Salt of Palmar, Palmar, Mauritius - Explore & Book
"This is the antidote to a traditional resort. But don't worry, it's still got everything on your tropical island wish list: soft white sand lapped by crystal-clear water, a dreamy pool and toes-in-the-sand beach bar, an open-air restaurant serving delicious local food, and a decadent salt-themed spa. Plus 59 funky, eco-friendly rooms inspired by the bold colours of the island – sunset pink, azure blue, lush green. But at adult-only boutique hotel Salt, the resort model has been shaken up and modernised. It's geared towards 'culturally curious' travellers. There are plenty of spaces and opportunities for R&R, but guests are also encouraged to get out and about, to explore the island and meet Mauritian people (the in-room guidebook written by locals gives plenty of handy pointers). Yes, you can go kayaking and waterskiing, but you can also head out at dawn with Kishor, a local fisherman. Listen to Mauritian sega music live in the bar in the evening, then learn the dance moves the next day. A romantic table for two under the stars? No problem. But why not have supper (and homemade flavoured rum) in the home of a local Mauritian family? The idea is to connect, not to zone out. This is the future of travel: sustainable, local, transformational, but wonderfully indulgent too. Highs It's right on the beach, and from some of the rooms you can reach out and almost touch the sand Sustainability is at its core. No single-use plastics (bottles of filtered water are supplied in-room and in the restaurant) and rooms have eco-friendly features The staff, the 'Salt Shakers', are wonderful – always happy and helpful The food is fabulous – fruit, leaves and vegetables come from 100% organic farms, and all diets are catered for (there's an extensive vegan menu) Authentic curated experiences and an innovate skill swap platform to introduce guests to local Mauritian people as well as the island Lows The actual building, based on a Moroccan riad, was an existing hotel and does look a little dated Note that beds in twin rooms are very close together, and the in-room showers don't have doors - not ideal for friends Some of the Garden Rooms have views out over the car park Not for those after a fly-and-flop tropical island experience No kids under 16 allowed" - Lucy Gillmore
