The islands in the Indian Ocean are possibly my most favourite in the world. I have phenomenal memories of holidaying in the Seychelles and the Maldives, but I’d yet to sample the famous hospitality and stunning properties in Mauritius. When asked if I would like to sample 7 of the top hotels on the island, it seemed rude to say no.
Beachcomber Hotels own properties in the finest locations on the island and as we say in the trade ‘West Is Best’. As one of the first hotel groups on the islands they had the pick of prime real estate and whilst other major names have since made Mauritius their home, they have had to settle for less superior sites.
After spending 1 week on this beautiful island, I’m completely hooked and feel confident that Mauritius really has something for everyone – it’s wonderfully accessible to all.
Flying overnight from Heathrow with Air Mauritius, our flight landed mid-morning and the welcome our group received was nothing short of worthy of royalty. Traditional Sega dancers, cocktails and canapés, made the 12 hour flight a distant memory.
Whilst there is only a 3 hour time difference, I was grateful that our first few nights were staying at Shandrani Resort & Spa which is less than 10km from the airport. This fully inclusive 5* resort is perfect for action filled holidays, families of all ages and nature lovers. Situated on a private peninsula, surrounded by a marine park, the hotel offers an exclusive eco-tourism programme, a certified sailing club, an IKO-certified kite surf school for beginners, 2 Spa’s and a PADI / National Geographic dive centre, on top of the traditional hotel facilities you would expect. All Beachcomber Hotels have fantastic ‘Bob Marlin’ kids clubs and offer an abundance of kid friendly amenities in the rooms.
We enjoyed a wonderful dinner by the beach at Le Victoria Hotel which is the hotel closest to the capital, Port Louis. For large families this is a perfect choice as the majority of rooms are inter-leading and the family apartments are spacious enough to take up to 7 (with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms).
Le Victoria Hotel, along with Le Canonnier and Le Mauricia are probably for the more budget conscious and sit at a very good 4* standard. Both Le Canonnier and Le Mauricia are within close proximity to Grand Baie, where you can find a variety of shops and eateries. The beautiful honeymoon suites at Le Mauricia have their own pools overlooking the bay and Le Canonnier has fantastic family apartments and duplexes. There is a ‘night-club’ at each resort for those who like to party into the small hours and plenty of family friendly facilities. An optional ‘all-inclusive package is available and is interchangeable between Le Canonnier and Le Mauricia.
Trou Aux Biches has to be my favourite hotel of the group, but having just had £60 million spent on its refurbishment, it no wonder why. The attention to detail is exquisite and the property is just breath-taking. With 6 restaurants and a total of 106 pools, this all-suite / villa property is at the height of luxury standards. In addition to the kids club, there is also a teen’s club and abundance of land and water sports, free of charge to guests. I would not hesitate to go back!
The positioning of Dinarobin and Paradis make these 5*+ hotels feel like you have arrived in heaven. Situated on the finest beaches of Le Mourne peninsula, this really is the address to be at! The pure white sands stretch for miles and connect the two properties, which when staying at either you have access to the others facilities. An 18 hole Par 72 international golf course wraps around the Paradis and a golf academy is based on site. By far Beachcomber Hotels jewels in the crown, the most discerning traveller will not fail to be impressed by these hotels facilities and standards of service. Dinarobin has an exclusive ‘Club’ available which combines privacy and elegance, if you so wish.
One of the most exciting parts of this trip was not just to be staying at these wonderful addresses, but to have the opportunity to sample some of the local attractions on the islands. I would highly recommend hiring a car and taking a drive around the island. Perhaps plan to end up at Chamerel in the south west of the island where you can experience two natural wonders – the seven coloured earth and the Chamarel Falls. The Rhumerie de Chamarel would be a perfect stop for lunch and also to sample the finest rum produced on the island.
For families there is a wonderful wildlife park, Les Vanille Reserve des Mascareignes where you can learn about the history of the Do-Do, see where over 1500 crocodiles are reared and also give Domino, the 95 year old giant tortoise a cuddle (275kgs).
For the thrill seekers, there is Casela Nature & Leisure park. Here you can zip wire, quad bike, Segway through the safari park and also ‘Walk with Lions’.
With a few weeks annual leave looming, I’ve no doubt where I’m taking the family this year!
For quotes on any of the above mentioned hotels or just a general chat on Mauritius, please do not hesitate to call us on 01428 658 777
