Anse La Raie Holidays

Mauritius sits in the Indian Ocean off Africa's south-eastern coast – in the northern tip of this island nation, you'll find Anse La Raie. It's a tiny place between Calodyne and the fishing village of Cap Malheureux. The coastline harbours powder-soft beaches, while the big-town feels of Grand Baie are just a 10-minute drive away.

The north of Mauritius is often the sunniest part of the island, so it's not surprising that its beaches take their job seriously. The sea's that special shade of turquoise that tends to banish all worries, and rustling palm trees add to the calm. Find a seafront hotel to bag a sunlounger and a cocktail.

Come to Anse La Raie for the peace, but don't ignore lively Grand Baie. A 10-minute drive away, this buzzing tourist hub picks up the pace with entertainment, restaurants and excursions. You'll leave an expert in the rhythmic dance that accompanies 'sega'– Mauritius' traditional music.

Find time to sample the national drink, rhum arrangé – a rum flavoured with local fruits and spices – not to mention the street food. Mauritius' heritage means you'll find punchy Asian flavours elbowing for attention with traditional African dishes. Locals love dholl puri –thin, savoury pancakes packed with cumin and turmeric.