FANTASY ISLAND

INDULGE EVERY SINGLE ONE OF YOUR SENSES IN DREAMY MAURITIUS

- MIA BOLTON

WHY GO?

On the isle of Mauritius, ethereal sunsets, turquoise waters and palm-fringed beaches are punctuated by five-star resorts. But scratch the glittering surface and you'll see there's so much more to the Indian Ocean oasis than postcard-perfect views and fancy rum cocktails. The hum of bustling market stalls and warm hospitality of locals make Mauritius an Instagram-worthy getaway bursting with heart and soul.

The island's Le Morne Brabant mountain is breathtaking

Arriving in Mauritius is like teleporting into a Disney animation - and that's not just down to the island's dodo bird mascot (Hello Alice In Wonderland!). Everything here is vibrant and enchanting. Overhead, cartoonish fody birds with scarlet red bodies flash through the sky, while at ground level, frogs form choruses louder than any orchestra.

Spy eye-catching fodies

The US writer Mark Twain once said, "Mauritius was built first, then heaven was copied after Mauritius" - and we couldn't agree more.

Relax by the pool at Dinarobin Beachcomber

WHERE TO STAY

We experienced three of Beachcomber's resorts during our visit. First up was Victoria Resort & Spa, between the tourist hub of Grand Baie and Port Louis, the capital city, in the north. Suites have a chic, beach-club vibe, and you can book a "swim-up room" for extra wow factor.

Prince Harry has visited