A slow, scenic itinerary through this year-round Indian-Ocean gem, blending soulful local encounters with sun-soaked adventure…

Day One: Check-in at the One&Only Le Saint Géran

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Start on the northeast coast at One&Only Le Saint Géran, one of the island’s most iconic stays, set on a private peninsula between ocean and lagoon. Along with its beachfront suites, the resort’s just-launched ultra-luxury Private Homes offer villas with pools, sea views, and butlers, ideal for groups or anyone after extra privacy. Days are filled with kayaking through mangroves, glass-bottom boat rides, and padel beneath coconut palms. Break for a beachside picnic lunch, and dress up later for dinner at fine-dining steakhouse PRIME. Their organic steaks, local seafood, and surprisingly standout fries more than justify a reservation or two.

Day Two: Flacq Market and a local cooking class

A short drive inland takes you to Flacq Market – the island’s largest – best-visited early on a Wednesday, when it’s cooler and calmer. Local stalls brim with heart-of-palm, tamarind, pineapples, and fresh herbs, with irresistible street food at every turn. Back at the resort, join Chef Rajiv and Chef Parikshit for a hands-on Mauritian cooking class using what you’ve picked up. The prawn and heart-of-palm salad and home-style chicken curry make for a delicious, down-to-earth lunch.

Day Three: Sunrise beach horse ride

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A dream bucket-list experience for many, horse-riding along the beach is a must while in Mauritius. Several places offer it, but Legasea Stables, just 10 minutes from One&Only Le Saint Géran, stands out. The horses are calm, well-cared for, and roam free, and the early-morning rides take you along a quiet stretch of coastline as the sun comes up. Back at the resort, RIVA captures that same sense of magic in a different way. The new Italian restaurant and beach club sits beside a private pool, with a serene ocean backdrop and a menu built around fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and seasonal produce.

Day Four: Grand Bassin and check-in at The St. Regis Le Morne 

Mauritius is small enough to cross in a couple of hours, but its landscapes shift dramatically – staying in more than one region reveals just how varied it can be. Take the scenic route to the southwest coast, stopping to explore Grand Bassin, a sacred lake and Hindu site in an extinct volcano, surrounded by jungle, temples, towering statues of Shiva, and wild monkeys. Check in at the St. Regis Le Morne, a colonial-style resort at the foot of the UNESCO-listed Le Morne Brabant. It’s the perfect base for those who want to balance their days of adventure with a side of indulgence. Set on one of the island’s most beautiful beaches, it’s a favourite for kite surfing, snorkelling, and stunning sunsets. All of the suites open directly onto the sand and come with dedicated butlers. The soulful, five-star service is what really sets it apart.

Day Five: Hiking and stargazing 

If you can pull yourself away from the beach, Le Morne Brabant is one of the island’s most iconic climbs – best tackled with a local guide (David from The St. Regis comes highly recommended). The first half is manageable and offers panoramic views over the ocean, while the final stretch turns steep and scrabbly, best for confident hikers. Back at the resort, try the Mauritian tasting menu at Le Manoir (the salted fish salad is a stand-out) before joining a stargazing session with local astronomer Bhasker Desai. Expect shooting stars, constellations, and stories of interstellar dust told with an infectious energy.

Day Six: Chase waterfalls 

For proof that Mauritius is more than just a beach break, head inland to explore its natural wonders. Start in Chamarel where you’ll find the surreal Seven Coloured Earth and the island’s tallest waterfall, framed by thick jungle. Stop for lunch at Le Chamarel restaurant, with sweeping views and a menu full of local favourites. Further south, Rochester Falls is an atmospheric spot, known for its dramatic lava cliffs and shady basin. Or, for the ultimate perspective, take a helicopter ride to see the island’s famous underwater waterfall illusion from above.

Day Seven: Scuba diving and dolphin spotting 

You could easily spend all seven days in or on the water, but the west coast is where Mauritius really comes into its own. Head to Tamarin Bay at sunrise to spot dolphins in the wild, or join a catamaran tour to explore the coastline. For something slower, paddleboard from Flic en Flac or simply float in the turquoise waters. Keen divers can head out for reef dives among coral, turtles and shoals of tropical fish. All activities are weather-dependent, so check with your hotel to plan around the forecast.