The tiny tropical island in Africa that's a balmy 27C in September

As autumn weather rolls in across the UK, thousands of holidaymakers are eyeing up Mauritius, the small island nation in the Indian Ocean that offers year-round sunshine, turquoise seas and average September highs of 27C.

Mauritius may be tiny on the map, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in sheer variety. Located about 1,200 miles off the southeast coast of Africa, the volcanic island is surrounded by lagoons and coral reefs, with sugarcane fields, mountains and rainforests dominating its lush interior.

Once a French and later a British colony, Mauritius gained independence in 1968, and today it thrives as one of Africa's most stable and prosperous nations.

Its cultural mix is as rich as its landscapes: Creole, Indian, Chinese, African and European influences are everywhere, from the languages spoken (English, French and Mauritian Creole are common) to the food. With curries, fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and the island's famous rum.

For beach lovers, Mauritius hardly needs an introduction. Resorts stretch along white sandy shores where palm trees sway in the breeze and watersports are plentiful.

Snorkelling and scuba diving reveal kaleidoscopic reefs filled with parrotfish, angelfish and turtles. The island is also considered one of the best kitesurfing destinations in the world, particularly around Le Morne peninsula.

Away from the coast, Mauritius offers hiking trails through Black River Gorges National Park, where you'll find waterfalls, rare bird species like the pink pigeon, and panoramic views from peaks such as Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire.

Nature lovers also flock to Chamarel, famous for its seven-coloured earth dunes and nearby rum distilleries.

For history buffs, the capital Port Louis showcases colonial architecture, a bustling market, and the UNESCO-listed Aapravasi Ghat, where indentured labourers first arrived from India in the 19th century.

Elsewhere, visitors can tour tea plantations, wander botanic gardens at Pamplemousses, or visit the small but moving museums dedicated to slavery and indentured migration.

September is one of the best times to visit, sitting between the wetter summer months and cyclone season. Days are long and sunny, the humidity is low, and the sea is warm enough for swimming and diving.

It's also quieter than the Christmas and New Year rush, with better deals to be found at hotels and resorts.

With direct flights from London taking around 12 hours, Mauritius has become a favourite for honeymooners, families and adventurers alike.

Visitors on TripAdvisor have accurately described it as a "paradise with personality", an island that combines postcard-perfect beaches with culture, history and adventure.

Whether you're sipping cocktails on Flic-en-Flac beach, hiking volcanic peaks, exploring colourful markets, or spotting dolphins at sunrise, Mauritius offers a little bit of everything, all under a reliably tropical September sun.