Lux Grand Gaube, Mauritius Hotel

Mauritius

The epitome of island escapism, with its colourful reefs, lush, forest-topped mountains and rolling plains, Mauritius is a jumping-off point for tropical adventures. Leading the charge of worthy resorts, LUX* are the Mauritius masters, with six properties under their belt. Their LUX* Grand Gaube addition is a lesson in barefoot luxury. Wrapping around two secluded crescent-shaped bays on the island’s northern fringe, the 186-room, sea-facing property is set just steps back from the golden sands of the palm-lined shoreline.

When it comes to design, retro-chic is the resort’s calling card. Overhauled by Kelly Hoppen, natural materials come to the fore – the likes of hand-woven African baskets, wicker chairs and vintage rattan pieces – while the whitewashed walls and thatched roofs are designed to blend into the landscape. Plant-filled spaces, sepia tiling and calming tones add to the serenity. In an island nation famed as a culinary melting pot, the resort’s gastronomy is no exception. Sample the freshest seafood ceviche at Mauritius’s only Peruvian restaurant, head to the buzzy market-style Palm Court, dine beneath a pretty light-strung banyan tree at Creole Smokehouse, or don a beekeeping suit to help tend the six on-site hives – followed by a tasting and honey-cocktail workshop.

Snorkelling gear at the ready — there’s no shortage of ways to spend your leisure time. You might start with a morning kayak, unwind at the world-class spa, sample rum at nearby Château de Labourdonnais, then dine beneath star-filled skies. Those bringing the whole family will appreciate the thoughtfully designed kids’ area, complete with activities to keep younger guests entertained. Meanwhile, couples can retreat to the serene adults-only peninsula, where hammocks swing between palms and the pace slows.

Doubles from £174.

Words by Megan Dickson.

This article was taken from the June 2025 issue of Food and Travel. To subscribe today, click here.