A guide

Mauritius, slowed down.

A few favorite places, and a few things we always tell guests before they get here.

Iconic mountain. Sunset hike with reef views.

Why we send guests: Our pick for your last evening — be at the top by 5pm.

Boat day around the east coast.

Why we send guests: Get the morning boat from Trou d'Eau Douce; pack snacks.

Trails, waterfalls, viewpoints.

Why we send guests: Cool morning hike — the highest point on the island.

Seven-coloured earth and a 100m waterfall.

Why we send guests: Combine with a Le Morne sunset on the same day.

Sacred Hindu temple by a crater lake.

Why we send guests: Quiet weekday mornings; respectful clothing appreciated.

Tamarin Bay, leaving by 6:30am.

Why we send guests: We can introduce you to a captain who doesn't crowd them.

Tips from a local.

May–November is dry and breezy. December–April is hotter, occasionally wetter, and has the warmest sea.

Yes. Drive on the left. The roads are calmer than they look, and the south coast is worth the drive.

Reef-safe sunscreen, a small dry bag, your favorite mosquito repellent.

Ask us — there's a list on the fridge of three places we love and one you should skip.

Want to use Flic-en-Flac as your base for exploring all this? Stay at our 3-bedroom holiday home in Flic-en-Flac: pool, A/C, sleeps 6, five minutes' walk to the beach.