Mauritius - Indian Ocean Paradise

Travelguru Cathy Bartrop says:

Mauritius really does live up to its reputation of being an island paradise. I visited many of the hotels for filming and was truly impressed by not only the variety of property styles but the consistently high standards of food, service and facilities. Mauritius is not a cheap holiday option but you will not be disappointed particularly if you enjoy golf and watersports.

Make the effort to discover more of the island and you will be surprised by the contrasts of the coast and interior and variety of attractions.

MAURITIUS - the paradise island

From the 16th century, the island served as a vital landfall for traders, and its influences include Europe, Africa, China and India. This translates today into a fascinating multicultural society - evident in the mix of religions, architectural styles, varied cuisine and of course, the people themselves. Explore temples, mosques and markets, or enjoy some wonderful diving and jungle trekking.

The island is renowned for its extremely high standard of hotels. There are world class resorts here, much favoured by celebrities, but there are also great value hotels. Two and three star properties are often overshadowed by the big name groups but punch well above their weight and will not disappoint. And of course, wherever you choose to stay you have some of the world's most stunning beaches right on your doorstep.

NORTH COAST

Home to Grand Baie, the only resort style town in Mauritius, with plenty to keep you busy in the evenings. Most tourists head for Trou Aux Biches, which offers white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters. Transfer time from airport, approx 1hr 15 min.

• Les Cocotiers - 2* - 7 nights half board from £799pp
• Coin de Mire - 2*+ - 7 nights half board from £799pp
• Le Palmiste - 3* - 10 nights all inclusive from £995pp
• Casuarina Resort & Spa 3*+ - 14 nights all inclusive from £1199pp 3rd week FREE on room only

EAST COAST

Synonymous with some of the island's premier resorts. More isolated and spread-out then other areas of the island, resorts are positioned on their own stretch of secluded beach. Transfer from airport approx 1 hour.

• Silver Beach - 3* - 10 nights all inclusive from £999pp
• Hotel Ambre - 4*+ - 10 nights all inclusive from £1099pp
• Bougainville Hotel - 3* - 10 nights all inclusive from £995pp
• Le Tropical - 3* - 7 nights all inclusive from £899pp

SOUTH EAST COAST

More rugged then other parts of the island, with spectacular waterfalls and the Black River Gorges National Park, home to the largest forest on the island. The south is also the perfect home for water sports such as windsurfing and sailing. Transfer from airport approx 40 mins.

• Blue Lagoon Beach Hotel - 3* - 10 nights all inclusive from £999pp

SOUTH WEST COAST

The beaches at Flic en Flac and La Morne provide excellent windsurfing, water-skiing, snorkelling and diving. La Morne is more isolated and has developed as an upmarket tourist destination. Containing areas of great beauty with wild mountains and what remains of its indigenous forests. Transfer from airport approx 1 hour.

• Pearle Beach Resort - 4* - 10 nights all inclusive from £1099pp
• The Indian Resort & Spa - 4*+ - 7 nights half board from £995pp