Located off the eastern coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean, the idyllic island of Mauritius is a remarkably romantic holiday destination. While it's renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, gorgeous powder-white sand beaches, and a wonderful tropical climate, the island offers much more. Those who venture inland will discover lush, jungle-clad mountains, glistening blue lagoons, impressive rivers and waterfalls, extinct volcanic craters, charming little ramshackle towns and villages, and wonderfully friendly locals. Must-see attractions include the bustling capital of Port Louis with its lively local markets; the remarkable 85 metre-high Chamarel Waterfall; and Eureka, a historic plantation mansion turned museum offering visitors a glimpse into the island's colonial past.
Once a sleepy little fishing village, Grand Baie (Grand Bay) has developed into a thriving tourist town on the north coast of the island of Mauritius. This popular resort serves as a convenient base for travellers exploring the rest of the island, offering a number of designer boutiques, fine restaurants, beach bars and nightclubs. Aside from relaxing on the exquisite white-sand beaches of the bay, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including swimming, scuba diving, sailing, water-skiing, deep-sea fishing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, parasailing and even submarine excursions. A spectacular range of marine animals inhabits the crystal-clear waters here.
