Lifes a Beach
The Seychelles (and, to a lesser extent, Mauritius) is home to perhaps the sexiest beaches in the world. Theyre so consistently perfect that its hard not to become blas about them. Theres nothing better to do than spend days under the bright tropical sun on the beach, swinging in hammocks, splashing in the sea and sipping a cocktail. Even Runion, which doesnt fit the clich of a sun-soaked Edenic paradise, has a few good stretches of sand.
From Beach to Adventure
Believe it or not, a day will come during your stay when you decide youve had enough with the beach lounging. Mauritius, Rodrigues, Runion and the Seychelles arent just about pampering and relaxation; when it comes to recharging adrenaline levels, they have big surprises up their sleeves. Hike the footpaths that criss-cross the islands, ranging from meandering trails to trudges up mountains; scuba dive in enticing warm waters, marvelling at more than 300 species of fish (and the odd shipwreck or two); catch the wind and waves on a kiteboard; take a boat tour; explore magnetic canyons; or discover the countryside on horseback.
To Luxe or Not to Luxe
Its hardly surprising that the Seychelles and Mauritius are choice destinations for honeymooners: here the worlds most exclusive hotels compete with each other to attain ever-greater heights of luxury, from personal butlers and private lap pools to in-room massages and pillow menus not to mention sensuous spas. But if this is not in your budget, dont let that dissuade you from buying a ticket to these destinations. Small, family-run hotels, bed and breakfasts and self-catering establishments offer a closer-to-the-culture experience at prices that wont require you to re-mortgage the house.
Cultural Gems
The biggest mistake anyone could make would be to assume that these islands are for beach holidays, nature and adrenaline only theres so much more to each destination that any trip will be an unforgettable and exciting experience, whether it be exploring Mauritius fascinating colonial past in its myriad mansions or museums, attending a music festival or a fire-walking ceremony, visiting an old sugar factory or a restored Creole villa, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of a picturesque village.
Anse Source dArgent (), Seychelles
JEAN-PIERRE LESCOURRET / GETTY IMAGES
Why I Love Mauritius, Runion Seychelles
By Jean-Bernard Carillet, Author
On my first trip to Mauritius, I was blown away by the wealth of religious buildings and the rich Indian cultural heritage. On Rodrigues, Ill never forget the sensational dives in La Passe St Franois. On subsequent trips I did plenty of hiking in Runion, including a memorable week across Cirque de Mafate. The Seychelles? After four trips there, I confess I have a soft spot for La Digue, because life is so unhurried on this tiny island, its affordable and the beaches are just incredible. My favourite is Anse Cocos. See you there!
See for much more.
Mauritius, Runion Seychelles Top 17
JEAN BERNARD CARILLET
Perhaps the finest set of multiday hikes anywhere in the Indian Ocean, Cirque de Mafate () feels like youre traversing the end of the earth. Wild and remote, watched over by fortress-like ridges and riven with deep valleys, this is an extraordinary experience. A four-day hike through the Haut Mafate can be combined with the four-day, even-more-secluded Bas Mafate. Best of all, these hikes take you through quiet mountain hamlets where youll find