If you let your mind drift off to and take you to your perfect island paradise, even the most creative of imaginations would find it hard to dream up an image that could trump the beauty of Mauritius.
With spectacular volcanic formations canvassed in lush, tropical rainforests, all framed by gleaming white sandy beaches whose shores are caressed by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, this island paradise is truly the stuff of dreams. In fact, Mark Twain once said that, “God created Mauritius first and then paradise was copied after it.”
Thankfully, travelling to this paradise is relatively pain free. Despite a challenging flight time of approximately 12 hours from London, a handful of airlines – British Airways included – fly directly to Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, which cuts out the hassle of stop-overs and multiple flights. Those who don’t mind a bit of stop start when it comes to air travel can take advantage of indirect routes offered by the likes of Emirates. With stop-offs in Dubai, this is an option for those who consider a bit of retail therapy is a part of their ideal holiday.
Mauritius is a peaceful, tropical haven replete with luxurious resorts, fascinating cultural and natural attractions and, last but certainly not least, breathtaking golf courses.
“God created Mauritius first and then paradise was copied after it.” ~ Mark Twain
Although the main attractions for us golfers will no doubt be the courses that lie in wait at the likes of Belle Mare Plage, Le Touessrok and Anahita, the thought of spending your time away from the fairways exploring the island’s many treasures is surely an intoxicating one. From Indian temples and colonial houses to lush tropical gardens and impossibly white sandy beaches, there is something fascinating lying in wait for every intrepid explorer while the opportunity to mingle with the local wildlife, whether its bird spotting, scuba diving into a world of colour beneath the waves or walking with lions – yes you read that correctly – will surely thrill lovers of the natural world.
English is the official language so getting around and experiencing all the island has to offer is easy – French and Creole are also widely spoken which adds a bit of an exotic flavour to an trip here – and with an average yearly temperature of 25 degrees, the climate is ideal as well, with a steady easterly breeze cooling you off during the hottest parts of the day.
Famed for its heavenly beaches, Mauritius is the perfect choice for lovers of sun, sand and surf.
That mixture of nationalities also carries over into the gastronomic side of life in Mauritius. A historic fusion of French, Indian, Creole and Chinese flavours, means that exploring menus in the many excellent restaurants is an endless adventure where you might find dholl puri (traditional Mauritian flatbreads), Chinese Peking duck and a classic French consommé on the same menu. Although there is a never ending list of things to do and see in and around the many 5* resorts, meal times can be the most interesting (and self indulgent) times of the day!
This island paradise sits amid the azures of the Indian Ocean, just 20 degrees South of the Equator, and it can be enjoyed by visiting golfers all year round. The warmest time of the year extends from October to April and while you are almost guaranteed sunshine and soaring temperatures, the odd tropical down pour might also be in the offing! The Mauritian winter, which runs from May to September, still boasts warm temperatures and in the main, it is also the driest time of the year. If it does happen to rain during your holiday, don’t be disheartened; the island has its own microclimate. If it’s raining where you are, the sun could be shining just five minutes away so stay patient if you’re out and about on the island!
In terms of the golfing options, there are plenty of choices in Mauritius and each one is as enticing as the last. Belle Mare Plage boasts two golf courses: The Legend and The Links and both are sure to appeal to golfers of all abilities. The Legend Course is the crowning glory of Belle Mare Plage’s golfing portfolio and undoubtedly the “championship” test on the resort. Flanked by a stunning beach and framed by wildlife-rich tropical forests, the entire course is an intoxicating attack on the senses but the 17th, an island green par 3, is undoubtedly the signature hole on the course.
The 17th on the Legend Course at Belle Mare Plage
A little further South, on the Ile aux Cerfs, lays Le Touessrok. If you like the sound of a golf course only accessible by speedboat, then this is for you! Designed by Bernhard Langer, this stunning course is much more than a pleasant resort style challenge; it is a true test of golf that the better player will undoubtedly revel in. The incredible landscape is brought into play at every opportunity as golfers make their way through lush mangrove forests, past shimmering tidal pools and over volcanic outcrops, all the while being surrounded by the white sandy beaches that frame the Ile aux Cerfs.
Le Touessrok is only accessible by speedboat and offers one of the most unique golf experiences in the world.
Other notable courses include Ernie Els’ Anahita which features numerous shots played towards greens perched seemingly on the edge of the world. Golf Du Chateau can be enjoyed by those visiting the South of the island while Tamarina (more on this later), one of the most demanding courses on the island, awaits those making their way to the famous East coast of Mauritius. All of Mauritius’ golf courses are undeniably beautiful and with a variety of difficulty offered at each one, golfers of all abilities are sure find something that suits their game down to a tee.
Built in accordance with USGA construction principles, the Els course is a marvel of modern golf course design, blending seamlessly with the natural terrain.
I said previously that we’d revisit Tamarina and for one very good reason. Those staying at this fantastic resort receive complimentary access to the amazing Casela Nature and Leisure Park where, for about £80, you can enjoy an afternoon strolling through the park with young lions for company. The Walking with Lions activity (there are also interactions with big cats including cheetahs) is an absolute must and an insight into the adventures to be enjoyed away from the fairways while on a golf holiday in Mauritius.
Walking with Lions at the Casela Nature and Leisure Park is a wonderful experience; one of many to be enjoyed at the Park which is a great place to head on a day away from the fairways.
