Mauritius has for a long time been known as an exceptional island holiday destination. Not only does it offer the coastal paradises that we most readily associate with such places, but there is much more to this island nation. Travel a short distance inland, for example, and you will reach the stunning central plateau of the island. This region offers breathtaking views, much distinct flora, and sparkling rivers that flow through the cracks in rocks left by lava flows. But inland isn’t the only way you can go. Although dominated by a main island, the territory of Mauritius actually contains several other islands, the biggest of which are Rodrigues, Agalega, and St Brandon. As with many other island nations, the more adventurous tourist is increasingly looking to the possibility of exploring these nearby islands, and venturing a little beyond the main resorts.
How to Go Island-Hopping
Island-hopping is becoming an increasingly popular activity on Mauritius. Part of the reason is that it’s not terribly difficult to do. The waters around Mauritius are dominated by one of the world’s largest coral reefs and are usually idyllically calm. As such many island hoppers take several means of the travel, from small speedboats to luxury catamarans, in order to explore these next-door paradises. But where can you go?
ÃŽle Plate
With Mauritius such a hot holiday destination these days, it’s truly remarkable that for the ‘bother’ of a short 30-minute ride by catamaran from Grand Baie, you can find yourself in a secluded paradise. ÃŽle Plate, or ‘flat island’, is the perfect spot for snorkelling or diving, with crystal clear waters surrounding it on all sides. On your journey to ÃŽle Plate, you’re also sure to notice the small nature reserve of Coin de Mire situated about halfway there. Here you can explore more inland delights, with flora and fauna as unique as they are stunning.
Le Morne
Another easily reachable island – Le Morne – offers something a bit more on the beaten track than ÃŽle Plate. Whereas that island was named after its rather uniform topography, Le Morne is dominated by a massive mountain that is visible for miles around. The island also plays host to a range of boutique hotels, so it offers the chance to explore without leaving luxury behind. Le Morne also provides a real range of activities – everything from beating your way up the mountain to relaxing on its perfect beaches. Le Morne is a great all-rounder. Yet not everywhere on Le Morne is bustling, which brings us to…
Baie du Cap
Baie du Cap can be found just a short drive down the coast from the busier areas of La Morne, yet it could not be more different in tone. Proving that you do not actually need to take to the seas to discover something new in Mauritius, Baie du Cap is secluded and frequented mainly by locals. If you want to see a piece of real Mauritius without leaving behind the stunning seafront locations for which the whole country is famous, then Baie du Cap is definitely the place to go.
Further Afield
One of the most interesting facts about this small island nation in the middle of the Indian Ocean is that it is not alone in this ‘neighbourhood’. Mauritius is part of the Mascarenes islands and is a close neighbour of the beautiful island of Reunion. Actually a part of France, there’s no need to worry about a visa to visit Reunion and its bustling capital of Saint Denis. You can get there by overnight ferry, making it ideal for a daytrip or an overnight stay.
