In the small coastal villages of Mauritius, it is a tradition for the Mauritian family to gather on Sunday. It is particularly festive since for the inhabitants, mostly fishermen and their families, Sunday is when they can relax after a long week of work at sea. They look forward to enjoy the beach and land activities with their loved ones.

In the morning, while many go to Church, Temple or Ashram, some prefer get a little rest and sleep in. The small shops called “Taba-J” and “laboutik” will be opened during a few hours for the last-minute purchases. After homemade food is prepared, it’s time to head to the beach. Once towels and tents have been set up on the beach, the adults lay out the lunch while the children go for a swim in warm waters or build sand castles. Why not join a Mauritian family for an authentic experience during your tailor-made holidays?

Surf & nature haven

Tamarin beach also attracts a lot of inhabitants from its coastal village. Many will gather to spend the day at the beach beneath shady trees. While some will take a nap and relax, others play the traditional musical instrument the “Ravanne” and sing the Sega. Colourful food carts parked under filao trees, serve the famous dumplings called “boulettes” and other Mauritian snacks to everyone’s delight. Sit back and enjoy a cold Mauritian beer or ride the waves, until the glorious sunset that will leave you speechless!

As for nature lovers, Lakaz Chamarel, tucked in the mountains near Chamarel, offers splendid vistas over the ocean. On Sundays, the village scene includes locally-grown coffee, spicy Creole cuisine, and soulful music. Grab an electric bike and head to Case Noyale beach or Le Morne for an amazing coastal trip. Le Morne mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage attracts many hikers. Make sure to stop by the Le Morne beach, the warm crystal-clear water is perfect for a swim!

Mauritius Northern Hospitality

Grand Gaube offers idyllic views straight off a postcard. It is the perfect spot to watch the sun rising from the sea and it’s one of the most awe-inspiring experience you don’t want to miss. The rugged coastline, sprinkled with sandy beaches, is also wonderful for a relaxing walk. Goodlands’ market is a short bus ride away and is worth a visit if you are looking for local and artisanal souvenirs. Discover the famous coastal village of Grand-Baie, located a little further, which is perfect for Sunday shopping, a catamaran trip, and sun-tanning on the beach.

While enjoying your tailor-made holidays, why not stay at Veranda Paul et Virginie, a couples-only hotel located at Grand Gaube on the North coast of the island. On Sunday morning, stroll over to a shop for the local newspaper and try the traditional bread with butter and “gateaux piment” which are bites made with split pea and chilies. Mauritians are fond of it! Tandem bikes make it easy to get around and explore Grand Gaube’s village. Make sure to visit the 19th century Church with the red roof - a famous spot offering a stunning view of the lagoon with Gunner's Quoin on the backdrop.

Five minutes north is Zilwa Attitude at Calodyne. Experience “Otentik” (authentic) encounters of the region’s distinctive Creole lifestyle. Explore the islets off the coast of the hotel; kids can play in the turquoise water or on the main beach. Become a true islander, by wearing the famous “Dodo” flip flops offered by the hotel and sipping on a local rum cocktail. For dinner, why not join Mauritian family for an exceptional moment?

Rodrigues: A Creole Island in the Sun

On a hilly incline, near English Bay, sits Domaine de la Paix. Sunday breakfast includes luscious home-baked brioche, slathered with jams and local honey. A morning visit to Trou d’Argent beach, or the caves are a must; late afternoon the lagoon beckons one onto a fishing boat, or kiting off the eastern shores.

Wherever you choose to stay in Mauritius or Rodrigues, you will be surrounded by true cultural experiences like no other. Find out more through our Islandian Experts, who are here to assist you in planning your authentic tailor-made holidays in the sun.