Mauritius is a little golfing jewel set in the Indian Ocean. Warm temperatures keep the muscles loose, the sea breeze keeps the brain from frying and there is always a beach close by for apres-golf activities.

The courses themselves are spectacular, as these photos bear witness, but they are also fine tests of golf.

Anahita

Set alongside he crystal clear waters of the lagoon and fringed by tropical trees and plant life, the wide fairways of the Ernie Els-designed course are overlooked by the distinctive cone-shaped mountains of Mauritius’ interior.

Belle Mare Plage - Legends

A beautiful examination of golf that weaves its way through thick forest. It’s a tight and technical challenge that calls for expert shot-making and is reminiscent of the great European tree-lined courses, with a tropical twist.

Belle Mare Plage - Links

Wider than its sister course, the Legends, and co-designed by commentating legend Peter Allis, the Links course has sweeping fairways that often require the golfer to negotiate the boulders that centuries of volcanic activity have left behind.

Ile aux Cerfs Golf Club

This Bernhard Langer-designed layout occupies an island just off the coast and requires a boat trip to reach the first tee. It’s a dramatic experience thereafter on a course that offers sensational sea views and is well-known for being one of the tightest tracks in the world.

Heritage

One of the island’s hillier courses, Heritage is protected by many lakes and streams. Designer Peter Maktovich has created a classic risk and rewards test - one the European Tour will take on in the inaugural AfraAsia Bank Mauritius Open.

Paradis

Sometimes snaking through the trees, sometimes flirting with the lagoon, Paradis is a golfing paradise with plenty of bite. But with the mountain peaks in the distance and golden beaches a flop shot away, you’ll not be too wrapped up in your score.

Photos: Four Seasons Anahita, Legend & Links at Constance Belle Mare Plage, Ile aux Cerfs Golf Club, Heritage Resorts, Paradis at Beachcomber Hotels