Rhythm of mauRitius

Relax and rejuvenate in mauritius, the indian ocean isle where centuries of colliding cultures have produced a vibrant landscape that’s made for tropical beach escapes.

it doesn’t take long to realise there’s much more to mauritius than tropical clichés, although a beach, a palm tree and a rum cocktail are never far off in this indian ocean gem. the Creole rhythm of its french-, african- and indian-infused culture underscores all aspects of life, from the vibrant cuisine, heady with spices, to the buzzing markets laden with exotic textiles, jewellery and trinkets and, of course, its energetic sega dance.

Europeans and south africans have long counted mauritius among their most popular beach destinations, with australians now realising how close it is – just an eight-hour flight from Perth.

Barefoot gourmet Luxury resorts are spread across mauritius, from the quiet south to the sun-drenched northeast. Constance Belle mare Plage first opened in 1975 with just 10 self-catering bungalows; now it is one of the island’s most prestigious resorts, offering barefoot relaxation along two kilometres of private palm-fringed beach. thatched-roof rooms and suites, 278 in total, bring a breezy feel to the accommodation, recently updated for a new wave of modern travellers. With seven restaurants and bars, including a showcase of local cuisine in Deer hunter, Constance Belle mare Plage prides itself on its gourmet offerings, and each year plays host to the festival Culinaire Bernard Loiseau, with the 12th edition of the gastronomic celebration set to take place between 23 march and 2 april 2017. Golfers will be attracted by the two 18-hold championship courses, the Links and the Legend, which first put mauritius on the map as a golfing destination when it opened in 1994.

island high society although located less than 10 kilometres away in the same region of Poste de flacq, Constance Le Prince maurice could hardly be further in its philosophy. Where the former exudes rustic charm, her sister resort, a member of the Leading hotels of the World, is the epitome of refined island style, with 89 suites and villas spread across a 60-hectare enclave. a sheltered bay sets the tone for a calming stay distinguished by rejuvenation at u spa by Constance – the only one of the seven-strong portfolio to offer the sisley treatment collection and sumptuous dining over the water at Le Barachois or overlooking the pool at archipel, home to a 15,000-bottle wine cellar. of all the resort’s spacious accommodations, decorated with silks and polished wood accents, the Princely Villa is the height of mauritian luxury, with two private pools and three ocean-facing terraces spread over 350 square metres.

for the ultimate island journey, combine stays at both resorts to truly discover all the mauritius has to offer.

travel file Information www.tourism-mauritius.mu Accommodation www.constancehotels.com Getting there

air mauritius flies between Perth and mauritius’ international airport, with onward connections to London heathrow, south africa and Kenya for Europe- or safari-bound travellers looking for a tropical stopover destination. www.airmauritius.com