Bounded by a virtually unbroken coral reef and fringed by a coastline of white sand and turquoise warm waters, Mauritius fulfils many people’s fantasy of a tropical island paradise. It is located in the Indian Ocean about 800km east of Madagascar and 2,000km off the nearest point of the African coast. The island is mostly of volcanic formation resulting in fascinating scenery, remnants of a large volcano which erupted many millions of years ago. The land rises from coastal plains to a central plateau where it reaches a height of 670 metres. The plateau is bordered by three mountain ranges, the highest peak, the Piton de la Petite Riviere Noire, rising to 828 metres. Inside the ring of mountain ranges, there is the Central Plateau which was formed by lava flows from several small volcanoes. Worth a visit is Trou aux Cerfs, a dormant volcano with a well-defined cone and crater and Bassin Blanc famous for the scenic lake which nestles in a volcanic cone.
Along with the natural beauty displayed in its lush forests, streams and waterfalls, Mauritius has much to offer the visitor in the warmth and friendliness of its multi-cultural population. The island’s human heritage is a melting pot of African, European and Chinese ancestry and has led to a sharing of cultures and values. One thing you will discover is that the quality of the service you receive in your hotel is not due to just good training, but to the genuine good nature of the Mauritian people. Mauritius is the ultimate destination for those seeking high standards of service, gourmet fare and world-class hotel facilities.