Mauritius, the Beachcomber way

Lynde-Lee Opperman on 25 November 2015
Having been to Mauritius a couple of times, and after only ever seeing one Beachcomber Hotel, I was very excited to get this opportunity to see what Beachcomber had to offer. I have always considered Mauritius to be a Honeymoon beach island, and I was looking forward to seeing what was on offer.

I got a chance to see all of their properties, Shandrani, Paradis, Dinarobin, Le Mauricia, Royal Palm, Le Victoria, Trou Aux Biches and Le Canonnier.

From day one, I realised that my idea of Mauritius being only a beach holiday, was greatly wrong.

Each of the properties offered great beaches, and then above that, they each had added extras which proved, Mauritius is more than just a tan.

I have photos and information on each of the hotels, and would love to recommend to you as to which one would suit you best. There is way too much info to include on this one blog, so I will just highlight a thing or two about each resort that caught my eye.

Shandrani It is super close to the airport. Close, but not annoyingly close. After your flight, it is a quick 15 minute drive and you are already sipping your first cocktail. And, speaking of cocktails, this resort offers a wonderful All inclusive package, which I would recommend. A choice of 3 fantastic beaches. A wild one with REAL waves, a calm swimming beach and a beautiful beach right in from of the main building.

Paradis A super duper amazing golf course, a fantastic boat house with a wide range of water sports, from kite surfing to sailing and water skiing, snorkelling to wind surfing. And then, a wonderful platform on the beach for morning Yoga classes. This is definitely a sporty persons paradise. The beach is amazing, but you will feel too guilty to just sit and sip cocktails while a world of activities await. Keep in mind, Beachcomber offers unlimited free non motorised water sports, and water skiing.

Dinarobin This is a hidden gem. Boardering on Paradis, you get to use all of Paradis facilities, from the restaurants, to the water sports and golf. Situated at the foot of Le Morne, it has the most spectacular views, sea or mountain facing. Dinarobin boasts an Adults only crescent. In addition to the adults only pool, there is also an alfresco beach bar area. It is sophisticated, elegant and a timeless beauty.

Le Mauricia Fun, light hearted, vibey, young and active. Right in the heart of Grand Baie. It was wonderful to grab a bite to eat for breakfast and then take a 5 minute stroll along the beach to Grand Baie. Have somea henna tattoo, buy some souvenirs and then take off my flip flops and stroll back along the waters edge to jump into my bikini and go swimming in the sea. The rooms are bright and airy. The pool area is large and welcoming. Nightlife at Le Mauricia is wonderful, but if you do happen to get bored, you are 5 minutes away from island-style clubs and discos.

Royal Palm It is quiet, private, exclusive and beautiful. Set next to Le Mauricia in Grand Baie, it is one of the Leading Hotels of the world. The natural rocks on the side of the hotel, make this beach very private. With only 69 suites - exclusivity is guaranteed. The hotel has hosted royals, political leaders, movie stars and sports stars who have enjoyed the privacy of its quiet beach, restaurants serving only the finest food and wines, and above all, the privilege of anonymity. If you are looking to just disappear and enjoy the resort, this is it!

Le Victoria With large rooms, (large enough for 2 adults and 2 kids), a long beach (1.4 km long), and spacious hotel grounds, even if this hotel is fully booked, you feel like there is room for more. Wonderful snorkelling in the marine park close to the shore, a fantastic kiddies club and lively evening entertain which is open air. With the majority of the guests being from South Africa, you can be sure to make some new “not-local” local friends.

Trou Aux Biches I left a part of my heart at this resort. My definite favourite. Run by the most amazing Mauritian woman who has won a Presidents award for her contribution to Tourism in Mauritius, you can be assured that every bit of your holiday will be just perfect. This eco-friendly resort boasts over 100 swimming pools, a 20 cabin Spa by Clarins, an extensive Boat house, with everything from paddle boating, to stand up paddling and water skiing. Six amazing restaurants, each with their own vibe.

Le Canonnier Caught by surprise. This resort captured my heart. The last resort that I got to see and experience before leaving the island. My stay started with an Archery lesson right at the resort. The instructors were wonderful and patient and got me to the bulls-eye. The beaches are small, yet spacious and so varied. If you take the All Inclusive option at this resort, it is fully interchangeable with the nearby Le Mauricia. The Spa by Clarins is so unique and is set in the branches of an old Banyan tree. The Kiddies club is in an old Lighthouse which is sure to capture all children. The atmosphere is very relaxed throughout the resort. Large beanbags are scatted on beach sand, where you can lay back, sip on a cocktail and relax under the palm trees. Le Navigator has wonderful panoramic views of the north of the island and serves as a restaurant, and later an open air nightclub. This resort definitely ticks all the boxes.

During my time on the island, we took some time to visit 2 Rum distilleries, a Sugar mill and some of the local sites at Grand Basin and Black River Gorges.

We ventured into Port Louis and participated in an Amazing Race activity. This was a wonderful opportunity to get to interact with the locals, try local dishes and drinks, to experience the fruit and vegetable markets, learn about their history, visit the new Waterfront area and learn. Port Louis is not to be over looked on your island holiday.

Not to be missed on your island holiday, is a catamaran cruise. It is a wonderful way to experience one of Mauritius sunsets.

Mauritius, more than just a tan.