Mauritius is a place that lingers in your memory long after you’ve left. The island’s charm lies in its incredible diversity—from lush landscapes and turquoise lagoons to its vibrant history and rich culture. Staying at Lagoon Attitude Hotel in Anse la Raie, we found the perfect base to explore this Indian Ocean gem. The hotel’s eco-friendly ethos and serene lagoon views offered a peaceful retreat after our adventures. Here’s a glimpse into our unforgettable journey.
A Glimpse into Mauritius’ History
Mauritius has a captivating past, shaped by explorers, colonists, and diverse cultures. First discovered by Arab sailors around the 10th century, it later appeared on Portuguese maps in the early 1500s. The Dutch arrived in 1598, naming the island after their ruler, Maurice of Nassau. Despite their efforts, the Dutch abandoned Mauritius in the early 18th century, leaving behind sugar cane plants and introducing animals like deer.
The French took control in 1715, renaming the island Île de France, and developed it as a hub for trade and sugar production. This period laid the foundation for the island’s Creole culture. After the British captured Mauritius during the Napoleonic Wars in 1810, it remained under British rule until independence in 1968. Today, Mauritius is a vibrant nation that celebrates its multicultural heritage, with influences from Africa, India, Europe, and China.
Exploring Mauritius: Highlights and Hidden Gems
Chamarel: Nature’s Seven-Coloured Kaleidoscope
Chamarel is one of Mauritius’ most remarkable sites, showcasing its geological and natural splendour. The Seven Coloured Earth, a striking formation of multi-hued sand dunes, is a testament to volcanic activity. The colours—red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple, and yellow—are caused by the cooling of basaltic lava, rich in minerals, with each colour indicating the presence of a different mineral. Interestingly, the sands naturally separate by colour, even when mixed. It is genuinely like nothing you’ve ever seen!
Nearby, the Chamarel Waterfall tumbles over 100 metres into a verdant gorge. It’s the tallest waterfall in Mauritius and is fed by three rivers: St. Denis, Viande Salée, and River des Galets. The surrounding area is amazing for nature enthusiasts, with hiking trails and bird-watching opportunities. When we were there, it was also mating season for the local giant tortoises (from the Seychelles originally) which are helping to increase the population, and you could hear them from miles away!
Chamarel is also home to a rum distillery where visitors can taste locally crafted rums infused with exotic spices. The village offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences, making it a must-visit destination in Mauritius.
Mauritius’ Underwater Waterfall
From the sky, Mauritius offers a truly magical illusion: the underwater waterfall. This optical illusion, created by sand and silt being swept into an underwater canyon, is best appreciated during a helicopter ride. While we didn’t take to the skies this time, even hearing about this unique phenomenon added a sense of wonder to the island’s mysteries.
Black River Gorges National Park
Mauritius’ largest national park, Black River Gorges, offers stunning vistas and a rich tapestry of flora and fauna. The Gorges Viewpoint provided us with breathtaking views of deep valleys, cascading waterfalls, and verdant forests. The park protects many endemic species, including the pink pigeon, once on the brink of extinction, and ebony trees, historically prized for their timber. Hiking through its trails, we felt immersed in the island’s untamed beauty. We also got to see some monkeys up close and personal!
There are also some amazing waterfalls to see, cascading down through the tropical rainforests!
Grand Bassin: Awe Inspiring Statues and a Sacred Space
Grand Bassin (or Ganga Talao) is one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites outside India. This tranquil crater lake is believed to be linked to the Ganges River in India and is surrounded by temples dedicated to Hindu deities. Dominating the area are the towering statues of Lord Shiva and Durga, which stand as symbols of protection and devotion. Visiting during the Maha Shivaratri festival was an extraordinary experience, with thousands of devotees making the journey to offer prayers many walking barefoot from their homes carrying Kanvars (kind of a ritual water-carrier which is decorated and carried on the shoulders). During Shivaratri, around half a million Hindus in Mauritius go on a pilgrimage to the lake!
Île aux Cerfs: A Slice of Island Paradise
Our day-long boat trip, including Île aux Cerfs, was a highlight of our Mauritian adventure. The name Île aux Cerfs translates to “Island of the Deer” in English. The island was named after the deer that once roamed its grounds, which were introduced from Europe. While the deer population is no longer present, the name remains a reminder of the island’s past as a hunting reserve. Today, the island is better known for its idyllic beaches, water sports, and scenic beauty, but the historical significance of its name endures. Located off the east coast, this private island is a tropical haven renowned for its white sandy beaches, lush vegetation, and crystal-clear lagoons. Once a sugar plantation, the island has transformed into a hotspot for relaxation and water-based activities – as well as hosting a golf course.
We began with a leisurely stroll along the beach, where the turquoise waters gently lapped at the shoreline. For those seeking adventure, Île aux Cerfs offers a variety of water sports, including snorkelling, parasailing, and kayaking. We spent time exploring the coral reefs, marvelling at the vibrant marine life just beneath the surface.
For lunch, we indulged in fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant, savouring dishes that combined local flavours with a gourmet touch. Île aux Cerfs perfectly encapsulates the essence of Mauritius: natural beauty, luxurious relaxation, and unforgettable experiences.
Northern Highlights
Pamplemousses Garden (Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden)
The Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, often referred to as Pamplemousses Garden, is a verdant treasure and one of the oldest botanical gardens in the southern hemisphere. Established in 1770 by Pierre Poivre, a French horticulturist and intendant of Mauritius, the garden was originally created to cultivate spices such as nutmeg and clove in an effort to break the Dutch monopoly. Over the centuries, it has evolved into a world-renowned botanical haven, home to an extraordinary collection of flora from across the globe.
The garden’s centrepiece is undoubtedly its giant Amazonian water lilies (they are MASSIVE), whose expansive, platter-like leaves create a mesmerising scene across the pond. Towering palms, including the rare Talipot palm—which blooms only once every 30 to 80 years—add to the garden’s enchanting atmosphere. Beyond its stunning plant life, Pamplemousses Garden is steeped in history. The garden is named after Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, the first Prime Minister of independent Mauritius, whose dedication to the nation is commemorated here with a serene lake and a statue in his honour.
We spent a good few hours wandering the garden’s pathways, taking in the diversity of plant species, from ebony trees to spice gardens, and were greeted by the occasional sight of giant tortoises and other animals grazing peacefully. The blend of natural beauty, rich history, and tranquillity makes Pamplemousses Garden a must-visit destination, offering an unforgettable experience that immerses visitors in the botanical and cultural heritage of Mauritius.
Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice de Cap Malheureux
The striking Red Roof Church at Cap Malheureux was a delightful find and we actually have to thank a local taxi driver who made a detour specifically to take us. Nestled by the sea, this iconic Catholic church offers stunning views of the turquoise ocean and neighbouring islands. It’s also a peaceful spot to reflect and admire the island’s natural beauty. Built in 1938, the Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice Church is famous for its distinctive architecture and picturesque location by the sea. The name “Cap Malheureux” translates to “Cape of Misfortune,” reflecting its history as the site where many ships wrecked before the British seized Mauritius from the French in 1810.
La Cuvette Public Beach
Nestled near Grand Baie, La Cuvette Public Beach is a hidden gem with its calm, crystal-clear waters and secluded charm. Unlike the busier beaches, it offers a peaceful retreat, perfect for a refreshing swim or simply relaxing on the golden sands. Worth a visit if you are open to getting a taxi.
Grand Baie
Grand Baie is a lively coastal town known for its bustling markets, vibrant nightlife, and waterfront dining. Historically, this bay served as an anchorage for trading ships. Today, it’s a hub for leisure and shopping, with boutiques offering local crafts and stylish souvenirs. From here, you can also embark on boat trips to nearby islands. The waterfront is lined with boutique shops, lively bars, and restaurants serving everything from fresh seafood to local delicacies. We had lunch and drinks at a place called The Beach House, which we’d recommend.
Port Louis: Culture and History
Citadelle and Champ de Mars
Overlooking the capital, the Citadelle (Fort Adelaide) is a 19th-century fortress built by the British. It played a key role in maintaining colonial order and offers panoramic views of Port Louis, the harbour, and the surrounding mountains.
Below, the Champ de Mars racetrack is the oldest in the southern hemisphere. Established in 1812, it’s a historic symbol of Mauritian society, drawing crowds for horse racing events that remain a beloved pastime.
Aapravasi Ghat
Another highlight of Port Louis is the Aapravasi Ghat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that tells the story of indentured labourers brought from India to work on sugar plantations. It’s a poignant reminder of Mauritius’ complex history.
Memorable Experiences
Sunset Boat Trip
One of the most magical evenings was spent on a boat trip into the Indian Ocean. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky exploded in shades of orange, pink, and purple. Watching the sun set from the water was a serene and unforgettable things and the tranquillity of the sea and the breathtaking view made this an unforgettable experience. It’s one of our favourite pictures of us!
Sea Kayaking
One of the highlights of our stay at Lagoon Attitude Hotel was renting canoes and setting off on a sea kayaking adventure. Paddling through the calm, turquoise waters of the lagoon was both exhilarating (at times) and peaceful (at others). One thing it is worth saying about the sea in Mauritius is that it is fairly shallow for quite a way out, so even if you fell out you could just walk back! The hotel’s location in Anse la Raie provided the perfect starting point to explore the coastline, with its hidden coves and small, uninhabited islets. The water is crystal clear and we could see colourful fish beneath us, adding to the magic of the experience. It was a wonderful way to connect with nature and take in the island’s beauty from a unique perspective.
Golf at Mont Choisy Golf Course
While Kirsty had a chill day at the hotel, Elliot enjoyed a round at Mont Choisy Golf Course, the only 18-hole championship course in the north. Designed by Peter Matkovich, the course features rolling fairways and stunning views, making it a golfer’s paradise. That said, it was fairly costly to play and also to rent, and being honest the quality of the rental clubs wasn’t great. It might be worth checking out Ile Aux Cerfs Golf Club – which was the other one he was looking at!
Local Rum
Mauritius is famed for its local rum, particularly from Chamarel as mentioned earlier, and we made sure to sample it. With flavours based around vanilla and coconut, the rum was a true reflection of the island’s tropical essence. We even brought home a bottle to relive the taste of paradise.
Mauritian Lychee Wine: A Unique Tasting Experience
One of the unexpected highlights of our trip was a visit to the Takamaka Boutique Winery, the only winery in Mauritius producing lychee-based wines. As we entered, the sweet aroma of lychees filled the air, setting the tone for an unforgettable experience. Surrounded by lush green scenery, the winery offered a tranquil setting to savour their unique creations. We sampled a selection of wines, including a couple of crisp whites, a delicate rosé, and a more robust option, each with differing hints of lychee. The guided tasting provided insights into the winemaking process and the ingenuity behind crafting such distinctive flavours. It was a true testament to the island’s innovation and use of local resources. We are quite in to wine and bought a couple of bottles home, but this is something that is interesting and worth doing even if you’re not super keen – lychee is a bit sweeter than grape wine we would say!
A Stay to Remember
Returning to Lagoon Attitude Hotel each evening was always a delight. Its focus on sustainability—such as banning single-use plastics—made us feel good about our choice. The infinity pool overlooking the lagoon, paired with locally inspired cuisine, was the perfect way to end each day.
A Destination Like No Other
Mauritius is a place where nature, culture, and history come together to create something extraordinary. From the colourful sands of Chamarel to the spiritual serenity of Grand Bassin, and from the bustling streets of Port Louis to the tranquillity of La Cuvette Beach, every corner of the island offers something unique.
Our stay at Lagoon Attitude and experiences like sampling Mauritian lychee wine, witnessing breathtaking sunsets, and delving into the island’s history have left us with memories to cherish forever. Mauritius is not just a destination; it’s a paradise.
