Sometimes, a picture or video pops up that leaves you thinking, “Jheez, I really want to go there.” For me, Mauritius has long been one of those places. Crystal-blue waters, looming mountains that create an endless, awe-inspiring backdrop, and lush forests and vegetation in between.
Situated about 2,000 kilometres off the southeastern coast of East Africa, just east of Madagascar, Mauritius sits pretty in the Indian Ocean, a by-product of ancient volcanic eruptions that formed the island. Offering spectacular views and a year-round average temperature of around 25°C (77°F), it’s the perfect place to experience what I can only describe as bucket-list golf.
Fortunately for me, Golf Today was invited by Shangri-La to enjoy the delights that Mauritius has to offer, and the breathtaking courses situated on the paradisiacal island.
Accommodation in Mauritius
My home for the duration was Shangri-La Le Touessrok, and when I say it’s a location that leaves you pinching yourself, I mean it. Nestled on the idyllic shores of Trou d’Eau Douce, the resort offers uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean and an architectural design that blends seamlessly with its environment.
From the moment you arrive, you’re transported to a world of serenity and relaxation. It’s impossible not to be taken aback by your surroundings; at every turn, you’re struck by the sheer beauty of the setting. Golden sand contrasts with the two-tone blue of the shallow reefs, just beyond the pristine pools and thatched-roofed structures. It’s as if you asked Google to show you a “tropical paradise”, and I assure you, I’m not exaggerating.
After knocking back a refreshing bottle of Phoenix beer, I made the short but satisfying walk to my room. Crossing a sandy inlet via a wooden bridge, I passed the adults-only pool, which opens out to an infinity drop-off overlooking the postcard-esque beach. After a quick stop to gawk at the setup, I continued towards what felt like the resort’s very own tiny peninsula, with the beach and Indian Ocean on either side.
The room itself was on the first floor (or second floor if you’re from the US or Canada), and walking through the door, I had one of those moments where you realise how lucky you are to do what you do. It had everything I needed and then some, a super comfy king-size bed, a private balcony with ocean views that were bragworthy to family and friends at home, and a bathroom that felt like a mini spa, with marble everywhere, a walk-in shower, and a deep tub if you’re looking to soak before dinner after a full day in the sun.
There were some thoughtful little extras, too: a Nespresso machine, mosquito repellent, after-sun lotion, and even a beach bag ready to go. It all felt well-considered, without being over the top.
While you can obviously kick back on a lounger, bask in the sun and take in the views, there’s plenty on offer to keep you busy. In between golf (which I’ll get to shortly) and dinner, I decided to take a kayak out for a spin. After a quick chat with the staff, I plonked myself in the vessel and paddled out into the lagoon. As the island is volcanic rock raised from the Indian Ocean, most of the surrounding water is made up of shallow reefs, with the occasional pocket of deeper blue. Following some recent stormy weather, the shallows were full of sea urchins and crustaceans, so it’s worth being careful where you step.
That said, on the way back from one of the tiny islands about 150 yards offshore, I dropped my paddle to check the depth, made sure I couldn’t touch the bottom, and took the plunge. Floating in the lagoon, I turned back to admire the resort, this time from the sea, looking in. Tranquil and at ease, thinking, it doesn’t get much better than this.
Food-wise, there are loads to enjoy at Shangri-La Le Touessrok, whether you’re in the mood for something easy-going or a little more considered. TSK (Touessrok Soul Kitchen) sits at the heart of the resort and serves up dishes that blend Mauritian flavours with global influences, with terrace seating that gives you a cracking view over the pool and Hibiscus Beach. Safran is a more refined option, with rich Indian dishes coming straight from the tandoor and an atmosphere that feels warm and inviting without being too formal. And then there’s Coco’s, set right on the beach over on Frangipani islet, it’s the place for fresh seafood, local classics, and a refreshing glass of wine or a welcome cocktail. It’s easy, it’s tasty, and it’s exactly what you want after a day in the sun.
And when the sun starts to dip behind the crashing whitecaps in the distance and bellies are full, the Sega Bar is the place to be. It’s a laid-back spot that kicks into gear come evening, with ice-cold beers and delectable cocktails made using local rums and tropical fruits. As the night rolls in and heat turns into warmth, the live music picks up and the whole place fills with energy, genuine, lively, and just pure happy. It’s the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to stay for “just one more.”
And finally, as if the travel-agent-poster views, the endless activities, the five-star rooms, and the top-notch dining weren’t enough, Shangri-La Le Touessrok has its very own private island. Yes, a private island. After one of our rounds of golf (I promise I’ll get to that), we had the privilege of being taken by boat through the shallow inlets and mangroves, with sea spray acting as an occasional refresher, to Ilot Mangénie, and it’s a bit of a dream.
Complimentary shuttles run every 20 minutes from the main jetty at the resort, making it easy to nip over for a few hours of total peace and quiet. Step off the boat and you’re met with a castaway vibe, but with all the good stuff still within reach. The beach restaurant dishes up everything from seafood platters and just-caught fish served right at your table, to wood-fired truffle pizzas and cocktails made to order, there’s even a selection of local rums if you fancy going full island mode. Add in the brilliant hospitality and a beach butler on hand, and it’s hard not to settle in for the whole day.
Golf in Mauritius
Right, finally onto the golf, but in my defence, it’s hard not to ramble on when there’s so much to talk about. Mauritius is home to an array of spectacular golf courses, all crafted to meet the demands of its unique landscape.
Our first course on the trip was Anahita Golf Club. Designed by Ernie Els and opened in 2008, it’s every bit as scenic as it is satisfying to play. Set on a former sugar plantation and built to USGA standards, it’s an 18-hole, par-72 championship course that stretches out to 7,467 yards and takes full advantage of its tropical setting.
It’s what I’d describe as a superb driving course. Each tee box provides an inviting, albeit sometimes challenging, tee shot, which fills you with excitement to tee it up and send one high and far. Visually, it’s a treat. Generous fairways wind through dry-stone walls, a meandering stream, and lush greenery, with the Indian Ocean never far from view. The real showstoppers are the oceanfront holes, with six of them hugging the shoreline and approach shots that would rank among the most spectacular finishes you’ll find anywhere.
The conditioning of the course was as expected, though a little wet in places, but unfortunately, you can’t control the weather. The greens rolled true and picked up as the day went on. Though they weren’t lightning-fast, they were quick enough to ensure extra consideration over the undulations. The wide fairways were well kept and a pleasure to play from, while the rough was tough but fair. No complaints here.
Granted, I struggled to find my rhythm on the front nine, probably a mix of childlike excitement and constantly craning my neck to take it all in, but it didn’t dampen the experience one bit. Once I’d settled, I was able to make the most of the back nine and begin to appreciate the architecture on hand, plotting approaches and having to pull off well-struck drives to meet the required carry for position “A”. My only disappointment came after the 18th, when upon shaking hands with my playing partners and leaving the green, I realised it would be some time before I’ll get the opportunity to play it again.
Our second course was a very special one, not to take away from Anahita, but if you ever dreamt up the ultimate, one-of-a-kind island golf experience, there’s a good chance it’d look a lot like Ile aux Cerfs Golf Club. Set on its own island, this Bernhard Langer-designed course feels like an explorer’s discovery, reachable only by a quick boat ride from the mainland or, if you’re feeling fancy, a scenic helicopter ride. It’s a full-on tropical, Jurassic Park-feeling golf adventure from the moment you set off across the lagoon, as though Richard Attenborough should be greeting you at the dock.
The course itself spans 38 hectares and winds through thick pockets of preserved island vegetation, past volcanic rock outcrops, lakes, gullies, and wide clearings that open up to views of the Indian Ocean. Each hole offers a glimpse of the water, sometimes peeking through the trees, other times right up along the shoreline. It’s tough in places, especially from the back tees (Langer Tees play 7,115 yards), but with four tee options and a smart layout, it’s accessible for all levels.
We didn’t get the best of the weather for the round, with the winds picking up and the all-too-familiar downpours of rain for those from the UK, but we remained undeterred as the course put our abilities to the test. I was fortunate enough to be in good form on the day, with an opening bogey followed by par, birdie, eagle, that settled me in nicely and gave me the confidence to go after it.
In contrast to Anahita, Ile aux Cerfs is a plotter’s course, the opposite of a wide-stance, swing-hard driving track. Where at Anahita you’re afforded the pleasure of going after your tee shots, Ile aux Cerfs is tight, with “little room for error” landing areas if you’re hoping for a look at the pin. I found myself taking irons off most tees, especially when trying to keep it low through the swirling winds that weaved through the coastal palms, dotted in close proximity to the first cut of rough and shallow reefs.
Despite taking a bit of a battering from the storm just gone, the Langer-designed course more than held its own. The greens rolled true and deceptively quick; you were sure to be putting back the same distance if you gave it a bit too much, and the fairways were cut to a good length, not stupidly short but also not fluffy, providing a consistent lie throughout.
Whether you’re chasing a score or just happy to be in such a place, it’s the kind of round you don’t forget in a hurry. But don’t just take it from me, former Ryder Cup Captain, multiple European Tour winner, and major champion Colin Montgomerie called it a “must play”, and he’s not wrong. Life’s short and golf is fun, so if you’re hesitant to throw caution to the wind and book the trip of a lifetime, just do it, because this place doesn’t disappoint.
Verdict
Truth be told, I’m hard-pressed to think of a reason not to recommend golf in Mauritius, because there isn’t one. Shangri-La Le Touessrok is a five-star, luxury, relaxation-oriented resort that offers screensaver views at every glance with a list of activities as long as my arm, while the courses on offer are as unique as the island itself.
If you’re serious about golfing adventures and looking for something special, something a bit against the ordinary, golf in Mauritius should, without doubt, be on your list.
