Mauritius is a popular travel destination for visitors looking for an exotic change of scenery. With its superb white sandy beaches, crystal clear lagoons, national parks, endemic forests, unique flora and fauna, Mauritius is the perfect place to enjoy a holiday full of discoveries, sports and leisure activities, but is also ideal for those who love to relax and sunbathe. Whether you stay for five days or ten, as a couple or with your family, there is plenty to do and see around the island, with tailor-made tours to suit all your desires. Follow the guide and plan your dream vacation. The very best Mauritius has to offer Mauritius has everything you could possibly want or expect from a destination with so many unique assets.   Mauritians’ authentic hospitality What sets Mauritius apart from other holiday destinations is the friendliness of its people, which makes it one of the cornerstones of its international reputation. The bilingualism (French/English) combined with Creole breaks down the language barrier. In addition to the warm welcome, Mauritius is an extraordinary cultural melting pot. A land of successive and diverse immigrants, Mauritians are a fine blend of European, African, Malagasy, Chinese and Indian cultures. From this fantastic cultural and ethnological combination was born a tasty cuisine, rich in colours and exotic spices, a real culinary odyssey filled with diversity, enough to satisfy the most demanding palates. Sumptuous beaches Mauritius’ other asset is its miles of magnificent beaches and turquoise lagoons. The beautiful beaches of Trou aux Biches, Mon Choisy, Flic en Flac or Belle-Mare and the paradise-like Ile aux Cerfs boast stunning landscapes with transparent waters inviting you to laze around or to engage in fabulous discovery and leisure activities. The islands surrounding Mauritius make for exceptional excursions by boat or catamaran to explore the wild beauty of these beaches. Between sea and land, there is a wide range of activities: snorkeling or scuba diving to discover the richness of the seabed, boat trips to visit the islands or to see dolphins in their natural environment, surfing, kite or paddle, parasailing, water skiing, skydiving, beautiful and easy hikes, discovery of local fauna and flora in the parks and nature reserves, visits to extraordinary geological sites and fascinating museums to better understand the history, exceptional culinary and cultural heritage ….  Your stay in Mauritius will leave you with unforgettable memories.  What to do in Mauritius in five days? Your stay will be short but intense. How to enjoy the best of Mauritius in a short stay? Here is a non-exhaustive programme of activities and excursions focused on sea, nature and Mauritian culture to optimize your time here. Day 1: Enjoy the beaches to the full No matter where you’re staying, there’s always a beautiful public beach within a short drive. Whether you like deserted beaches lined with filaos rustling gently in the wind or more vibrant beaches where you can satisfy your passion for water and land-based activities, discover the beautiful lagoons where swimming in crystal clear turquoise or emerald waters is ideal year-round. Soak up the beautiful Mauritian sunshine and start tanning on the beach at Mont Choisy or Trou aux Biches or try your hand at kiteboarding in the Morne lagoon and surfing in Tamarin! Day 2: Cruise to Ile aux Cerfs or the Northern Islands The mythical Ile aux Cerfs gives postcard beach lovers a taste of paradise on earth. Accessible by boat from the small coastal village of Trou d’Eau Douce, just a short distance from Mythic Suites & Villas, Ile aux Cerfs is a must during your stay in Mauritius. Have fun exploring its creeks, discovering the underwater life of its coral reefs by snorkeling, sunbathing on its fine sandy beaches, having lunch barefoot in the sand, and enjoying the many water and land activities offered to visitors. You can also opt for a day trip aboard a catamaran to the northern islands, where you will discover the islets surrounding Mauritius and enjoy the pristine beaches and beautiful lagoons of Gabriel Island or Plate Island (https://www.croisieres-australes.com/fr ), with a barbecue on board. Day 3: Discover dolphins in their natural environment and Robinsonnade This is one of the most popular excursions to do during your stay in Mauritius. On the west coast and departing from the fishing village of Tamarin, embark with one of our service providers respectful of the observation guidelines to discover the pods of dolphins that live off the Mauritian coast. It is possible to get into the water to watch them swim. After this exciting experience, take a day trip and picnic on “Ile aux Bénitiers”. Snorkel for tropical fish and spend a Robinson-like day exploring the islet.  DAY 4: Explore Mauritius’ lush natural surroundings Nature lovers? Put on your sports shoes and head out for a hike in the Black River Gorges National Park. Located on the south-western coast, a ten-minute drive from Marguery Villas, the island’s major national park is home to exceptional and endemic flora and fauna in its native forest. Ask our concierge to prepare a picnic lunch for you the day before so that you can make the most of your excursion. From endemic trees to protected birds, explore the waterfalls, hiking trails and panoramic views of the south and central part of the island from its forested mountains.  After this green interlude, continue south to Mauritius’ small coastal and fishing villages, where the rhythm of life is unique. Take a look at the magnificent mountain of Le Morne, with its tragic history, which was once home to the maroon slaves who ran away from the estates and threw themselves into the void out of fear of repression. Listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, it overlooks a beautiful public beach with trees and a magnificent lagoon where you can learn to kite and watch the ballet of multicoloured sails. DAY 5: The Thousand Faces of Port Louis The capital of Mauritius is best visited on foot to discover its historic heart and to better immerse yourself in its rich multicultural and historical heritage. Accompanied by a private guide during an exciting discovery with a gastronomic or historical theme (https://mymoris.mu/ ), or simply on a walk, Port Louis will immediately give you a change of scenery in a profusion of colours and smells. Start your discovery with the explosion of colours and scents of the central market, called “bazaar”. Here, all strata of the Mauritian population come together to look for fruit and vegetables, spices or textiles, meat or fish, amidst pyramids of unfamiliar vegetables and fruit, exotic spices, the hailing of merchants, giant tuna carried on the backs of men, local crafts, herbal tea makers… Wander the ancient cobbled streets and admire the sumptuous Jummah Mosque, the Saint-Louis Cathedral and the Chinese pagodas. Discover the street art in Chinatown and try the local culinary specialities in street food mode. Shop in the malls, bazaars and shops. Get a bird’s eye view of the harbour from Fort Adelaide (La Citadelle). This condensed itinerary will enable you to explore some of Mauritius’ beautiful attractions in five days. There is much more to discover on this beautiful island during a longer stay! What to experience in Mauritius on a 10-day trip? If you have 10 days to explore Mauritius, you can enjoy more activities and visit more sites. Here is a suggested itinerary:   Day 1: Discovering Port Louis and Pamplemousses Start your journey by exploring Port Louis, our capital city. Visit the central market to stock up on spices and smells, the historic Place d’Armes and its great men and women, and the street art of Chinatown. Visit the Blue Penny Museum on the harbour to learn about the history of the island and admire the Blue Penny, one of the rarest stamps in the world. Nearby, at the Aapravasi Ghat, walk in the footsteps of the first ‘indentured’ Indians, Chinese, Malagasies and Africans who came to the island to supplant the slaves after the abolition of slavery and who became the original inhabitants of the island in a beautiful interactive display. For local and international shopping, head to the Caudan Waterfront or wander the central streets to browse through the capital’s small shops for local gems. You may also want to visit the Pamplemousses area with its Botanical Garden created by the famous Pierre Poivre, whose 25 hectares are home to thousands of species of plants and flowers, some of which are unique to Mauritius. Go ahead and check out the Aventure du Sucre, an ecomuseum five minutes away from the Garden to learn about and understand the central role played by sugarcane in the history and economic development of Mauritius.  Day 2 and 3: Relaxation and activities on the beach A good way to get into the Mauritian rhythm on one of the island’s white sandy beaches. While popular beaches include Trou aux Biches, Mont Choisy and Flic en Flac, there are just as many different atmospheres and beaches to discover in Mauritius. The grey sandy beach at Tamarin in the west, where the coastal village is home to the best known surfing spot, Dale, where you can try your hand at surfing or swimming in this beautiful bay where dolphins live year round. The powdery sand of Grand Bay in the north, with its clear turquoise waters, is the starting point for excursions to the northern islets. The confidential beaches of Casita and Cap Malheureux, lined with coconut trees, with an exceptional view of Coin de Mire, Round island and Flat island, and wonderfully fishy lagoons. The wilder beaches of Grand-Gaube, Roches-Noires, Trou d’Eau Douce, and Belle-Mare with its whitewashed kilns and Hindu temples. The jagged cliffs of Gris-Gris in the south, with a touch of Brittany, or the deserted beach of La Cambuse… You are spoilt for choice when it comes to relaxing or having fun with the many water sports on offer, the most accessible of which is snorkeling to discover the underwater life.  Day 4: The north of Mauritius: shopping and local cuisine on the menu The north of the island is more touristy and cosmopolitan. On the road, stop at the factory shops selling locally made textiles for the international brands. In the north, some of the most popular beaches in Mauritius are spread out, both for Mauritians and visitors. Sunbathing, swimming, shopping and tasting local dishes are on the agenda. Trou aux Biches with its fine white sand and clear waters has plenty of water activities. It borders on the famous beach of Mont Choisy with its huge turquoise lagoon and its trees that are perfect for a nap. Cap Malheureux offers an awesome view of the Coin de Mire and is home to many art galleries and shops. Finally, the seaside village of Grand-Baie is the most lively place on the island. Very busy, lined with dozens of restaurants, shopping centers, discotheques and bars, an artisanal market and shops of all kinds, it is situated on the edge of a sublime turquoise bay and serves as a departure point for numerous excursions and activities. Grand Bay offers all types of Mauritian cuisine, from finger food to fine dining restaurants, you’ll be spoilt for choice! End the day with a cocktail at one of the bayfront clubs. Day 5: Discovering the East of Mauritius The wilder Windward Coast is full of surprises for lovers of uncrowded beaches and typical Mauritian villages. Numerous fishy creeks to explore with children, the emerald and clear waters of the large lagoons, temples emerging in the middle of sugarcane fields, vegetable plantations, lime kilns now inactive … visit Poste Lafayette, Belle-Mare, Trou d’Eau Douce, all poetic and evocative village names where you can make beautiful and authentic encounters. Don’t hesitate to take a very accessible hike in the Bras d’Eau National Park to discover the local fauna and flora. Have lunch in one of the many Mauritian restaurants and taste the amazing Mauritian cuisine. Day 6: The mini-cruise: dolphins, fishing, picnic or discovering the islets If you like sailing, Mauritius is the ideal place to combine the joys of sailing and discovery. Many activities linked to the ocean will satisfy your desire for the open sea and beautiful surprises. The dolphin trip at Tamarin is a must to admire these cetaceans in their natural environment and during the Mauritian winter (June to October) to follow the migration of humpback whales. You can also spend the day on a catamaran with swimming and snorkeling stops and grilled food served by the crew for a midday trip to Ile aux Bénitiers. Try your hand at big game fishing in the fishy waters and try to catch a tuna, bonito or swordfish on a well equipped boat. In the north, the main excursions consist in discovering the islands around Mauritius on a catamaran mini-cruise, an opportunity to admire the breathtaking view of the Coin de Mire, to sunbathe on immaculate beaches and to swim in the crystal clear waters of the islets. During the off-season, you’ll enjoy the feeling of exclusivity on deserted beaches. Day 7: Golf course and a matinee at Ile aux Cerfs Head to the beautiful Anahita International Golf Course while the rest of the family enjoys an exotic day out on the stunning Ile aux Cerfs. Head to the east coast to drop off the family’s Tiger Wood at the 18-hole professional golf course with its breathtaking views across clear lagoons and green mountains (https://www.anahita.mu/en/golf-mauritius ).  While you perfect your slice, the family boards one of the boats in nearby Point Mauritius for the short crossing to this little paradise. White sandy beaches, turquoise waters, small isolated coves: on the programme, sunbathing, lunch and the joys of the beach to perfect your tan or to try out one of the many activities offered on site.  Day 8: Discovering the west of the island Authentic and less developed in terms of tourism, the west of Mauritius is home to many fishing villages. Start with Albion lighthouse and its jagged cliffs from where humpback whales can be spotted during the southern winter, then enjoy a coconut or a pineapple on the famous Flic en Flac beach, after a dive in its transparent and warm waters. On the way to Tamarin, and if you dream of feeding a giraffe or walking alongside a lion, stop at Casela, a huge wildlife and activity park that will delight the whole family. Rhinos, lions, giraffes, cheetahs, tigers, monkeys, ostriches, zebras, magnificent birds…, you will be carried back to Africa in the heart of the Mauritian savannah. Zip lines, 4D cinema, mini-farm, quad bikes, suspension bridges… rediscover your child’s soul in these fun and open-air places (https://caselaparks.com/ ). End the day on the grey sandy beach of Tamarin, a tiny fishing village where everyone practices surfing on the mythical spot of Dale or paddling on the bay or river. Very family friendly and relaxed, it is a tradition to watch the beautiful sunset on the beach with a local beer in hand.  Day 9: Acting as an eco-friendly guest Like all islands, Mauritius is vulnerable to climate change and human impact on nature. Take a guided tour of one of the island’s nature reserves and contribute to the conservation of endemic species thanks to the income generated. One such example is the Ile aux Aigrettes nature reserve off the south-east coast, which is home to unique fauna and flora and is considered one of the most important biodiversity conservation areas in Mauritius. Restored by the Mauritius Wildlife Foundation, the nature reserve is now home to a wide variety of endemic species, including the pink pigeon, the Mauritius fruit bat, the Mauritius gecko, the Aldabra giant tortoise…  Other wildlife sanctuaries include the Heritage Nature Reserve on the south coast of Mauritius, the Ferney Valley in the south-east, the Ebony Forest and the Black River Gorges Park. Day 10: The south of the island On this last day, explore the south of the island, taking the coastal road to discover the typical and peaceful life of the small Mauritian villages. Don’t hesitate to stop and soak up these authentic places where time seems to have no hold. Head for the charming village of Mahébourg, colourful, lively and overlooking a magnificent bay renowned for its pirogue regattas. The historical museum of the Mauritian Navy is a must-see, offering a nostalgic and fascinating look at the island’s past, with its collections of maps, furniture, objects, weapons and old cannons. Stop by the Rault biscuit factory, which has been making delicate manioc biscuits for more than a century, ideal for gifts. If you’re a marine life enthusiast, head to the magnificent Blue Bay beach and its protected marine park, the ideal place to discover the exceptional underwater life by snorkeling or paddling. Continue on the road to the wild south to Chamarel and its famous Land of 7 Colours, a surprising geological singularity with a beautiful palette of colours, and a superb refreshing waterfall. A visit to the nearby Rhumerie will give you the opportunity to bring back some local rhums before your flight back home.    An intense stay alternating between peaceful days and active holidays with this tour designed for ten unforgettable days. Contact our concierge to book your activities.

Mauritius is a beautiful island with stunning scenery, including many spectacular waterfalls. The pleasant temperatures that prevail all year round are perfect for exploring some of the island’s most beautiful waterfalls within easy reach or a hike away. Take a refreshing swim in some of the island’s pristine natural pools surrounded by stunning scenery. Check out these 6 waterfalls to discover during your stay in Mauritius.    The most breathtaking waterfall in Mauritius Chamarel Waterfall Located in the south-west, the island’s highest waterfall is nestled in the Black River Gorges. It can be easily reached from the reserve of the “Seven-coloured earths” in Chamarel. Within this natural setting of endemic flora and fauna, the waterfall unveils itself in its full splendor. Its cool waters make for an invigorating bath all year round.Waterfalls to explore with a guide   To make the most of your discovery of the local waterfalls, hire a guide for these less accessible ones, to enjoy your day in complete serenity.   The 7 Waterfalls (Tamarind Falls)   This permanent water flow spreads and scatters in several small waterfalls, which gave it its name. Located in the Black River Gorges National Park, it can be reached through the small village of Henrietta in the center of Mauritius. Several hiking trails lead to it and the best way to get the most out of this place is to hire a guide to spot the endemic species along the way. (http://www.randonnees-ile-maurice.com/7-cascades/)Alexandra Falls   Although less easily accessible and reserved for experienced hikers, Alexandra Falls is a real opportunity to get deep into the heart of the local fauna and flora: the pink pigeon, the green catechist, monkeys and many endemic trees can be spotted along the way. Get a guide to escort you on this magical trip.   The easy waterfalls to discover on a short hike   Eau Bleue   Clear turquoise waters, Eau Bleue is a true delight for the senses. Close to the village of Cluny in the south, in the middle of cane fields and forests, this very accessible waterfall is perfect for a picnic and swimming during a family walk.   Rochester Falls   Further south, near the village of Souillac, Rochester Falls is the best known and certainly the most spectacular waterfall in Mauritius. Access to it is easily reached by car prior to a short walk. Famous for its refreshing rushing water, the waterfall is very popular during school holidays. With boulders shaped by water flow, it offers a unique and spectacular experience.     Seaward side: Grande Rivière Sud Est Waterfall   On this occasion, a boat will take you to this smaller waterfall located in the south-east of Mauritius near Ile aux Cerfs. The site is very popular but the visit is worth it. Once you cross the lagoon, the boat will take you to the foot of the waterfall, a short distance away from a densely vegetated river branch.  Finally, the spectacular underwater waterfall off the Morne lagoon is not really one, but rather the visual illusion of an underwater drop-off. The helicopter flight over it is breathtakingly beautiful! Our advice: ask our concierge to book you a day trip with a guide to the hard-to-reach waterfalls or go on your own with a picnic ordered in advance to discover the easily accessible ones. Enjoy the coolness of the pools and don’t dive from the top without checking their depth or without swimming abilities.

Sportive meetings are back again, much to athletes’ and spectators’ enjoyment, who came to admire the best performances. Mauritius is particularly well suited for international events, set between mountains and coast. Sports enthusiasts, players or supporters, check out three competitions to attend or watch while staying at one of our resorts.   Upcoming sports events in Mauritius The Moka Trail on 1 October Trails have become a popular sport over the past 15 years and more and more local enthusiasts are joining the ranks of international champions and challenging each other to their fullest potential. The Moka Trail is one of the many annual competitions offering a unique opportunity to discover central Mauritius through a number of mountain peaks and typical local villages.   Although the entire splendid journey along a rugged and unspoilt landscape is more for experienced trail runners, less experienced runners can still participate in the shorter Deux Mamelles trail. This sporting event annually brings together athletes from the Indian Ocean region as well as Mauritians and many foreigners also join in. Three different trails are organized: the Grand Pouce, a demanding race of 28km and 1350m of climbing; the Petit Both with a total of 14km and a 650m of climbing; and the Deux Mamelles, a 7km trail that can be completed in a leisurely manner. Everything is well organized and full medical support and assistance is provided. You can still register by following this link: https://trailpei.run/course/moka-trail/     The 4th BEACHCOMBER GOLF CUP from 10 to 13 November Tiger Wood fans, golf putt perfectionists or swing devotees, grab your sunglasses and head out to the course to watch the best French and local club golfers. This first amateur golf competition in match-play over 6 holes welcomes the best French National teams. The competition is held at Mont Choisy le Golf, a spectacular course in the north of Mauritius, with breathtaking views over the lagoon and the northern islands. An opportunity to enjoy a high-level competition and to discover a golf track to play in the future.   The Indian Ocean Triathlon on 12 November Set in the foothills of Le Morne mountain and the lagoon’s crystal-clear waters, the Indian Ocean Triathlon is one of the most challenging and exciting ways to compete with Mauritius’ elite athletes. The participants will experience three intense challenges within this heavenly setting: swimming in the lagoon, climbing the Chamarel hill and running on Le Morne beach, in a great and friendly atmosphere. To register: https://www.njuko.net/iot2022/select_competition     Make the most of your holiday in Mauritius by attending or participating in sports competitions. A unique opportunity to be totally immersed in exceptional landscapes and to meet new people and create more links with the Mauritians.

Mauritius boasts world-renowned professional golf courses, often designed by champions, with views of the Indian Ocean or the mountains. This is just one of the advantages of being a sublime travel destination that perfectly combines relaxation and pleasure.   Golfing in Mauritius, an unforgettable experience  Whether you are an experienced player or a beginner golfer, why not take advantage of your holiday in Mauritius to play a perfect round of golf or improve your swing accompanied by a golf instructor? Let’s discover together the sumptuous scenery of the three accessible golf courses on the west and south coast of Mauritius. Tamarina Golf Club, nestled between river and savannah A 15m drive from your resort Marguery villa, Tamarina stands as a haven of peace within this western region’s somewhat dry landscape. The 18-hole par 72 championship course was designed by architect Rodney Wright and covers 206 hectares. Similar to all golf courses in Mauritius, the 18-hole championship par 72 course combines technical challenges with superb views of Rempart Mountain and Tamarin Bay to the delight of players. The beautiful course is perfectly suited to all types of players and its 18 holes do not feature any major difficulties. Drive your golf cart around the track and enjoy the small, wild river branch and share the green with the many monkeys and ducks that populate the area. Tamarina Golf Club offers a wide range of facilities, including a practice area, a Pro Shop and an Academy. Just starting out or dreaming of trying your hand at golf?  PGA instructors are available for an introduction or an improvement session if you are an experienced golfer After the game, take a refreshing dip in the Dix-Neuf, the clubhouse.   At the Morne Brabant, The Paradise Golf Club The Paradise Golf Club is located at the foot of the Morne mountain and consists of an 18-hole Par 72 course of almost 6000m professional course, set between the lagoon and the legendaryLe Morne mountain. A Tropical golf course, where native plants thrive along the beach lined with palm and coconut trees. With the Ile aux Bénitiers opposite and the mountain in the immediate vicinity, the golf course turns into an olfactory and sensory experience, under the gentle rustle of the coconut trees.  A guaranteed change of scenery that will appeal to experienced golfers with the design of bunkers and fairways by Pro Tony Johnstone. just to add some excitement to the course The clubhouse is open to golfers after the game. A fully equipped Pro Shop with a wide range of international brands, a practice ground, and three chip & putts for short game enjoyment are also available. The Golf Academy and instructors provide customized lessons.   Heritage Golf Club – an exceptional course Further south, in Bel Ombre, the sublime and award-winning Heritage course is one of the most beautiful in Mauritius and in any way the most spectacular one. Its 100 hectares of breathtaking scenery stretch from the mountain tops, the forests and rivers, the valleys and down to the rolling waves of the Indian Ocean. The 18-hole championship course was designed by renowned South African golf architect Peter Matkovich.. Heritage promises an unforgettable golf experience and thrill for experienced golfers and those looking for an initiation to the game, regardless of your level. Besides the 18-hole championship course, a 9-hole (Par 3) course, a putting green and a chipping green are also to be found. Night golf is also on offer. The Country Club at Heritage Golf Club offers refreshments and meals before and after a game. There is also a Pro Shop, changing rooms and golf instructors for private lessons How accessible are the golf courses in Mauritius?  You will be required to pay a fee to access these three superb golf courses and practice your favorite sport. Forgot your putts? No problem, each golf course offers them for hire. If you want to take a gentle introduction to golf as a family, the instructors will guide you through your first steps. Golfing on the west and south coasts of Mauritius is an intense experience not to be missed! Please ask our concierges for information on how to book.

The true essence of a holiday is allowing yourself time for your well-being, enjoy yourself, and recharge your batteries. Our Marguery Villas resort is an ideal setting for an exclusive and relaxing holiday. We make a point of ensuring your stay is a truly peaceful and serene one.     Peace of mind in a relaxing environment Your spacious and bright Villa serves as your stay’s highlight. Designed to be as comfortable as possible and to make you feel at home, your villa is a haven of tranquillity devoted to your well-being and relaxation. Its private garden offers all the privacy you could wish for in a swirl of exotic fragrances perfect for moments of total wellness. We therefore suggest a selection of exclusive experiences to make your stay unforgettable and treat yourself to the very best.   – The asana facing the sun Yoga is a Sanskrit word that stands for relaxation. Set up as a lifestyle practice, it helps to de-stress the body while bringing peace of mind. Never tried it before? Go ahead and introduce yourself to it! Yoga sessions are available in the Villa or on the beach. Along with birdsong or the gentle sea murmur, get back in touch with your inner self and energize your body.   – Meditation for complete serenity We also run meditation sessions in villas or on the beach. Feel yourself inspired by Mauritius’ natural energy. Close your eyes, let your body and soul drift in peace, feel the warmth of the sun on your skin: you soon reach a state of complete serenity.   – Personal or couple massage and wellness care Relaxation and well-being are the key words to describe body therapy. Treat yourself to the skillful hands of our expert and savour the moment from the comfort of your terrace or kiosk. Icing on the cake, a holistic and healing formula is also proposed inVillas.   – Indulge yourself with a healthy diet Holidays in Mauritius are the ideal time to pay due attention to your eating habits. Discover local, healthy and tasty Mauritian cuisine, ready to be delivered in your Villa. Check out our best addresses in Black River with our concierge desk if you wish to eat organic.   Soak up the Mauritian spirit of relaxed tropical living, taking the time to live at your own pace, to suit your moods and needs. At Marguery Villa, we pride ourselves on making well-being and serenity an integral part of your holiday. Let’s pause and savour the pleasure of slowing down the pace between two exciting excursions on the island, keeping in mind the famous quote by Baudelaire who once lived here: ” Everything here is luxury, calm and harmony “.

Ganesh Chaturthi is the most famous national religious festival for both locals and visitors to the West Coast of Mauritius. Celebrated by the Marathi community on September 1 this year, this festival honors Ganesh, one of the most important gods of the Hindu pantheon. A unique opportunity to share fervour in a dazzling display of colour. Do not miss it! It’s also a great time to capture some wonderful shots and bring back amazing memories!   Religious festivals in Mauritius: open to all   Due to its multiculturalism, Mauritius celebrates at the national level the major religious festivals of the different Hindu, Muslim, Chinese and Catholic calendars. These are important public holidays within Mauritian religious life, which often practice interculturality. Thus, it is not uncommon to come across Mauritians participating in and accompanying the celebrations of religions other than their own. With their great kindness and sense of welcome, Mauritians celebrate their religious ceremonies in a tolerant and open-minded manner. Visitors are welcome, provided of course that they respect the rules (no alcohol consumed on the premises, decent dress). If you are lucky enough to stay in Mauritius during the celebration of one of these ceremonies, we strongly encourage you to attend and experience a beautiful moment of devotion and discovery of other cultures. This is the case of the very folkloric celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi which usually takes place in September, according to the Hindu lunar calendar (https://www.calendardate.com/ganesh_chaturthi_2023.htm ) If you stay at Marguery Villas, do not miss this unique ceremony!Ganesh Chaturthi: A ten-day celebration in Mauritius The Marathi community of Tamarin celebrates this important festival of their calendar with great devotion. .( https://magikindia.com/fr/ganesha-chaturthi-india/) The festivities begin with every household placing a clay statue of Ganesh in their home ten days before the final ritual, which consists of immersing it in the rivers or the sea. This period is devoted to fasting, prayers and the observation of rituals such as Vedic incantations in groups and the practice of the “jhakri“, a traditional dance native to the Indian region of Konkan accompanied by the “dholak“, an Indian drum. A visit to the pink temple on the main road to Tamarin village is a good opportunity to learn about the symbolic importance of the sacred site.Ganesh Chaturthi procession in Mauritius This procession signals the beginning of the festivities before its climax, the immersion. The Marathis depart from the temple in a joyful din of cymbals, music, prayers and the scent of incense and head towards Tamarin Bay. Beautifully dressed in saris or shimmering traditional outfits, women sing fervently, accompanied by young girls who dance with sticks that they clash in a twirling choreography. Men carry the statues of Ganesh that are to be immersed. The whole village gathers on the beach, near the boat landing, to join in the ceremonies.The immersion ritual After the traditional prayers, the men carrying the statues step into the water. Sometimes struggling against a rough sea, they hold the statues firmly and proceed into the water almost to the point of losing contact with the bottom. On the beach, songs and prayers intensify, everybody’s eyes glow. The statues are delicately placed on the bottom and some men do not hesitate to dive to make sure that they stand perfectly straight. Made of clay, they will gradually dissolve in the ocean. If you explore the bay with a snorkel, you may find traces of them.Coconuts Part of the final ritual is to throw the traditional coconuts used for prayers towards the statues. Some are plain, others are beautifully painted in bright colours representing female or male figures. After the festival in Tamarin, for four or five days, they may be found along the shore of the bay. As the sun sets, families gather to enjoy a traditional meal.  Our tip: Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated late in the afternoon. Park at the bay and head to the temple if you wish to watch the whole procession. Otherwise, join the spectators near the boat landing and feel free to chat with members of the Marathi community to learn more about their religious practices.

The weekend is just around the corner and you feel like relaxing after a day exploring the island or working from home? Check out our five recommended cosmopolitan, local, Spanish or French places for a laid-back aperitif within a ten-minute drive or walk from Marguery Villas, Mauritius.The best places for an aperitif near Marguery Villas, Mauritius.Take advantage of the best places for an aperitif with friends or family just a few minutes walk from your resort.The KioskLocated in front of Marguery Villas, it is the perfect place to sip your favorite drink while your children play around in the small shopping center. The place is always friendly and never crowded. Watch a rooster climb one of the big trees while sitting comfortably in the lounge area or at one of the tables. The ideal side dish for your beer or wine: chicken pops, French fries or a choice of samosas and spring rolls.Bodega La PlanchaThe excellent bodega La Plancha, also located in Ruisseau-Créole, serves authentic Basque cuisine and tapas. Perched on a stool around its high tables, customers may order several types of delicious imported products based on Mediterranean and Basque cuisine: squid, shrimp, shells, snails, clams, marinades… Gourmet pleasures are always on the menu along with good wines.The best addresses for an aperitif in Tamarin, MauritiusDirection Tamarin, a few minutes drive from your resort, Marguery Villas, to discover places with a good atmosphere for a successful aperitif.Chez Lulu at Cap Tamarin, Mauritius, for an aperitif in a bistroA friendly bistro atmosphere and conviviality are guaranteed on Thursdays from 5:30 pm at Cap Tamarin Square, at the entrance to the village. This authentic and trendy bistro attracts regulars of afterworks. On the menu: a game of pétanque, tapas and cocktails as well as the famous wine cellar. Moreover, live music is available for dancing and enjoying a great relaxing moment in a laid-back atmosphere. A new festive theme is selected every week and has become a favourite event on the West Coast.Big Willy’sA few steps away from Cap Tamarin Square, the Big (for the regulars) welcomes cosmopolitan customers in a spacious garden with two outdoor bars. Lots of space, a great screen for sports events, a Beer Garden to taste the best local and international beers and a wide choice of cocktails, a karaoke for music lovers… Big Willy’s is the ideal place to enjoy tapas or dinner before a night out. For a late-night drink, the club will play live music from 9pm on some Fridays.Le FrenchieLocated at the entrance of the Gorges route in a tiny shopping center, the Frenchie is a meeting place for both regulars and late-nighters. Sit under the coral garden patio or at the bar and enjoy a beer or a cocktail listening to our local DJ from 7pm onwards. A warm and relaxed atmosphere, perfect to start the weekend.To make the most of your stay and nightlife in Tamarin and Black River, nothing compares to an aperitif. All these places are open without reservation, except for Chez Lulu where it is recommended to book a table, given the affluence.