In this feature, Juli Pereyra shows us a different side of Mauritius beyond the waves. With its mixed culture, natural beauty, and positive vibes, Mauritius offers a paradise for watersports lovers seeking a detox for their minds and bodies!

My first time on this island was in 2015, 9 years ago. I remember coming here and being pleasantly surprised by the mixed culture, nature, and positive vibes. The island is located in the Indian Ocean, on the east side of Madagascar. It includes the main island (also called Mauritius), Rodrigues, Agaléga, and St. Brandon.

I was welcomed by my dear local friend, Willow-River Tonkin, a fantastic person who happens to be one of the most influential individuals actively engaged in kitesurfing and wingfoiling in waves. I was and still am fortunate to have him show me around all the spots on the island and support me both on and off the water. Almost every year after that, I kept coming back. Each year had its memorable moments, but overall, this trip was an extraordinary one for me. 

I flew to Mauritius from New Zealand. When I landed on the island, the weather was hot and sunny; sometimes windy, sometimes rainy. I came during what the locals called the “off-season,” at least for the waves. And indeed, it was. As I said, not every day was an opportunity to be on the water, but every day was an opportunity to be out there and make the most of what the island offers.

I stayed at La Gaulette, a small village a few kilometres away from Le Morne, the main kite and wing spot. Both spots are situated on the west-south part of the island, which is the place for all kitesurfers, windsurfers, and wingfoilers who come to stay. 

Has a charming local vibe and a few little restaurants and cafes. Here is a little spoiler for coffee lovers! There is a fantastic coffee shop called Kind. Actual local surfers own this beautiful little shop that has as a primary goal to provide outstanding, high-quality coffee and delicious pastry, So feel free to stop by on the way to Le Morne and grab a delicious coffee on the way. 

Le Morne itself is an incredible place! The view of the mountain as you cruise around is breathtaking! It’s protected by a reef where the waves are a few kilometres from the beach, providing enough space for everyone to enjoy their time on the water in a safe environment. For those craving waves, there is plenty of space beyond the reef and many different waves to get to; the most well-known are One Eye, Manawa and a small reef. It has a flat spot, too, that is called the Kite Lagoon, where foiling is also possible. So, either waves or flats are available at the same spot.

The main wind direction on the island is south-east. That is why Le Morne and Bel Ombre are the spots where one will find the best wind to wing foil around. But as with any island, there are a few lovely places where it is possible to go out and have fun. If you are a beginner in waves and currents, get in touch with the locals for advice on when to do what. Sometimes, the spot is empty, even though it looks fantastic for a reason! The current here does its job and can become dangerous for those unaware.

When the wind is more East to North-East, drive to Point D’Esny and/or Blue Bay. They are on the south-east side of the island. They have beautiful beaches with white sand and blue crystal waters, and on the right tide, they are a paradise to foil and explore.

Anse La Raie is another great option. Situated in northern Mauritius, it is an alternative to Le Morne, which can get pretty busy during the high season. Both of these spots are in very beautiful surroundings, worthy of checking out even on a non-windy day.

When it comes to surfing, the most famous spot on the island is the Village of Tamarin. That’s the place where, on the right day, you can find beautiful waves to surf, from small and fun to amazing ones; it has to be said, as well, that there is a group of local surfers are protecting the spot, so be aware of that.

During the non-windy days, I cycled up the mountains, exploring the lush and verdant forests with my friends. Almost every morning, regardless of the weather, we would meet at 0700hs and head up the mountain of Chamarel for a refreshing start to the day. Here is another spoiler of something interesting to look at in that Area. If you have a car, I suggest driving from La Gaulette up the mountain, passing Chamarel, to the Grand Bassin Temple and the Ganga Talao; this last one is a crater lake about 550 m above sea level. It is considered the most sacred Hindu place in Mauritius.

When I wasn't cycling, I found the motivation to run up the mountains, too. Willow and his wonderful girlfriend, Michell, are great surfers and incredible runners! I discovered the beauty of mind and body training by joining them on their runs. A sense of good performance and mental inner peace began to arise and increase with each passing day. This sensation intensified as I concluded morning endurance workouts with a refreshing combination of salty and fresh water while foiling at Le Morne Beach.

Mauritius is a paradise for everyone who desires to come and make the most of what the island offers according to their preferences.

If you want to surf, it's done! Go to Tamarin. If you want to foil, let the tide guide you, and if you want to kite, you can do so every day from May to October. Additionally, there is a bit of nightlife and excellent restaurants around. Still, since my main focus is on sports, consider bringing, in addition to all your water sports gear, your bike, running shoes, or paddle racket, and come to the island for a proper body and mind detox.

 

By Juli Pereyra

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