The Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita is tucked away in the eastern corner of the island. Port Louis, the capital, is just over an hour away by car and the drive from the airport to the resort – along tight, winding roads – was a wonderful introduction to the country’s landscape and local life. On my right was an endless view of vibrant sugar cane fields – a testament to the island’s rich history in sugar production – against the dramatic backdrop of the mountains. On my left was the tranquil and turquoise Indian Ocean. Eventually, a black gate appeared. As it opened, the driver announced, “this is the gateway to paradise”. He wasn’t wrong.
Breakfast in the pool
The resort is situated beside pristine, white sandy beaches, the lagoon and the clear waters of the Indian Ocean. The property is a secluded estate spread across 64 acres, offering guests a sense of exclusivity and calm – ideal for those seeking a luxurious retreat surrounded by nature. There are 90 one- and two-bedroom villas. I stayed in a garden pool villa, where I had my own hidden courtyard. But my favourite thing was the private pool amid the vibrant greenery of the garden. It was the perfect place to enjoy breakfast from a tray, floating on the water.
There was also an outdoor shower to add a surreal touch. Inside the villa, the decor had a contemporary feel and the neutral, brown tones enhanced the serene atmosphere of the rooms. The comfortable, king-size bed faced the garden so I was able to admire its natural beauty from the moment I woke up. Other villa options include those with views of the beach and ocean, and there are 45 two to five-bedroom villas for larger groups.
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Snorkelling with seahorses
There’s no need to venture outside the resort because you have everything on your doorstep. There’s a kids’ club for four- to nine-year-olds, plus a separate club for teenagers. There’s a gym if you need your fix, and a personal trainer can be arranged on request. The resort offers a range of sports activities, too. The Four Seasons has its own golf club, a tennis court (again, with an instructor on request) and you can take part in yoga classes while taking in the dreamy view. Each guest is also given the use of their own bike to make getting around the resort easier. Among the other activities on offer, snorkelling is a must. I was even lucky enough to stumble across seahorses.
Rejuvenate at the spa
Those on a relaxing retreat will be glad to know about the award-winning spa. The 12 treatment rooms have been built over the water in the natural lagoon, making the spa one of the best places to rejuvenate. Speaking of relaxation, it wouldn’t be a resort without beaches.
The Four Seasons’ three beaches each offer something different. Close by are the main beach and the quiet beach. The resort also has a private beach on Ile aux Cerfs, which is only for use by guests of the Four Seasons. This little island is a short boat ride away and, once there, you can indulge in the beach bar and grill.
Indulging in Mauritian culture
One evening I was dining on the beach, listening to the waves roll in, when the pulsating beats of the traditional Sega music caught my attention. I picked up on the traces of Indian influence in the Creole dance that reminded me of the Hindu festival, Navaratri, that I celebrate at home. Most of the 1.2 million Mauritian population is made up of those of Hindu Indian origin. Creole, Muslim, Christian and Chinese communities are also prominent in the country and they have each left their mark on the national cuisine.
The resort has seven restaurants and bars, including those offering Japanese, seafood and Indian dishes. The cacio e pepe (cheese and black pepper) pasta dish at the resort’s Italian restaurant, Acquapazza is a must. The restaurant is run by Michelin-star chef Marco Garfagnini. For a snack or lunch, head to Bambou – an open-air eatery overlooking the pool and beach. Wherever you decide to eat, you can’t leave without indulging in Mauritius’s homegrown tropical fruit, including pineapples, mangoes, starfruit and papaya.
The perfect end to the stay
The Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita is perfect for those looking to blend a tropical luxury stay with a deep connection to nature.
The resort provides everything you need for a relaxing holiday – the award-winning spa, the three immaculate beaches and seven world-class dining options. For nature lovers, it’s also a haven for adventure. One of my most unforgettable experiences was hiking the Mont Beau Champ hill – a rewarding 90-minute trek with breathtaking views at the top that you simply can’t miss. Another highlight for me – and one I highly recommend if you are a foodie – was the cooking class, taught by chef Ravi from the resort’s Indian restaurant, Chatkar. He showed us how to make delicious Mauritian samosas. It was the perfect end to the trip.
Vaishali was a guest of Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita. From £500 a night, fourseasons.com/mauritius
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