In the smorgasbord of travel destinations and experiences to be had, there are some places that don’t so much change you as spoil you for life.
Le Touessrok hotel on the east coast of the palm-fringed island of Mauritius is one of those places: think unparalleled luxury in an exquisite, almost-too-good-to-be-true setting.
Standing at the entrance to the hotel, a giant, ancient banyan tree with a myriad birdcages that light up at night is the first hint of the magic that lies within; once inside, a rich creamy palette that glows under evocative lighting, striking mosaics in the reception area and swathes of diaphanous material billowing gently in the breeze cast a romantic spell (it’s hardly surprising that Le Touessrok is consistently cited as a top honeymoon haven). Walkways through tropical gardens and bridges over crystalline water connect the main part of the hotel to the rooms, deluxe suites and villas, all of which have direct access to private beaches. While soaking up the sun on a lounger and taking lazy dips in the warm water is what Mauritius is all about, at Le Touessrok it’s difficult to consider even leaving your room – thanks to luxe furnishings, an egg-shaped bath that you could do laps in, and – luxury of luxuries – your own butler who’s at your beck and call 24 hours a day. Special touches include having your bath run for you so that it’s ready and waiting after dinner, an aromatherapy scent of your choice during turn-down, and breakfast brought to your room – eating it on your balcony while watching dawn paint the sea a rosy hue is a singular pleasure.
A treatment at the hotel’s luxury Givenchy Spa; candlelit dinner perched above the sea at acclaimed Indian restaurant Safran; sundowners and contemporary fusion food at beachside bar and restaurant, Barlen’s; a boat trip to Le Touessrok’s private island for a seafood feast under swaying trees; and a range of activities such as snorkelling, diving and golf, complete the heavenly experience. Pack away real life for a little while…
Text by Lin Murray. Taken from the Revamp 2010 issue of Elle Decoration.
