Why Mauritius is perfect for your romantic escape

Looking like a long-lost relative of the Caribbean, Mauritius is an island paradise in its own right. Located off the coast of east Africa, this tiny country has 330 kilometres of white, sandy beaches caressed by the blissfully warm waters of the Indian Ocean.

Whether you’re looking for a fabulous honeymoon destination or a carefree, relaxing escape for you and your partner, head to Mauritius for an unforgettable romantic getaway.

Beach hopping is a great way to enjoy this gorgeous island, and there’s plenty of choice. Grand Baie, Belle Mare and Tamarin are all home to fine stretches of sand, with beach clubs and plenty of space to sunbathe. There are also water sports and paragliding if you’re both feeling a little more adventurous or hop aboard a speedboat tour or cruise to the Ile aux Cerfs, a small island just off Mauritius’ east coast, with its own picture-postcard beaches, an 18-hole golf course and fantastic snorkelling spots.

If you want to get a greater insight into everyday Mauritian life, head to Port Louis. This ex-colonial capital retains some of its French influence but feels like a melting pot, with splashes of India, Europe and Africa. Visit sights such as the Jummah Mosque and the Blue Penny Museum – dedicated to Mauritian culture and art – or sit on one of the waterfront terraces and sip cocktails as you watch the ships come in to dock.

Perched on the powder-like sands of Le Morne Beach on the south-western side of the island, the luxury resort of St. Regis Mauritius is a perfect place for couples to unwind. This colonial-inspired five-star features a large swimming pool with sunbeds and cabanas aplenty, easy access to the beach, and the Iridium Spa with superb wellness packages and treatments including a jet-lag recovery massage and anti-ageing UV repair.

You won’t go hungry at St. Regis either, with its five restaurants influenced variously by the gastronomy of Mauritius, South-east Asia and Japan. Private dining is also available in exclusive rooms and on the beach and jetty. The hotel’s airy suites come with simple but stylish décor and private terraces or balconies. Some are ocean-facing, and some are also set on the beachfront itself, with the UNESCO World Heritage Le Morne Mountain as a backdrop for the perfect selfie!

St. Regis is perfectly placed for exploring Mauritius as a couple, close to some of the island’s top sights including Black River Gorges National Park with its rolling hills, dense forest and hiking trails, and natural phenomena the Seven Coloured Earths – an area of red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple and yellow sand dunes – at Chamarel.