoot in the bays so not idyllic for bathing.
Mont Choisy and Point aux Cannoniers
Pros – Mont choisy is one of the best bays for swimming – with lovely white sandy beaches which stretch over a wide bay. Alongside this lies Point aux Cannoniers with its interesting coves and is amazing for snorkelling. A good choices of hotel here is Beachcomber Le Cannonier . This is a perfect four star option for families. There are also plenty of self-catering options in the area.
Cons – Mont choisy is a large public beach so avoid this area over the festive period of New year and/or Easter if you’re not partial to crowds. The east side of Cannonier can get a bit windy and cooler in the winter months.
West coast
Pros – magnificent sunsets!!! Calmer waters in the winter months and lovely stretches of beaches. There are many areas along the west coast which are popular among toursits. I have personally stayed in Flic en Flac a few times, both in self catering and at the gorgeous Sugar Beach Hotel. You cant go wrong in this area in particular. Winter is mild and I have swam in these waters throughout the colder months.
Cons – can’t think of many, except the main beaches are once again popular with locals who spend time at the many parks dotted along the coast.
South West Coast
Pros – beautiful quieter side of the island with a bit of everything thrown in. Wonderful five star hotels, world renowned golf courses and dramatic scenery. You will find the sands of Le Chamarel here, as well as rum factories.
Cons – quite a drive to Port louis or any of the busier hubs so it could feel isolated if your first time down this side.
East Coast
Pros – This area is definitely a bit less developed than the West side, with not much happening outside of the hotels. The beaches are beautiful for snorkelling. and windsurfers have a blast in the windier winter months. A lot of great day trips are offered from this area to the beautiful Ile aux Cerfs, where you can delight in swimming, parasailing or a round of golf. There are also day trips from here to the beautiful Blue Bay area. A must for snorkelling, swimming and breathtaking natural reserve.
Cons – Weather is definitely more tumultous on this side, and if you are travelling from June to October you can expect wind.
Which ever side of the island you choose to stay – it takes under two hours from North to South traveling by car, and an hour from east to west – I am sure you will find yourself returning again and again, regardless of where you stay.
I hope you have gained a little more insight from this blog on what is undoubtedly my favorite island holiday destination. Please DM me if you have any questions or comment below if you have any more info to share.
xx B
THE MOY LIFE 