Mauritius

The most developed of the Mascarene Islands, this biodiversity hotspot off the eastern coast of Africa is encircled by one of the longest continuous coral reef systems. Whilst the west of Mauritius tempts with rolling waves and postcard-perfect sunsets, the glamourous east offers the most stunning stretches of sand. Most fabulous here is lle aux Cerfs, an island playground boasting four-kilometres of talcum-white powdery bliss and plenty of water-based pursuits.

Sun-soaked beach days, Zen-like spa pampering, and glittering ocean-facing fairways beckon for most. But holidays to Mauritius offer much more for those prepared to dig beneath the dazzling surface. Enjoy a sundowner at the cocktail haunts and hip clubs around Grand Baie, marvel at the giant water lily at the Botanical Gardens in Pamplemousses, and head to the Mauritius Institute in capital Port Louis for fascinating dodo displays - this now-extinct flightless bird was once native to this tiny island nation.

As one of the world’s most celebrated scuba and snorkelling destinations, aquatic thrills are limitless. Battle with a Blue Marlin on a deep-sea fishing trip, take a catamaran cruise to the outlying islands, and explore Blue Bay Marine Park - a 353-hectare aquatic jungle with a beautiful beach that ticks off one cliché after another. Back on dry land, the UNESCO-listed Black River Gorges National Park is a must for spending an action-packed day hiking across native forest and marshy heathland, abseiling down canyon walls and thundering waterfalls, and waiting to spot the rarely-seen Mauritian pink pigeon.