At Kenwood Travel, new hotels are our bread and butter or, for a more travelistic analogy, our brioche and barbecue buttered shrimp, served beneath the stars on a private beach, natch. We acquire new hotels all around the world all the time but today we’re talking Mauritius. Why? Because it’s one of the most talked-about holiday destinations imaginable and, well, because we just released our shiny new Mauritius brochure, FREE to see and drool over online NOW.
We’ve three New Mauritius Hotels to bring to your attention, each with its own unique take on what makes the perfect island escape. We have a hotel whose name translates as ‘Local Attitude’ (i.e. unpretentious and laid-back); a resort with a penchant for giving mum and dad the day off (i.e. hostess-supervised kids’ club); and a luxury hideaway that perches proudly on the island’s best beach (i.e. paradise).
Zilwa Attitude
Opened – November 2013. Verdict – Hitting its stride.
Best for – Couples and families.
Dining – Delicious range of cuisine, from spicy local specialities to global favourites. ‘Dine around’ option delivers the full experience across six restaurants. Verdict – 9/10
Fresh and delicious dining at Zilwa Attitude
Character – Mauritian Island locals are a famously relaxed bunch. Zilwa – meaning islander in Creole – follows suit by blending thatched architecture with contemporary comforts to create a casual vibe. Palm islands emerging from the swimming pools, meanwhile, emulate the surrounding tropical charms. Verdict – Authentic.
Location – Beachfront. Sits in its own sunkissed bay on the northern point of the island. Close to the popular Grand Baie beaches. Verdict – Sitting pretty.
Service – Dutiful without being patronising. Verdict – 9/10
Rooms – All accommodation faces the ocean and is designated based either on couples or family suitability. Driftwood-style décor continues the rustic-chic feel. Verdict – 9/10
Kids Club – Yes
Outrigger Mauritius Resort & Spa
Opened – April 2014. Verdict – Hot property.
Best for – Honeymooners, families, watersports fans.
Dining – Seven bars and restaurants. Fresh, sizzling shellfish and grills at the stylish beach bar, contemporary Mauritian dining amid French Colonial décor, and tastes of the Med plus north and south Asian dishes are just some of the highlights. Wash it down with an innovative cocktail selection at Bar Bleu or visit the wine cellar. Verdict – Seventh heaven.
Character – Outrigger has managed to create an exclusive brand of holiday perfection using design touches indicative of the nature on its doorstep. Vaulted ceilings and open wall venues bring the outside in. An excellent selection of watersports that includes guided snorkelling, kitesurfing and paddle boating lends a lively atmosphere during the day, too. Verdict – 9/10
Aventures in adrenalin: kitesurfing at Outrigger
Location – Enjoys an idyllic private beach setting in the beautiful Bel Ombre region of Mauritius’ southwestern tip. Verdict – A secluded suntrap.
Service – Expect an authentic Mauritian welcome that lasts for the duration of your stay. Verdict – 9/10
Rooms – With all the mod-cons (LCD TV, WiFi, AC) we expect for a switched-on experience, rooms here are complemented by understated designs and chic luxury. Sea View or Beachfront aspect with suites and villas available for families and groups. Verdict – 9/10
Kids Club – Yes
Maritim Crystals Beach Hotel
Opened – September 2014. Verdict – Box fresh.
Best for – Spa enthusiasts, couples, families.
Dining – Something sumptuous for everyone. Relax with a cocktail and a sea view at the Beach Bar or get dressed to the nines and dine in style at Villebague – there’s a reputation growing here for the best gourmet cuisine on the island. You can also sit down to authentic Creole fare and there are live cooking stations and a sushi corner to discover. Verdict – Eclectic.
Character – Elegant with a touch of casual. The focus is relaxation, with waiters serving drinks on the beach, so take the hint and sit back, sip your favourite tipple and soak up the sun. The sublime spa encourages the laid back approach further with wellness choices from manicures to beach massages. Verdict – Beachfront bliss.
Location – Pride of place alongside an 800m private beach on the island’s north-east coastline. Perfect for those panoramic Indian Ocean views. Verdict – Picture perfect.
Service – With a smile. Verdict – Impeccable
Rooms – Families are catered for especially well with the Deluxe Family option. All rooms are fresh and bright with ultra-modern design and meticulous furnishings. Private terraces or balconies see to those private moments. Verdict – 9/10
Kids Club – Yes. Ask about TI DODO.
‘Elegant with a touch of casual’