Based on history, the idea of playing golf in Mauritius was a pleasant surprise. In the 16th century, Europeans reached the paradise-like island of Mauritius when three of the eight ships of the Dutch Second Fleet were accidentally blown off course by an unexpected cyclone. The Dutch sailors found themselves facing white-sand shores. Safe and relieved, they named the island Mauritius to honour Prince Maurice of Nassau, who was not just the Stadtholder of Netherlands but also a captain-general who led a victorious rebellion against Spain. Prince Maurice was known for his military skills and was hailed as the best general of Europe during his time, making him popular and revered among sailors. It was only fitting to name an island after him.
The name “Mauritius” was auspicious and the island played various key roles in world history, becoming the safe haven of French corsairs or privateers, to a thriving sugar-producing economy, to a strategic island during the Napoleonic Wars, and now a major island of an independent Republic of Mauritius, a country that includes other islands, such as Rodrigues, St. Brandon, and Agalega. Today, the military legacy of the island Mauritius has transformed to suit the demand of the times. Instead of seeking safety, people visit the island to experience the one-of-a-kind golf in Mauritius.
Playing golf in Mauritius is similar to enjoying wonderland. The excellent quality of golf courses and the undeniable beauty of the environment make the experience of golfers unforgettable and pleasurable. And such experience can be had in four major areas, the Vacoas at the centre of the island, the Bellemare in Flacg on the eastern side, the Trou aux Biches in the north, and Le Morne.
Vacoas Golfing
In Vacoas, golf in Mauritius is primarily exclusive within the 18-hole golf course of the private club of Gymkana. It is the ideal location for small groups of friends who enjoy the challenge of the game and the privacy of accommodations.
Golf in Flacq
In Falcq, there are five distinct golf courses, making golf in Mauritius a considerably diverse experience. For example, an international setting is experienced in the golf course named The Links. This 18-holf course, designed with impressive rolling fairways by Rodney Wright and Peter Allis, is the venue of the Mauritius Golf Open, which is participated by 150 amateurs and 70 professional golfers from more than 22 countries. The use of golf carts is a must on this golf course. In another golf course, known as Legend, the golf in Mauritius experience attains championship levels. Designed by the African champion Hugh Baiocchi, the golf course is built on high-quality Tif Dwarf grasses and characterized by a central indigenous forest and nerve-wracking challenging holes, particularly the 17th.
Trou aux Biches Golfing
In Trou aux Biches, the golf in Mauritius experience is akin to a paradise adventure. Surrounded by the lush gardens of Shandrani, the golfers can hone their skills in this exciting 9-hole course. The greens and pitch-and-putt setup is ideal for golfers who have ambitious plans for this sport.
Playing Golf in Le Morne
And in Le Morne, the golf in Mauritius experience is unparalleled by the amazing almost 6,000-meter stretch of golf course that is between the Le Morne mountain and the white sand beach. Designed by David Dutton, the scenic environment may compete with its par-72 challenges.
Must-Have Golfing
The golf in Mauritius experience, however, cannot be complete without returning to the eastern side of the island and riding in a water taxi to reach the Ile aux Cerfs Golf Course. The 18-hole course, designed by Bernard Langer, is the longest in the island at more than 7,000 yards. The sheer size of the area alone can lead to the longest game of golf in Mauritius. But the golfers had to overcome the challenges of tee shots that must clear sea inlets and the distraction of ocean views.