Mark Twain famously wrote, “You gather the idea Mauritius was made first, and then heaven.” The American writer penned this after his 1896 visit to this Indian Ocean gem. Over a century later, Twain’s observation remains undeniable, and the rest of the world is finally catching on to what might be the planet's most complete tropical sanctuary.

For the curious traveller, Mauritius offers a rare synthesis of luxury, culture, and dramatic topography, along with world-class golf courses. The island’s cultural tapestry is beautifully woven from Indian, French, Chinese, and African influences.

Golf Journeys has partnered with Kreola Travel to unlock exclusive, insider access to this extraordinary destination. For more than ten years, local experts Isla Decasanove and Valerie Rousetty have designed immersive itineraries for discerning adventurers. As we curate the ultimate golf tour, Isla and Valerie reveal their secrets to navigating a vibrant island where breathtaking landscapes, deep cultural heritage, and warm hospitality unite to create the journey of a lifetime.

The Fairways of Heaven

Nowhere is the natural grandeur of the country better realised than at Anahita, an Ernie Els masterpiece. Built over a one-time sugar plantation on the island’s scenic east coast, this championship layout is an architectural marvel. The challenging hole routings seamlessly move through exotic trees, wind past ancient stone walls, and hug the ocean’s edge.

Beyond the pristine fairways, Mauritius transitions into a true water wonderland. Boasting 330 kilometres of spectacular coastline enveloped by coral reefs and 49 sparkling inlets, visitors can snorkel, paddleboard, kayak with dolphins, or float across more than 100 world-class diving sites.

Five Regions, Countless Secrets

Isla who grew up amid the sweet scent of sugar mills and blooming cane fields, notes that Mauritius is far more than a typical tropical escape, “It is a vibrant tapestry of cultures where the depth of history and the genuine warmth of the people create a soulful experience.” To truly understand it, you must explore its five distinct regions.

Valerie, who was raised in Curepipe on the Central Plateau, remembers a childhood of cooler temperatures, misty mornings, and a completely different world from the coast. "Our Sunday family trips to the beach by bus were magical," Valerie recalls. "The journey from the cool highlands down to the coast transformed from forests to palm trees, revealing that first thrilling glimpse of the sea."

The other four regions offer equally distinct flavours:

• The North: Pulses with energy and nightlife in Grand Baie, a favourite weekend spot for locals, and features the iconic red-roofed church at Cap Malheureux.
• The East: Home to championship golf courses, promises quiet, luxury escapes along long, white, peaceful beaches where trade winds blow and the incredible shades of blue look almost unreal.
• The South: Mauritius in its rawest form—a wild, rugged coastline with dramatic cliffs where the Indian Ocean crashes against the rocks, hiding waterfalls, forests, and tea plantations.
• The West: Enjoys the warmest weather, offering romantic sunsets, calm lagoons perfect for dolphin watching, and the proud silhouette of Le Morne Brabant in the background.

A Paradise for the Senses

Mauritians are incredibly passionate about food, and some of the island's best meals are enjoyed standing on a street corner alongside the locals. You haven’t truly visited until you’ve stood by a roadside stall eating a hot Dholl Puri—the undisputed king of street food. Both Isla and Valerie champion this national dish: a soft, thin flatbread filled with finely ground yellow split peas, stuffed with savory butter bean curry, tomato chutney, and spicy chili paste.

For a sweet afternoon treat, pair a warm local coffee with a traditional napolitaine shortbread at a beachfront café overlooking the lagoon. Later, seek out a Table d’Hôte experience. This hidden gem allows visitors to be welcomed into a local home to share an authentic, home-cooked meal with a Mauritian family, exchanging stories and traditions across the dinner table.

As the sun dips, Isla recommends a visit to a public beach to enjoy the rhythmic beats of Sega music, sharing a picnic of gateaux piments (chili bites) and a cold Phoenix beer.

Vistas, Heritage, and Island Character

For panoramic vistas, hike Le Pouce Mountain for a rewarding view over the capital, or tackle Valerie's favourite trek: Le Morne Brabant. "It is a journey through one of our most iconic landscapes," Valerie says. "At the summit, you’re rewarded with unforgettable views, but it also carries a powerful historical significance that combines adventure with heritage."

Wrap up your journey at the bustling Port Louis Central Market to score beautiful souvenirs. The market is full of colour, energy, and local character. Both ladies recommend bringing home locally made woven baskets and bags, cashmere and pashmina scarves, handcrafted jewellery, vanilla tea, artisanal rum, Mauritian spices, and handmade soaps infused with frangipani or coconut.

Isla highlights that before leaving, you'll surely notice the island's unique road etiquette. As the old local joke goes: "We don't drive on the left, and we don't drive on the right—we drive in the middle, and we’ve been doing it that way since Independence!"

Yet no matter what the roads or the days bring, the local perspective remains beautifully captured by Isla’s favourite Creole phrase: Manze ar li:” Hold your ground, stay courageous, and persevere through the thick of it. “ This could definitely be useful on the back nine at Anahita Golf Course.

Snapshot History: The Dutch established the first small colony here in 1638, naming the island after Prince Maurice of Nassau. Abandoned in 1710, the French took control in 1715, renaming it Île de France. The British later captured it in 1810 during the Napoleonic Wars. Mauritius finally achieved independence in 1968, yielding today’s multilingual society fluent in English, French, and Mauritian Creole.

Phrases for the Fairway & Beyond

• Alo – Hello
• Extra bon – It’s super good!
• Tou korek! – Everything is good! All is fine.
• No problem: Because everything 'is possible' for Mauritians - they go out of their way to please their guests and visitors.

Golf Journeys, in partnership with Kreola Travel, have crafted the ultimate Mauritius escape in May 2027. This tour will sell out fast, so don’t sip too slowly on your Ti’ Punch cocktail; enquire about it now.

‍