The south-west of Mauritius is famously wild, with the craggy peak of Le Morne rising above the lagoon, kite surfers gliding across windswept waters and birds flitting through the verdant forests of Chamarel and the Black River Gorges National Park. This is, in many ways, the island's cultural heartland. Once a refuge for those who escaped enslavement in the north during the French era, the south-west still reverberates with the thrumming beats of the sega, played under the shade of towering casuarina trees as day gives way to evening.
Many of the best places to stay in the south-west of Mauritius are impressive seaside resorts with elegant guest rooms, multiple swimming pools, soothing spas and gourmet eateries. Some are brilliant for families, whilst others are more couple-focused; ideal for romantic honeymoons or special celebrations. There are excellent golf courses in the area, too, including the Tamarina Golf Course, Paradis Golf Club and Bel Ombre.
Venture inland to leafy Chamarel for laid-back boutique lodges and farmhouses with beautiful views and a real sense of seclusion — though you're just 15 minutes' drive to the beach. Keen ramblers, cyclists and bird watchers will adore exploring this part of the island. It's also enormously tempting to simply hide away, soaking up the sunshine from your private terrace, enjoying rejuvenating massages and tucking in to fragrant seafood or venison curries followed by a glass or two of Mauritian rum.
For a Romantic Resort
- Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Wellness Resort is situated right on the sea in dazzling Bel Ombre. Chic guest rooms feel elegant and romantic, with draped four-poster beds and cosy seating. There are multiple swimming pools and a lively beach club — which does welcome families — but the bars and eateries feel grown-up and romantic. Play a round of golf, hone your kite surfing skills, or enjoy candlelit fine dining à deux.
- LUX* Le Morne is brilliant for romantic breaks and indulgent honeymooners. Expect spacious white-on-white guest rooms with sea views, big balconies and generous bathtubs. The resort — and the wider LUX group — has a strong eco-focus, and the vibe is tranquil yet sophisticated. Sundowners in the treehouse, gourmet dinners and water sports excursions on the lagoon are particular highlights.
For Families
- Paradis Golf Resort & Spa has a classic, timeless feel, with dark polished wood and blue-and-white patterned textiles in guest rooms with ocean views. The golf course is a highlight, with its own Golf Academy offering lessons to young golfers as well as adults. The children's swimming pool and various water sports opportunities are ideal for families. A five-star favourite.
- Maradiva Resort & Spa has stylish multi-bedroom villas with pools, perfect for trips with family and friends. Enjoy a plethora of water sports including kayaking and kite surfing, savour Japanese or Indian fare, plus fresh seafood at excellent eateries, and soothing spa treatments, cooking classes or games of tennis. Lively and good fun, especially with teens.
For Intimate Charm
- Lakaz Chamarel is a rare boutique hotel on an island still known for its expansive resorts. Hidden near Chamarel, this romantic retreat offers draped four-poster beds in suites with plunge pools, wooden antiques and panoramic mountain views. There's a soothing spa for rejuvenating treatments, a delicious restaurant showcasing Mauritian specialities, and a real sense of character. Superb.
- Kaz'alala Hosted B&B sits just a few hundred metres from the Château de Bel Ombre and the golf course. Leafy gardens are studded with four cottages — available to book by the room or house — with shared kitchens and terraces. There's a refreshing swimming pool nestled between flowering trees, and birds flitting overhead. Although marketed as a B&B, this spot not only serves big buffet breakfasts, but also simple Mauritian lunches and dinners — and a good selection of rum! Wander across to Heritage for drinks and dinner at the C Beach Club one evening. Charming, low-key and lovely.
- La Vieille Cheminée is a hugely popular farm stay in Chamarel with a brilliant reputation for friendliness and warmth. Individual lodges are simple and rustic, with kitchens, sitting rooms and terraces, as well as bbq areas. Guests are invited to roam around the farm on marked paths, picking vegetables, dipping in the hilltop pool and riding the horses or feeding the chickens. Homemade breakfasts are delivered each morning, and dinner can be arranged on request. A wholesome hideaway with a community feel for couples, friends and families.
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