You haven't experienced Mauritius unless you've explored Balaclava Bay. This incredible area of the island is perfect for getting that private island experience in the crescent moon-shaped bay.

Things to do in Balaclava Mauritius

Sandwiched neatly between Grand Baie and Port Louis, Balaclava is another staggeringly beautiful resort in northwestern Mauritius.

Best beaches in Balaclava

As with most resorts in Mauritius, the village of Balaclava is studded with fabulous stretches of sand. If you can tear yourself away from the unbelievably pretty Balaclava Bay, under 4km up the road you'll discover the hidden beauty that is Pointe aux Piments beach. This picture perfect location offers more dreamy azure lagoon vistas and quiet surroundings for a real private beach aesthetic. Howeverm, if you venture further out, then the beaches at Pereybere, Mont Choisy, Le Cuvette and Trou-aux-Biches come into view.

Discover the capital

Away from those incredible stretches of sand, it's definitely worth penciling a day in Port Louis into your hectic holiday schedule. Whether you fancy a kick back and chill escape or an all-out adventure the capital of Mauritius need to be on your list of must-sees. Take a wander along the Le Caudan Waterfront and stop in at some Mauritian bars and restaurants. Or pick up some culture in the Blue Penny Museum, UNESCO-rated Aapravasi Ghat or sacred Kaylasson Temple.

Explore the ruins

Speaking of culture, you don't have to travel down to the capital to experience it all. The Ruins of Balaclava is a huge site within the grounds of the magical, five-star, Maritim Resort & Spa. But there's more to this 25-acre site than just crumbling buildings. Walk around the 18th-century site before checking out the Citron River with it's wildly beautiful waterfalls. There are a number of activities on offer throughout the grounds too, from archery to fishing in the river. Then when you've finished exploring, you can always visit two renowned restaurants: Anno 1743 and Château Mon Désir

Twitching to get away

Any bird watchers out there should definitely think about Mauritius for their next tropical getaway. Home to 155 species of bird, the country is like one big beautiful aviary. Nowhere is this more apparent than at Rivulet Terre Rouge Bird Sanctuary. Acting as a refuge and wintering ground for hundreds of migratory birds, the sanctuary offers you the chance to spy some scintillating avifauna.

Watery doing here?

Water sports are a huge part the general activity spectrum on a Mauritius getaway, and there's no change in Balaclava. This sparkling location has the whole bay gaping in front of you waiting to be explored. You can dip below the waves with a snorkelling or diving adventure, or stay topside with some kayaking or canoeing. However, if you prefer to stay dry when engaging in water-based fun, you could also check out the informative Mauritius Aquarium.