PLUS there's sun-drenched coastlines, waterfalls and gourmet food galore....
If you're looking for a perfect beach getaway to an Indian Ocean paradise, Shangri-La's Le Tousserok resort and spa really does have it all.
Surrounded by pristine turquoise waters and idyllic white sandy beaches, there are three separate beaches around the resort, which spans 34 acres and two pools, so you'll be spoilt for choice on where to curl up with your favourite book.
Mauritius is well known for its mountainous green landscape and year-round sunshine. It's a particularly popular winter sun destination, but even if you visit in during low season you can still expect balmy temperatures in the mid-twenties, making it the ideal holiday for sun-worshippers.
Where to stay
Shangri-La’s Le Tousserok, a luxury five-star resort and spa, is nestled on the East coast of the island. The beautiful rooms have recently been refurbished to the highest standards and there are lots on offer, from the decadent exclusive villas where you can have a private chef look after you, to the Hibiscus Beach Access rooms (which is where we stayed) that allow you to step out from your bed straight onto the beach.
Rooms start from approx. £283 per night on a bed and breakfast basis. To book, visit shangri-la.com/mauritius/shangrila, or call 0800 028 3337.
Where to eat
If you're a foodie you'll be spoilt for choice. There are five restaurants in resort: La Bazaar which offers an innovate blend of Asian and international cuisine that's perfect for families.
Kushi is for the fish fans our there, where the dedicated on-site sushi master creates speciality dishes or you can grill your supper yourself at the table for a fun-filled experience; while Safran blends Indian influences with Mauritian classics in a rustic domed restaurant that is open to the elements so you can sit back and enjoy the warm evenings.
Or if it's a chilled BBQ and cocktail night you're lusting after, head to Le Republik Beach Club that offers an array of hand-mixed drinks as well as pastas, wood-fired pizzas and hearty grills.
What to pack
Year round sunshine means you’ll likely be spending the majority of your time in a bikini. When you’re not, you’ll want something lightweight like a printed cotton dress or a simple blouse. Pair with a statement headscarf for instant style points.
Must do
Hop on a boat over to Ilot Mangenie, a private island just a ten-minute ride away from Le Tousserok and tuck into fresh, locally caught seafood at one of the sellout BBQ nights or try their speciality stone-baked truffle pizza.
If you’re feeling adventurous take a day-trip to the jaw-dropping Black River Gorges National Park. The rolling terrain is perfect for walkers and the viewpoint is the best place to admire the luscious green forests that cover the mountainous landscape.
Treat yourself
When you want to take your chill to the next level, book yourself into the Chi Spa. There's everything you'd expect from a 5-star resort from deep tissue to hot stone massages, prescription facials and more unusual ayurvedic therapies such as Udwarthanam which involves powdered herbs being massaged into skin to reduce cellulite and improve digestion.
Things to do
If an activity packed holiday is what you're craving Le Tousserok offers a whole range of watersports from kayaking, to stand-up paddle boarding, jet skiing to waterskiing and pedalos all available from the main beach or the private island which is accessible by boat.
How to get there
The easiest way is to travel is with Air Mauritius, which is the only airline to fly direct from London Heathrow. Return fares start from just £785 per person including all taxes and charges.
For more information go to www.airmauritius.com or call 0207 434 4375.