Dubai, UAE – : With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, the stunning island of Mauritius, located in the Indian Ocean, approximately 2,000km off the southeast coast of Africa, offers couples the perfect romantic getaway.
Mauritius boasts miles of pristine white-sand beaches, complemented by lush forests and volcanic peaks. The entire island is surrounded by coral reefs that have created beautiful lagoons. The secluded destination has plenty to offer for couples looking for a romantic holiday in the heart of nature.
Beaches
Mauritius’ exquisite beaches and islets are flanked with swaying palm trees and crystal-clear water. The island is home to a number of luxury resorts with suites and overwater villas that boast infinity pools and gardens, offering the ultimate privacy. The resorts spoil guests with round-the-clock butler service and all-inclusive packages. Some resorts are available to book for adults-only.
North Mauritius has the greatest number of beaches offering watersports such as waterskiing, windsurfing, sailing, deep sea fishing and parasailing. Beaches on the east coast are less crowded and offer spectacular views of the wild, natural beauty; while southern Mauritius is known for its high sea cliffs and dramatic vistas of large waves crashing against the rocks. The western coast is ideal for those chasing magnificent sunsets. Some of Mauritius’ popular beaches are Grand Baie, Trou aux Biches, Ile aux Cerfs, Belle Mare Plage, Flic en Flac and Tamarin Bay.
Waterfalls
The Chamarel Village is one of Mauritius’ hidden gems. Located south of Mauritius, the village boasts seven coloured surfaces also known as ‘The Seven Coloured Earth’. Another must-visit destination in the village is the splendid Chamarel Waterfalls, nestled amid lush green foliage. Couples can enjoy this magical spot with a dip in the cool waters.
Scuba Diving
Mauritius is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking coral reefs. With a scuba diving experience, couples can explore the exotic undersea wonders together including the colourful variety of tropical fish, sponges, sea anemones and even shipwrecks dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Some of the popular dive sites in Mauritius are the Cathedral, the Whale Rock and Roche Zozo.
Outdoor Adventures
There is a wide array of activities for couples that love the outdoors. Travelers can choose dolphin-spotting catamaran cruises or hike through the trails of Black River Gorges National Park to bird watch and experience endemic species in their natural habitat.
Kayaking trips to uninhabited islets are also available with overnight camping on the beach. For adrenaline seekers, Mauritius also offers skydiving and zip lining experiences.
Nature lovers can visit the Mauritius Botanical Garden (Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden), one of the oldest botanical gardens in Africa. According to its storied history, some of the trees in this garden were planted by notable personalities like Nelson Mandela, Indira Gandhi and Princess Margaret.
Golf
Mauritius is a golfing paradise, home to some of the world’s top golf courses. Couples can tee off on the course with views of the coastline or incredible rainforests.
Gastronomy
Mauritius offers a unique mix of Creole, African, Indian and Chinese cuisines. A Mauritian holiday is incomplete without a romantic candlelit dinner on the beach, allowing couples to savor delicious food and drinks, all while dipping their toes in the sand and soaking in picturesque views of the ocean, under the stars. To experience a slice of Mauritius’ nightlife, couples can also head to rooftop cafes and bars where they can try popular dishes and look at the illuminated city skyline.
Wellness
Mauritius is the ideal destination for couples that want to rejuvenate their senses. The island’s spas offer therapeutic treatments in serene surroundings. Couple choose from an extensive selection of Ayurvedic massages, treatments inspired by the ocean and other Mauritian fusion massages.
Shopping
Port Louis, the island’s capital and largest city is a cultural hub and fantastic venue for shopaholics. Travelers can stroll through the Le Caudan Waterfront and buy eclectic souvenirs you are sure to find something to suit every taste, including some commemorating the famous Mauritian Dodo bird. Shoppers visiting Flacq market can purchase spices, herbal teas and vanilla, while Le Craft market is ideal for handcrafted items.
Mauritius will always be a perfect destination for a romantic holiday with its idyllic and tranquil landscape, even ideal for popping the question or booking a destination wedding.