June 27, 2008

Africa & Mideast | Mauritius

Grand Designs

By Judy D'Mello

Where the Indian Ocean meets the Luxury Collection.

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The stratospheric rise of tourism in Mauritius may be easing, but that doesn’t mean the island paradise is going the way of the dodo. More and more lavish resorts are sprinkling the tiny nation, with Four Seasons’ Anahita debuting October 1, and The Grand Mauritian, opening next week as Starwood’s first Luxury Collection outpost in the Indian Ocean.

The 20-acre beachfront resort nestles between coral reefs and sugar cane fields along the northwestern coast at Turtle Bay, a protected marine park. In addition to 171 guestrooms and 20 suites, the retreat offers two ultra-exclusive presidential villas with private terraces and water views worthy enough for real presidents (Mauritius counts Nelson Mandela among its chic-set) and men who have played presidents (that would be Michael Douglas).

When you’re not soaking up rays on the powder-white beach, you can cool off in the resort’s two (heated) outdoor pools — one is exclusively for adults, while kiddies stay happily cocooned at the Kids’ Club. And though there’s an endless list of water sports (think snorkeling, diving, kite-surfing), you can also explore the island’s terrestrial treasures on tours of Mauritius’ exotic interiors. Don’t worry about overexerting yourself either: the Grand Mauritian’s “spa butlers” will see to any aching muscles in 12 spa suites with private gardens.