Mauritius is an island in the Indian Ocean synonymous with turquoise sea, lagoons protected by the coral reef and white sand beaches fringed with casuarina trees. Volcanic and lush, it alternates paradisiacal coasts with a mountainous green interior, where sugar-cane plantations, forests and waterfalls trace spectacular landscapes. The capital Port Louis pulses with colourful markets, its waterfront and a melting pot of Creole, Indian, Chinese and European cultures reflected in its cuisine and festivals. Among the unmissable sites stand out the seven-coloured earths of Chamarel with its waterfall, the Black River Gorges plateau with its trails, and the sacred village of Grand Bassin with its Hindu temples overlooking a volcanic lake. At the south-western tip rises the Le Morne Brabant peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, symbol of the memory of runaway slaves; in Port Louis the Aapravasi Ghat, where indentured labourers disembarked, is also recognised by UNESCO. The lagoons of Belle Mare, Flic en Flac and Trou aux Biches invite snorkelling, diving and water sports, while the botanical gardens of Pamplemousses enchant with their giant water lilies. Mauritian cuisine, fragrant with spices, blends curries, samosas and fresh fish in an explosion of flavours. Between relaxation, nature and warm hospitality, Mauritius is the very portrait of the tropical dream.
