The North of Mauritius is known as a tourist ‘hot spot’. This is not only because of the world class hotels that reside there, but also due to it’s warm climate, minimal rain and plentiful lagoons with their blue waters.
Apart from the natural beauty of this part of the island, there is also the option of shopping along the promenade as well as dining at one of the many restaurants. The restaurants range from the local delights that can be bought along the roadside to the up market seafood splendor.
The nightlife in the North is second to none on the island. Night clubs and bars are littered along the coastal road such as Les Enfants Terrible, Zanzibar, Banana Cafe and Hidden Reef. Added to these spots of dancing and socializing are the casinos, for those who like the adrenaline of taking a chance.
Of course fun not only happens nocturnally but also during the day. There are many splendid places to visit and a visit to the North would not be complete without stopping in to the see the botanical gardens at Pamplemousse. Relax as you wonder through these majestical gardens and take in the local flora and birdlife as you are transported to a place of serenity.
Another interesting place to visit is the Verger de la Bourdonnais, an extraordinary garden that accentuates Mauritius in terms of flowers, fruits and vegetables. A lovely stroll through the garden on foot or on bicycle allows one to see beautiful flowers such as anthiriums, bougainvilleas, roses, orchids and many more.
Port Louis, situated on the North West coast of the island is the Capital city of Mauritius. Founded in 1735 by French colonialists the city is now a vibrant place of business where there is a real cultural mix of inhabitants from China, Africa and Europe. The Caudan Waterfront is situated at the Port Louis harbour and this is a great place to do some shopping as well as eat at one of the many restaurants situated on the waters edge. For the history lovers, Port Louis is a treasure to be discovered. There is the fort named La Citadelle constructed by the British so as to have control of any ships arriving at the port as well as the many buildings and churches that have been standing over the centuries.
There are also many deep sea fishing boats operating from the North. Boats leave early morning on either half or full day trips and return to proudly show off their catch of species such as tuna, wahoo, dorado, bonito, shark and the magnificent marlin.
Catamaran trips are also a favourite from the North of Mauritius. Relax on these large boats as the skipper and his crew attends to your every need as they sail you to the nearby islands for a barbecue and some relaxation in the sun.
For the more adventurous, there is the Blue Safari, like the name says you will see the Mauritian wildlife…….underwater! This state of the art submarine takes its guests down to around 10m where one can see the fish species in their natural environment in the utmost of safety. There is also the option of the scooter underwater bike, where two at a time get to control their very own underwater craft whilst breathing air in their observation dome.
The North has something for everyone; fun and adventure is guaranteed as you explore and take in all the different sites and sounds from this marvelous part of the island!
