One&Only Le Saint Géran

The Best Hotels in Mauritius

"With its purring supercars sporting Mauritian plates and soigné families in matching Vilebrequin, this storied resort is where the well-heeled still flock 60 years after its opening. Built in 1975 by Sol Kerzner, the 142-suite property on the east coast has morphed from a honeymooners’ paradise to family-friendly (it arguably has the best kids’ club on the island). A refit in 2017 keeps suites up to date with bespoke mid-century furniture and communal spaces based around the architecture of traditional sugar factories to keep things airy and light. Fitness is at the forefront here. There’s suave tennis pro Nicolas, who is available for lessons (book in advance); a slick spa; and a juice bar whipping up acai smoothies. However, the food is more feast than fast. The heaving breakfast spread offers both chia seed banana pudding and mountains of oozing Pont Leveque and gruyere. Restaurant Prime recalls some of the sexiest Manhattan Martini swilling steak joints and the Asian fusion restaurant delivers artful wisps of yellowtail with Jalapeno on custom Bernardin tableware. Families snooze under lapis cabana canopies by day on the main beach; the hidden bay on the other side provides wind-free waters for children and paddle boarders—just don’t go out at the same time as enthusiastic water skiers if you don’t want a humiliating tumble. A deep-tissue massage in its carrara-clad spa afterward fully restores muscles, if not pride." - Jemima Sissons