Mauritius, five ways to discover it between romantic hideaways and crystal clear waters

Be amazed by unique experiences that tell the most authentic soul of the island. This is true luxury in Mauritius, the Indian Ocean destination known for its turquoise sea and the exclusive resorts of brands such as Beachcomber, Four Seasons, Shangri La, LUX, Constance and many others that have dotted the island with their presence. From a seaplane ride to a private catamaran excursion and a couples' ritual in the 'cabanas' overlooking the Indian Ocean: here are five ways to discover the face of the island in the southern hemisphere. A travel destination that never disappoints, offering an embarrassment of riches in sandy beaches, romantic hideaways, diving spots and sunsets to remember.

It is an experience that begins already on the water: the light noise of the floats, the slow movement of the waves and then the take-off, soft as a breath. In a few seconds everything changes, the water recedes, the air becomes cooler and all that remains around is sky, silence and the feeling of being suspended over another world. Under the wings of the seaplane, an infinite palette of hues opens up: the brilliant turquoise of the lagoons, the mint-green of the shallows, the deep blue of the ocean. From above, one can perfectly distinguish the coral reefs that draw irregular lines, the small islands that seem to rest on the water and the white beaches that curve like brushstrokes along the coast.

Le Morne, montagna che domina l’isola con la sua forma possente

Then comes the unmistakable profile of Le Morne: a mountain that dominates the island with its mighty form, enveloped by forests that look like green velvet from above. And it is precisely by flying over it that one of the most astonishing sights of Mauritius is revealed: the famous 'underwater waterfall', an optical illusion that makes the ocean appear as if it were falling into the void. From the sky, you can clearly see the sand sliding down the underwater slope, creating a vortex of colour and depth. Flying in a seaplane is not only a way to observe Mauritius from above, but represents a moment suspended in time, a rare perspective that allows one to see the island in its purest and most extraordinary form.

There is something irresistible about the wind that swells the sails, the constant swish of the sea and the sun reflecting off the surface like a myriad of tiny diamonds. A private cruise is perhaps the most intimate and refined way to discover Mauritius from the sea: an invitation to be lulled by the slow pace of the ocean as you approach hidden bays, tongues of white sand and waters so clear you can see the seabed moving beneath the boat. On board, time seems to dilate. The crew anticipates your every wish: a glass of chilled wine served as the catamaran glides silently through the waves, a light lunch freshly prepared with local produce, the chance to stop at the most picturesque coves for a dip, a snorkelling exploration or a moment of pure relaxation on deck. When the sunset begins, the cruise changes face again: the sky lights up in shades of pink and gold, the island's mountains transform into soft silhouettes and the water reflects every colour like an immense mirror. It is the kind of beauty that invites silence, toasting, simply enjoying the moment.

In Mauritius, wellness is natural in the truest sense of the word. The oils, essences and balms used in treatments are derived from endemic plants and local ingredients - such as Mauritian vanilla, coconut, ylang-ylang or fresh aloe - that have been part of the island's healing rituals for centuries. Many facilities have chosen to bring wellness outdoors, replacing the classic indoor rooms with elegant cabanas overlooking the ocean: small shelters of wood and light fabrics hidden among the palm trees, where time seems to slow down. Here, the massage becomes a multi-sensory experience: the scent of essences mingles with the sea breeze, the sound of the waves punctuates the therapists' movements, and natural light filters through the leaves, creating a relaxing, intimate, deeply regenerating atmosphere. For couples, it is one of the most romantic moments to be experienced on the island, especially at sunset, when the sky is tinged with pink and orange and the cabana is illuminated with soft lanterns. It is a unique opportunity to connect with nature but also with each other, being enveloped in the serenity of the island.