The most striking landmark on Mauritius's northern horizon — a sheer-sided wedge of basalt rising 165 metres from the sea, visible from anywhere along the Grand Baie coast. The island is uninhabited, designated a nature reserve in 1951, and you cannot land on it: nesting white-tailed tropicbirds and a population of skinks make it off-limits.
Most catamaran day trips from Grand Baie sail close enough for a swim and snorkel in the lee of the island. The water here is clear and the reef shelves dramatically; experienced divers can reach 30 metres on the wall. Bring a camera for the silhouette shot.