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36 maltatoday, TRAVEL SUNDAY, 1 SEPTEMBER 2013 Mauritius – the land of sugar and smiles LYING in the Indian Ocean, some 1,800 kilometres off the east coast of Africa, Mauritius is an outstandingly beautiful tropical island. Its 330-kilometre coastline of sandy beaches is almost entirely surrounded by the largest unbroken coral reefs in the world, home to more than a thousand species of fish. Mauritius fulfils every visitor's dream of a tropical island – swaying palms, a dazzling blue ocean, white sandy beaches, sugarcane fields, towering mountains and the leisurely Mauritian way of life all contribute to a truly idyllic setting. Why go? Almost every inch of the coast of Mauritius, made famous by a stamp said by collectors to be among the most valuable in the world, is covered in white sand and turquoise seas that remain between 20 and 25°C all year long. The coral reefs that surround the island not only protect divers and swimmers from currents and rough seas, but are also home to myriad marine species, making diving, or just snorkelling, a real treat on the holiday island. What to do? Take a walk up to the Trou aux Cerfs for the best views on the island. The volcano, which was active millions of years ago, is now extinct and is choked with silt, water and dense vegetation. Though it is possible to scramble down the sides of the crater, 300 metres in diameter, to the lake below, cau- The Black River Gorges National Park is home to the pink pigeon, a species of bird unique to Mauritius that has slowly come back from the brink of extinction The white, sandy beaches of Mauritius are protected by coral reefs, ensuring still, warm waters throughout the year Cycle around the Balaclava Ruins for a more historical take on Mauritius tion is strongly advised. To the west catch a glimpse of Rempart Mountain, flanked to the right by the three peaks of Trois Mamelles, the 'three beasts'. Other mountains rise and fall around the crater like papier mâché replicas dumped on the landscape by a child. Whether you're driving, taking a bus or going for a walk, the Black River Gorges National Park is not to be missed. The only national park in Mauritius is covered in a spectacularly wild expanse of thick forest covering 3.5% of the island's surface and home to over 300 species of flowering plants and nine species of bird unique to Mauritius, including the pink pigeon, which is making a comeback from the brink of extinction. A network of hiking trails crosses the empty Black River Gorges National park, and though maps are available it is best to check the current status of the trails before setting off at the visitors' centre. Check out the picture-postcard scenery of the north of the island aboard a luxury catamaran and experience the thrill of sailing on the turquoise blue waters of the Indian Ocean. Visit the La Palisades, the sheltered part of the Flat Island and the protected side of Gunner's Quoin Island, where there are great snorkelling opportunities for marine life enthusiasts and pure white sands for sun worshippers. Mauritius is not all sun, sea, sand and nature walks. Take a trip to the Balaclava Ruins for a more histori- cal perspective of the island. Just a few metres away from Turtle Bay lie the ruins of the first fort built in the 1700s under French rule. Rent a bicycle and explore the fort from the inside. Just remember to obtain permission before entering the old ruins. Check out the Emirates Holidays South Scenic Excursion, including a trip to Curepipe and Trou aux Cerfs, to the Grand Bassin, a lake inside a volcano crater, the Chamarel 90-metre-high waterfalls and Black River Gorges National Park, among others. If you'd rather stay close to the sea check out their catamaran cruise and sail to Les Palisades Bay at Flat Island and Gunner's Quoin. Swim and snorkel with a multitude of tropical fish. Where to stay? Exclusivity and privacy are the hallmarks of The Oberoi Mauritius (http://www.oberoihotels. com/oberoi_mauritius), with 71 luxury pavilions and private villas. A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, The Oberoi offers a truly unique experience, with an extraordinary fusion of the rustic charm of a Mauritian village with Asian and African influences. Dining in the hotel is unique, with a mix of gourmet French cuisine, a touch of Mediterranean flavour and Indian and Creole savoury dishes made to order. The Oberoi Spa at the resort is a haven of tranquility and relaxation offering a range of therapies based on natural products and traditional techniques, which include Ayurveda and aromatherapy. Le Touesserok, www.letouesserok.com, lies on a picturesque stretch of sandy coast overlooking the Trou d'Eau Douce Bay. Out in the lagoon are two beautiful islands, including Ile aux Cerfs, with its spectacular 18-hole championship golf course. The resort offers extensive water sports, land-based activities and a renowned Givenchy spa for relaxation. The resort also features three spectacular waterfront villas, which offer ultra-exclusive and spacious accommodation, using the latest technology to meet the high expectations of the most discerning guests. Over 12 hectares of tropical gardens and plantation-style architecture and over half a kilometre of sandy beaches, the Sugar Beach Resort, www.sugarbeachresort. com, is in an old Manor house and also includes 16 luxury villas, 10 of which have 12 rooms, while the remaining six have 10 rooms each. Where to eat? Offering colonial style atmosphere, overlooking the historical Ruins of Balaclava, the River Citron and the dreamful Turtle Bay and surrounded by an equestrian centre, the Château Mon Désir restaurant offers the best in fine dining. Served in a beautiful tropical estate, classical elements and modern influence of French cuisine meet the Mauritian spirit in a unique blend of tastes. The Hidden Reef is a quaint restaurant set in a tranquil and romantic garden atmosphere with a warm and welcoming ambiance. A balanced menu ensures a great dining experience, whatever your taste – be it wholesome meat dishes or more delicate seafood dishes. There is excellent wines at great value to accompany any selection. La Terrasse is family-owned and traditional recipes are handed down with much skill. La Terrasse is situated beside the sea and specialises in Mauritian, Creole, European and Chinese cuisine. It offers a cosy and intimate dining experience for very affordable prices. How to get there? Emirates offers daily services to Mauritius with a stopover in Dubai. Flights departing from Malta on 12 September and returning on 26 September were priced at €1,074.61 (including tax). The total flying time is approximately 14.5 hours. Take a trip to the top of the Trou aux Cerfs, an extinct volcano, clogged with silt, water and thick vegetation