Mauritius, an island nation castaway 1,200 miles off the coast of Madagascar on the east coast of Africa, is a nation of enterprise and looking forward. Now, it is emerging from two consecutive blows: an epic oil spill in 2020 and a throttling COVID lockdown which cut off its main source of income for two years. While some other tourist destinations were swift to get their industry back on track, Mauritius stayed closed until October 2021.
For nature lovers, the island is landscaped with verdant trails and pirouetting birds—from lime-green Echo Parakeets to teal-capped Mascarene Paradise Flycatchers. It may not have the private island feel of the Maldives or the Indiana Jones giant fauna and tropical jungle of the Seychelles, but offers faultless service, activity (golf, and then some more golf, hiking, and biking), and farm-to-table gastronomy. With its burgeoning boutique rum industry and host of emerging artisans— from textiles to ceramics—be sure to pack an empty suitcase for your return journey.
Travelers who venture here are richly rewarded, with newly refurbed retreats, pristine beaches and, at present, amazingly good rates (some five-star spots start from $256 a night). These resorts lure some of the finest Gallic talent to their kitchens from Michelin titans such as Paris’ George V. But the tourist ecosystem is also dominated by some exceptional homegrown brands who are shaping the country’s industry with a proud, hands-on approach.
How we choose the best hotels in Mauritius
Every hotel on this list has been selected independently by our editors and written by a Condé Nast Traveller journalist who knows the destination and has stayed at that property. When choosing hotels, our editors consider both luxury properties and boutique and lesser-known boltholes that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination. We’re always looking for beautiful design, a great location, and warm service—as well as serious sustainability credentials.
Which part of Mauritius is best to stay in?
Many of the best hotels in Mauritius are spread out around the coastline, from One&Only Le Saint Géran in Poste de Flacq on the northeastern side of the island to Heritage Le Telfair in Bel Ombre on the southwest coast. If you’re excited to snorkel in Mauritius, you’ll find the best conditions along the west side of the island, particularly near Flic En Flac beach. For easy swimming, opt for a hotel on the west coast where the seas tend to be calmer and warmer. For complete privacy, Shangri-La Le Touessrok is located on its own private island.
All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
