Mauritius: A luxurious family paradise
I was grateful to be invited on a recent ‘fam’ (familiarisation) trip, organised by dnata and the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority. The purpose was to explore and review top-tier resorts and family-friendly activities.
We stayed 4 nights at 3 different properties. We also had the opportunity to carry out site inspections at the Four Seasons, Long Beach, The Residence and La Pirogue. I’m well-positioned to give you a review of each of these, depending on your preferred hotel style, location and budget.
La Plantation d’Albion Club Med: The welcome from the team was quite special, greeting us with champagne on arrival. It’s a luxurious all-inclusive resort known for its spacious accommodations, lush tropical gardens, and stunning ocean views. The resort offers a wide range of activities, from watersports to golf, making it perfect for families. The kids' club and dedicated family areas ensure that everyone has something to enjoy, while the adults-only zen zone provides a peaceful retreat.
Sugar Beach: Sugar Beach is a lively and stylish resort, perfectly blending modern comfort with Mauritian hospitality. The resort’s vibrant atmosphere is complemented by its prime location along the stunning Flic en Flac beach, one of the best on the island. We enjoyed some great dining experiences at the Buddha Bar, where the vibe was unmatched, and enjoyed ‘easy sips’ by the pool. ‘Easysips’ is a lovely concept where the group enjoy non-alcoholic options together first, before going into the cocktails. Their drinks selection is one of the best I’ve ever seen. The resort's relaxed yet energetic ambience, along with its variety of amenities, makes it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and entertainment.
Maradiva Villas: The epitome of luxury and exclusivity. This resort offers private, spacious villas, each with its own pool, surrounded by lush tropical gardens. The ambience is tranquil and serene, perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape. The service is impeccable, and the resort's commitment to personalised experiences makes every guest feel like a VIP. Maradiva is the ultimate in luxury, offering a secluded and intimate environment that is perfect for unwinding and recharging.
The range of activities in Mauritius, both urban and rural, is impressive. Our first morning was spent exploring Port Louis on a street food tour with Taste Buddies. Ashvin, our guide, shared the island's rich history through humour and storytelling while we indulged in local delicacies like dholl roti and Napolitaine. We also visited the mosque, Chinatown, and the lush Les Jardins De La Compagnie.
The next experience was an unforgettable helicopter ride across the island, offering breathtaking views, including the famous ‘underwater’ waterfall. At Chamarel, the stunning waterfall and the seven-coloured earth geopark were highlights, especially for a geography enthusiast like me. For those less keen on geology, the café and tortoise observation area provide a delightful alternative.
La Vallée des Couleurs offers thrilling adventures like the 1.5km zipline, the longest in the Indian Ocean, perfect for both kids and adults. At Casela Nature Park, we enjoyed close encounters with wildlife, a thrilling ride on the Tulawaka Gold coaster, and a peaceful lunch surrounded by peacocks.
Overall, Mauritius is just a stunning country with a great selection of luxury hotels to choose from. Fun for all the family and so easy to get around. The weather in July and August is beautiful.
Mauritius has it all and is perfect for families seeking luxury and adventure. I can help you craft the perfect itinerary. Contact me today to start planning your dream vacation to this tropical paradise!
