Alicia Rountree’s Insider Guide to Mauritius

Alicia Rountree embodies the spirit of a modern polymath. Beyond her work as a Victoria’s Secret model and aspiring actress, she’s the creator of a ballet-inspired fitness app and co-founder of New York’s chic Tartinery restaurant chain. Balancing her global ventures with a deep connection to her roots, Alicia shares an intimate look at the hidden gems and vibrant culture of her homeland, Mauritius.

Island Roots & Global Life Born and raised in Mauritius, Alicia now splits her time between London and New York. Fluent in French, English, Mauritian Creole, and Italian, she thrives in multicultural environments but finds true peace in the simplicity of her island home. Her childhood, spent exploring sugarcane fields and climbing trees, instilled a lifelong appreciation for nature and a grounded perspective on happiness.

Beyond the Runway When not modeling, Alicia fills her days with outdoor adventures—hiking, horseback riding, or swimming with dolphins. A self-proclaimed wellness enthusiast, she prioritizes yoga, pilates, and nourishing vegetarian meals. Her top travel tip? Pack healthy snacks to avoid relying on lackluster airport food.

Alicia’s Mauritius Itinerary

Stay Here:

• LUX Belle Mare (East Coast):* A serene retreat with powdery sands and turquoise waters. Unwind at the Mari Kontan bar with a fresh juice cocktail as the sun dips below the horizon.

Breakfast Spots:

• The Plantation Club (Bel Ombre): A colonial-style gem serving breakfast in a lush, tropical setting.
• Under a Palm Tree: For the ultimate island vibe, crack open a fresh coconut and savor it barefoot on the beach.

Morning Adventures:

• Le Pouce Mountain Hike: Tackle this trail at dawn for panoramic views of Mauritius from the summit.
• La Vanille Nature Park: Get up close with giant tortoises, crocodiles, and free-roaming deer in this wildlife sanctuary.

Lunch Like a Local:

• Street Food Delights: Don’t miss dholl puri—a savory chickpea pancake stuffed with curries and chutneys, often hailed as Mauritius’ unofficial national dish.

Afternoon Escapes:

• Pointe d’Esny Beach: Swim in crystal-clear waters along one of the island’s longest stretches of white sand.
• 7 Cascade Waterfalls Hike: Trek through lush forest to discover a series of cascading natural pools.

Sunset Magic:

• Horseback Riding at Riambelle: Gallop along the beach as the sky turns golden, organized by Riambelle’s equestrian center.

Dinner & Nightlife:

• Le Comptoir du Marché (Curepipe): A farm-to-table restaurant where the chef crafts inventive dishes using hyper-local ingredients.
• Homegrown Feasts: Alicia’s family dinners spotlight garden-fresh vegetables, a testament to Mauritius’ fertile soil.
• The Irish Pub (Central Mauritius): End the night with a decadent chocolate lava cake and lively atmosphere.

Mauritian Secrets

• Cultural Melting Pot: The island’s diversity shines through its blend of Hindu, Muslim, Christian, and Creole traditions.
• Kitesurfing Paradise: Head to Pryde Club, a watersports hub run by pro kitesurfer Evgeny Novozheev, for adrenaline-fueled adventures.

Must-Try Dish:

• Poisson Salé Bouillon: A hearty stew of salted fish, rice, lentils, and watercress, bursting with bold flavors.

Local Phrases to Know:

• Tou korek? – “Is everything okay?”
• Ki manier? – “How are you?”
• Ki so pri? – “How much is this?”

Final Note Mauritus is more than pristine beaches—it’s a tapestry of outdoor thrills, culinary treasures, and warm, multicultural charm. Whether hiking volcanic peaks, savoring street food, or dancing under the stars, Alicia’s guide proves this island is anything but ordinary.