Along with tourism and the export of sugar cane, golf has become one of the top sources of income for Mauritius. For such a small island there are an astonishingly high number of golf courses dotted all over the island, ranging from the Mashie course at the Shandrani Hotel in the south east of the island to the Heritage Golf and Spa Resort in Bel Ombre. But without a doubt, three of the most well known and enjoyable courses are the Ile Aux Cerfs course, the Anahita Golf course and the Tamarina Golf course, all of which are eighteen holes.

Unique on its tiny islet one kilometre off the east coast of Mauritius, the Ile Aux Cerfs Golf course designed by Bernard Langer sprawls out across a miniature island paradise. All eighteen holes have spectacular sea views, either offering tantalising glimpses of blue waters through the leafy trees or open coastal panoramas. There are nine lakes, large bunkers of the same dazzling white sand as the beaches and a number of the holes require tee shots across warm sea inlets. Although not technically on the island of Mauritius, this is the longest course in the country and boasts its own David Leadbetter Golf Academy. Ile Aux Cerfs is a mere ten minute speedboat ride from the shore of Trou D’Eau Douce and speedboats run approximately every twenty minutes. Booking in advance to play on this superb course is essential, preferably two days or more in advance and it is possible to hire complete gear and equipment on the spot.

The Anahita Golf course designed by the world-renown Ernie Els is situated on east coast of Mauritius. It is 6,741 metres in length and, in the words of its designer, boasts “spectacular rocky outcrops, large native trees and jaw-dropping views of the mountains and Indian Ocean. The 18th hole is one of the most impressive in the world”. In addition to the breath-taking views, the course has five sets of teeing areas to cater for all levels of players and a 300 metre grass practice range. The intricate design of the course which includes wide fairways and small, well-bunkered greens ensures hours of pleasure for all golfers, ranging from pros to beginners. In an informal survey carried out among golf players in Mauritius, Anahita was the most popular course on the island.

Sprawling under the magnificent and unforgettable Montagne du Rempart, the Tamarina Golf Course holds the distinction of being the first residential golf course on the island. Situated on the west coast of Mauritius, it overlooks the clear, blue waters of Tamarin Bay and is crossed by the Black River gorge and the Rempart river. The course, which meanders over 43 hectares of rugged savannah, was once a deer hunting chassé and was designed by Rodney Wright. In addition to the stunning par 72 course, Tamarin Bay has the lowest average rainfall on the island which means that almost every day can be a golfing day. Each hole has five different teeing options and the course has a 300 metre practice range. With over 6 kilometres of tracks laid out, all players are urged to use their golf carts which are fitted with a GPS navigation system.