Why Mauritius is the best for romantic holidays
Mauritius is a gem in the Indian Ocean that provides the perfect destination for couples who just want to get away from it all on a relaxing, luxurious break. The white sand beaches are one of its top selling points, but there are other reasons to visit.
In fact, the stunning scenery, warm temperatures and high-end resorts on the island make it a favourite choice for honeymoons and even weddings, so it should come as no surprise that it's a great option if romance is on your mind.
Here are just a few of the things that make Mauritius holidays with your loved one extra special:
Luxury accommodation
There is a selection of luxury hotels on Mauritius for you to choose from, with many boasting their own onsite spas to help you forget about the stresses and strains of daily life. The wellness culture on the island is strong, with establishments offering everything from Ayurvedic massages to treatments based on traditional African or Creole remedies.
For the ultimate pamper day with your partner, book a couple's session at a spa and enjoy the facilities together. Some of the centres have outdoor treatment areas, so you can unwind on the beach or surround yourself with a tropical garden. You'll probably never have another massage in such a scenic setting.
Beautiful beaches
One of the major reasons why Mauritius has become so popular among all kinds of holidaymakers, not just couples, is its stunning coastline. There are kilometres of white sand beaches stretching along its shores and with temperatures between 17 and 33 degrees C, as well as plenty of sunshine, they are the ideal places to relax.
Most of the island's coast is surrounded by a coral reef barrier, ensuring the waters are usually sheltered and calm. The only exception is in the south, where the landscape is a bit more rugged and home to towering cliffs. Here, you can stroll along Gris Gris beach together and watch the waves break against the shore - an impressive sight and a nice contrast to the rest of the isle's beaches that have a much calmer atmosphere.
Amazing landscapes
While it might be tempting to spend your entire romantic break lounging on one of the beaches with your partner, indulging in fruit cocktails and other treats, it would be a shame not to explore some of Mauritius's interior landscapes.
The island was created by volcanic activity and the extinct craters can still be seen if you travel inland, along with lush forest and mountain lakes. For a change of scenery - and to see some of the flora and fauna that was once abundant in Mauritius - visit Ile aux Aigrettes, a nature reserve in the south of the island. Ebony trees and rare orchids are among the plants located here, while the pink pigeon is an endangered bird you should certainly keep an eye open for.
Delicious cuisine
No romantic holiday would be complete without at least one candlelit dinner for two and you won't be short of fantastic eateries when you book a break in Mauritius. Many of the top hotels have excellent chefs who offer innovative menus, as well as meals served in stunning surroundings. Make sure you sample some of the local dishes before you leave, though, as it really is a feast for the senses, with influences coming from Chinese, Indian, European and Creole cultures.
