Le Méridien ★★★★

Few places on earth can rival the pure natural beauty of Mauritius. The island’s name alone conjures up exotic images of an unspoiled desert island boasting some of the world’s finest beaches, a surprising wealth of historic sights and cultural intrigue, and a laid-back, welcoming attitude. There are breath-taking landscapes with dramatic waterfalls, volcanic mountains and tropical forests. Meanwhile, the unique blend of European and Asian culture is fascinating, with colonial plantation mansions sitting alongside Hindu shrines and ancient temples.

Despite Mauritius’s diverse and intriguing riches, the beaches are what makes it so famous as an exotic island paradise, and in this respect Le Méridien Ile Maurice certainly has you covered. It is set right on the beachfront, with the crystalline, sapphire coloured waters of the ocean almost lapping against the front door, and only a row of palm trees separating the hotel from the long strip of powdery, dazzling white sand.

The location is truly spectacular, but the hotel is not to be outdone by Mother Nature, providing its guests an impeccable service and supremely luxurious facilities. What’s more, the range of facilities and activities on offer makes Le Méridien perfect for any occasion, ensuring you will never want for things to do when you fancy a break from sunning yourself on the sandy beach.

Families will love the spacious family rooms, the huge swimming pool, the kids club and the range of sporting activities, including tennis, beach football, volleyball and various water sports. Meanwhile, couples can stay in the adults-only Nirvana wing of the hotel, which offers an exclusive infinity pool far from splashing children. The spa also provides a soothing spot for a little grown-up relaxation, with treatments blending traditional Ayurvedic practises with the latest spa technology and techniques. Also featuring a fitness centre, exercise classes and some outstanding spa facilities, this is almost as perfect a spot to chill out and enjoy the slow-paced Mauritius lifestyle as the beach!

There are some things on offer which everyone will appreciate, for example the countless excursions provided by the hotel. Be it a bike tour, scuba diving, swimming with dolphins or a boat trip along the beautiful coastline or out to the remote, tiny islands to the north, Le Méridien is always ready to make your exploration of Mauritius as fun and memorable as possible. And at the end of the day, whether you are in a family room or a cosy room for two, you can be assured of some top notch four star facilities, a gorgeous bathroom and some easy-on-the-eye style. On top of all this, the rooms boast phenomenal views – get an ocean view room for a perfect vantage point over the spectacular Mauritius sunsets.

To complete the perfect holiday destination, Le Méridien has plenty of options when it comes to dining, all of which offer some outstanding cuisine. The breakfast spread is always copious and delicious, and later on you can choose between beachside snacks, themed buffets, Mediterranean delicacies or an Indian feast at any of the four superb restaurants. As you end each day full of exquisite food and fine wine, watching the ocean twinkling in the moonlight and listening to the gentle sounds of the rolling waves, you know you have found a little slice of paradise on a truly incredible island.