Restaurant Stars, Shanti Maurice Mauritius (Restaurant Review)

Whilst staying at Shanti Maurice recently, we paid a visit to the Stars restaurant and sat on the deck under the dark velvet sky with twinkling stars.  The culinary influences are South African, but the ingredients are primarily local.

The restaurant uses only the finest and freshest ingredients whether caught from the Ocean or cultivated in their own gardens or sourced from a local farms nearby.

We asked to sit outside where it was easily accessible and upon our arrival the table had already been laid and was ready right next to the pool. The menu was a delight and we had problems deciding….

Early Flavours were the starters and  

From the Water Gods 

Sea Bass Tiradito         sliced raw seabass in a spicy citrus dressing, coriander and avocado guacamole

Stars Tuna Tartare      garlic, ginger, balsamic and miso infused crab and egg fritatta

Marlin Carpaccio        fresh marlin carpaccio with hearts of palm and olive and lemon and basil emulsion

Braised Octopus             salad of braised octopus with lemongrass spiced gazpacho

Wasabi Prawns from Mozambique       wasabi coated prawns with sweet papaya salsa

Seafood Broth with Coconut                  south east asian seafood soup with lemongrass and mushrooms

Salted Chili Squid        squids in a crispy tempura batter sea salt  and garlic  chili sauce

I choose the salted chili Squid whilst Hans chose the Wasabi Prawns from Mozambique

Hans really enjoyed his prawns but I was a bit disappointed with the squid which was a bit bland.

For the second course we had many choices:

From the farm:

Venison “Tataki”    venison loin with rosemary soya glaze

Beet root Carpaccio and Mozzarella Tempura       mustard grains dressing

Bobotie     Cape Malay curried beef casserole with raisins and apple chutney

Mojo Chicken from Souilliac   pan roasted chicken breast  in a citrus marination  with oregano

served with fried banana and sour cream

Five Spiced Pork Belly   crispy tongue and  chorizo braised cabbage

Tandoori Baby Chicken roasted with  tandoori  marination and served  with crispy tapioca

Braised Black Pepper Beef Cheek  sticky yam mash

Simmered Karoo Lamb Shank  in soya and sichuan pepper broth, with barley risotto, christophine

and green peas

From the Water Gods

Seafood Skewer      lime, garlic & chili flavored seafood skewer mixed beans and garden herbs

Grilled Tuna Mi-cuit    confit onion ,bacon and saffron veloute

Oven roasted Seabass   anchovy butter crumbs, olives and roasted mediterranean roots

Ginger Poached Ombrine   slow poached  in a ginger broth, sesame oil , spring onions and steamed rice

Pan Seared ‘Catch of the Day’  seafood laksa , bok choy and mushrooms

Desserts

Baked Vanilla Yoghurt   vanilla infused baked yoghurt with strawberry and balsamic compote 

Sweet Papaya and Passion Fruit Bake    sabayon of sugarcane  and rum

Madagascar Chocolate Snicker Bar    brownie, ganache, caramel ,toffee mousse and roasted

macadamia  nuts

Lemon Tart   tart with rodrigues lemon curd accompanied with lemon thyme sorbet

Coconut Shell      With coconut mousse, sorbet, crunchy flakes and coconut rum

Selection of Homemade Ice Creams & Sorbets

Coffee

Mauritian Coffee     mauritian vanilla rum, hot coffee,  sugar, double cream

Calypso Coffee      kahlua, hot coffee, sugar, double cream

Irish Coffee    irish whiskey, hot coffee, sugar, double cream

Café Coretto     grappa, hot coffee, sugar, double cream

Review

Staff– Friendly, knowledgable and efficient

Food– Delicious, skillfully prepared, innovative and just the right quantity

Atmosphere– The restaurant is trendy and relaxed. We arrived early when just a few tables were occupied but soon we were joined by many others and there was a feeling of mutual appreciation for the culinary delights.

Top 10 Mauritius Luxury Villas of 2012

Reflecting on 2012 we have seen some interesting developments. Whilst there are still some firm favourites making the top 10 we have seen a large increase in family groups looking for a traditional yet trendy villa holiday. This year has been hugely successful for several of the villas on this trend in Mauritius. These spacious architect-designed pool villas with often 5+ bedrooms, offer a real home from home with their own local staff to take away those domestic chores.

2012 has also seen the opening of more luxury oceanfront apartments with very positive client feedback. Wedding parties blocking whole complexes were very popular this year, especially for those with guests from the southern and northern hemispheres meeting half way.

Mauritius continues to attract the villa client who can enjoy a tropical home from home, with homemade cooking, hot sandy beaches and the usual warm welcome of the Mauritius people.

Luxury Beach Apartments

 

Cape Point Apartments – Cap Malheureux (North Coast Mauritius)

 

Cape Point is a fantastic seafront property in North Mauritius just 5 minutes from Grand Bay. This year has seen a flurry of wedding groups with guests from all around the globe. Weddings can be held at Cape Point or at other romantic locations nearby. Cape Point has four spacious 3 bedroom apartments and a 4 bedroom penthouse offering a high level of comfort and stunning views over the lagoon and the northern islands. The swimming pool has a large wooden decking area and a pool bar.

 

Leora Beach Apartments – Tamarin, Black River (West Coast Mauritius) 

Leora opened late 2011 and was the first luxury apartments for rental on the west coast. An instant hit with our guests, it will soon be joined in April 2013 by another similar property L’Espanade. Leora Beachfront Apartments are in a stunning location with amazing sea views. There are 12 apartments and 2 penthouses of 3 bedrooms each set in four stylish blocks. Nearby are top-rated golf courses, sports clubs and commercial centres with shops and restaurants. The opening of such apartments are ideal for families, couples and groups of friends.

Traditional & Trendy Luxury Villas

 

Villa Athénée – Poste Lafayette (East Coast Mauritius)

As always, Villa Athénée is a firm favourite every year, this 5 bedroom beachfront thatched villa is traditonal yet stylish. A real home from home, the guests appreciate the ambiance of the villa, deck, pool and lovely soft sand of the beach as well as the delicious cooking provided by Marie-Josee. Excellent choice for a group of friends or large family.

Villa Hermes

 

Villas Hermes – Belle Mare (East Coast Mauritius)

One of our favourites and with fantastic staff, this villa brings family and golfing groups back year after year. Villas Hermes 2 with its 5 bedrooms can be rented along with Villa Hermes 1 with 4 bedrooms. A much sought-after villa which shares the finest beach of Belle Mare with the One&Only St Géran. All bedrooms are en-suite and air-conditioned. The outside covered terrace leads to a spacious lawn overlooking the powder beach and quiet bay. In our opinion you can’t beat both its location and its dedicated staff . A truly authentic Mauritius holiday experience.

La Boiserie – Trou Aux Biches/Mont Choisy (North Coast Mauritius)

On a gorgeous sandy beach, this well positioned  4-bedroom villa with a guest cottage sleeps up to 8 adults and 2 children. Days are spent sunbathing in the beautifully maintained front garden, laid out lawn and sand or dining under the covered wooden gazebo overlooking the stunning bay. Its location is great for sea sports enthusiasts with the  Blue Water Diving Centre and the Big Game Fishing Centre just 75 metres away. This villa has been very popular for large family groups with small children.

Villa K

 

Villa K – Pointe Aux Canonniers   (North Coast Mauritius)

This brand new exclusive villa lies on the beach overlooking the islands off the North coast. It is designed in tropical contemporary style and consists of 4 air-conditioned and ventilated en suite bedrooms sleeping up to 8 guests.

Villa Thalie

 

Villa Thalie – Domaine de Belle Riviere (South Coast Mauritius)

Located in the south west of Mauritius at Bel Ombre is Domaine de Belle Riviere, one of the most exclusive estates in Mauritius comprising some exclusive luxury private villas and the Sofitel So Mauritius five star luxurious hotel and spa. Villa Thalie has 7 bedrooms (4 suites and 3 doubles) and can sleep up to 18. Excellently managed and with complimentary access to the neighbouring Sofitel So Mauritius beach, kids club, restaurants and spa this has been a big hit with our discerning family groups. Ideal location for a very private and sophisticated wedding.

Villa d'Eden

 

Villa d’Eden – Poste Lafayette (East Coast Mauritius)

A traditional thatched and stone villa with pool and a very attentive housekeeper and cook. With 4 bedrooms Villa d’Eden offers a comfortable relaxing stay whether as a couple or with the family.

Tropical Cove

 

Tropical Cove (East Coast Mauritius)

A popular favourite this beautiful 4-bedroom villa is situated in a tropical garden overlooking the tranquil beach of Roches Noires, in a cove well protected from the wind. It is the ideal location for sports lovers who want to kite surf, use championship golf courses and jog along the coast. Ideal for families sleeping 6 adults and 2 children.

Lunea Villas

 

Lunea Villas – Anahita (East Coast Mauritius)

Ideal for golfing groups and family get togethers, Lunea Villas are nestled in the heart of a 213 acre estate of Anahita with views across to the famous Ile aux Cerfs. The estate also includes the Four Seasons Resort Mauritius and the 18 hole Championship golf course designed by Ernie Els.

Hope you’ve had a wonderful year in 2012, we know we have with the Olympics and Paralympics in the United Kingdom to be excited about amongst all the rest that is happening in Mauritius.

We look forward to welcoming you to some of these beautiful locations in 2013 which is already just round the corner!

Butler Service at Heritage Villas

Always arriving exhausted at the villa and with a family stay to organise I am always to pleased to meet the smiling butler who can make sure I, the hostess, has a stressfree and relaxing stay. I have enjoyed the service of the Heritage butlers during both of my stays and admire their enthusiasm and hard work. Their presence is a major part of the villa holiday and they represent to me the genuine  Mauritius hospitality – always friendly but not over familiar, willing to adapt to any situation and the natural desire to be of help and to please their guests.

Villa Welcome by Rischi in Sept 2011

WHEN YOU ARRIVE, THE BUTLER WILL ….
_ Ensure accommodation is ready
_ Assist you during check in and accompany you in your villa
_ Offer to unpack luggage
_ Offer beverage service
_ Take note of any requirements you may have on arrival

DURING YOUR STAY,THE BUTLER WILL …
_ Take bookings for breakfast, lunch and dinner
_ Handle your laundry, dry cleaning or pressing requests
_ Liaise with housekeeping for the cleaning and servicing of the villa
_ Offer to draw a scented bubble bath
_ Offer general assistance related to bookings and stay’s organization
_ Tidy your wardrobe
_ Ensure that your villa is maintained in perfect condition
_ Check and restock villa bar if applicable
_ Offer food and beverage service
_ Drive you to hotels or beach
_ From time to time adjust cleaning in your villa
_ Fill your dish washer or washing machine if necessary
_ Follow up on any specific requirements with the concierge team

UPON DEPARTURE, THE BUTLER WILL ….
_ Offer to pack your luggage
_ Present your account in advance of check out
_ Arrange transport requirements
_ Coordinate luggage pick up
_ Tidy your wardrobe
_ Escort you to the Welcome Centre lobby
_ Check your villa for any item you may have forgotten

Butler Service
Butler Service Rs 2520 per villa per day
A butler will be available for a maximum of 8 persons in the villa

A Journey Somewhere in Time… (Colonial Dream Beach House)

Colonial Dream is not just a wonderful beach house; it is a journey somewhere in time.

This villa is the very last colonial home on the Northern coast of Mauritius. It is also the very first beach home that was built in Pointe aux Canonniers by a prominent figure of the island back then as his “campement” seaside home. The campement at that time was used only one to two months a year, during what was called “la saison”, i.e. when wealthy families gathered to spend the winter months on the coast.

The villa is built in stone with numerous thatched roofs that keep the house cool at all times. The rooms display the white and fresh tones of authentic colonial homes. The furniture is mainly “Compagnie des Indes”, carved in purple palissandre 200 years ago in India, or authentic Mauritian creole furniture made with the sought after local mahogany called “macaque”, now almost extinct in the wild. In the entrance, an XVIIth century baroque altar greets the guests. A bunch of flowers stands on an early XIXth century centre table leading to the endless view towards the reef. A 2000sqft outdoor living area with broad verandahs and a huge deck overlooks the Indian Ocean. The main façade is North oriented, therefore the sun pours in all day long towards the pool whose colours match those of the sea.

The Villa size is 5000sqft (3000 inside + 2000 verandahs and deck) and comprises four bedrooms, four bathrooms (3 en-suite, one adjacent, all with double basins). All the bedrooms display priceless antique furniture including: XIXth century colonial mahogany basin stands, old carved tables and stately four poster beds. The interior is bright and airy, with white linen curtains blowing in the sea breeze, immaculate handmade bed covers and superb Egyptian cotton bed sheets. An authentic modern colonial atmosphere.

Outside, the 10 meters long thatched dining room overlooks the pool and sea and has its own small kitchen area with a sink and a fridge. It faces a huge thatched day bed in white with soft pillows to relax and enjoy the view.

Or maybe you will choose a sun lounger on the deck.

Another favourite spot is in the shade under the veranda in one of the old planters’ armchairs. Colonial bliss.

The white sand beach is exceptionally quiet: you are usually all alone all day long.

The extensive living and dining room houses the authentic Compagnie des Indes furniture sideboard, centre table and pair of Indo-Portuguese influenced liquor chests on pedestal, French dessert sideboard, Mahogany creole table with twisted legs, old Chinese portraits, beautiful caned colonial settee and modern white couch.

Heirlooms included: Compagnie des Indes table, caned XIXth century armchair, antique inlaid European desk, XIXth cent ivory and ebony  inlaid dressing table, British colonial chair coming from the Colonial Assembly, antique chinese chest, early 18th cent local Armoire Normande (one of 3 in Mauritius, one being in the Mahebourg museum) as well as  old style “larder” in beautiful oak with hand painted glass and mirrors.

http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=1786


Restaurant Gin’ja, Heritage Le Telfair Mauritius (Restaurant review)

Whilst staying recently at Heritage Villas, we paid a visit to Heritage Le Telfair Mauritius where we had dinner at the famous restaurant Gin’ja. The restaurant which serves innovative Pan-Asian fusion cuisine gave us an elegant fine dining experience with a range of exotic flavours and creative combinations.

We were welcomed enthusiastically and shown our table near the teppanyaki corner. We were left constantly pleasantly surprised as we were not choosing from the menu but given a selection of their best dishes which I have listed below in the menu.

Every dish brought us excitement which only increased as we tasted our way through the surprise menu. There were touches of genius all evening such as the delicious steamed buns before and during our meal with exotic dips, as well as the innovative vanilla tempura icecream which melted in our mouths.

We loved how you could also watch the chef prepare the dishes through a glass window near our table; it let us join in with the creation of the food as well as the tasting. You effectively sit outside looking out onto the water under a roof with dimmed lights which really adds to the atmosphere of the restaurant.

We cannot wait to return and taste more of their impressive inspired cusine!

Review

Staff– Friendly, knowledgable and efficient

Food– Delicious, skillfully prepared, innovative and just the right quantity

Atmosphere– The restaurant is trendy and relaxed. We arrived early when just a few tables were occupied but soon we were joined by many others and there was a feeling of mutual appreciation for the culinary delights.

– Menu –

Starter

Gin’ja delicate platter
Assorted sushi maki, Peking duck with tangy hoisin sauce, jumbo tiger prawn tempura

Main course

Duo platter delicious teryaki beef tenderloin, miso glazed ombrine fish with sauteed baby bok choy and green tea sweet potato

Dessert

Vanilla tempura ice cream with warm cardamon chocolate sauce


http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=1689

Rare Indian Ocean Pearl – Exclusive Villas Lencia, Mauritius

Villa Lencia, Mauritius

http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=829

Villas Lencia’s concept is the ultra designer home from home. It’s made up of 4 beautiful villas – Villa #1 being beachfront with a pool and 4 suites and then there are 3 guest villas with 3 suites each as well as their own pool.
The property is the home of an international businessman and art collector where this villa is an expression of his love of Mauritian culture and his taste for art and design.

In a nutshell they are 4 stunning villas with hotel service, concierge, gym and spa right on a private beach.

Ultra Design
Villa #1 is a stunning home in a 1600m2 garden and with a living space of 490m2. Just a few of our favourite features of the property are the 300m2 terrace with two huge Fabio November masks at each end of the heated 75m2 pool as well as the linear frames that house the day beds. Then there is the stunning living area of 120m2 with an open plan kitchen. Additionally the suites with a patio of 60-70m2 are beautiful, as well as the lobby with its library area, the master bedroom with its huge dressing room and bathroom with designer tub. There is also a fully equipped gym and private massage salon.

The interior design includes Henri Pedersen Imola chairs, carpets from Toulemonde Bochat, JLB Litezone and Blacheree Illumination for the lights and Elitis for the walls. The villa also houses a private collection of photographic works by Jean-Daniel Lorieux and Slim Aarons (american photographer of the stars in 70s) and works by artist Pierre Letellier and of other artists; some up and coming such as Christiaan Conradie, Daniel Orme, Paul Senyol, Rezo, Kilmani-Jo, Bagus Rai, Costache, and Allan Tuttle.

Villas 2, 3 and 4 are guest villas of 3 bedrooms en suite in a 600m2 garden and living area of 285m2 with a 85m2 living room and open plan kitchen. The ground floor master suite is 45m2 with a pool patio. The villa terrace is 100m2 with a heated swimming pool of 50m2 and a gazebo of 6m2.
Rental is with breakfast, fully staffed with butler, cook and security 24/7.

I am blown away by the freshness and originality of these new villas. It raises the bar in Mauritius luxury villa rentals. The owner has put his heart into every detail of design and delights us with his personal collections.

http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=829

Top 10 Seychelles Villas of 2011

Seychelles is such a beautiful destination; an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean. Luxury villas are rare and we have searched for many years for the perfect properties. Unlike Mauritius the properties in Seychelles tend to be built on the hillsides with magnificent views of the ocean and are just a short ride down to world class beaches. On Praslin we highlight two properties Villa Castello which is beachfront and Rocky Bay Villa which is oceanfront. The standard of some of the Mahe properties makes them a delightful alternative to the hotel stay. All villas are staffed and some villas come with a butler and full board options. Eden Island is our latest addition which offers the boating enthusiast a luxury apartment or maison with the quay only a few steps away. We hope you enjoy our selection.

Li-Al-Do Maison (Takamaka, Mahe)

http://www.elegantdestinations.co.uk/seychelles/accom_mahe_lialdo.htm
http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=1488

Li-al-do Maison is a beautiful 4-bedroom villa surrounded by a luxuriant tropical garden with its stunning swimming pool and gazebo overlooking the unspoilt bay of Takamaka, on the south-west coast of Mahé, the largest of the Seychelles islands. The architecture of the villa is very much in keeping with the unspoilt surroundings with its decorations and furniture handcrafted by local craftsmen.
It is a great villa for a family reunion or a group of friends with wonderful staff to help you enjoy your stay. The beach is within 10 minutes and many sea excursions are on offer.

Residence on the Rocks (Anse Intendance, Mahe)

http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=1488

Perched in a luxuriant forest overlooking the palm-fringed coral beach and turquoise lagoon of Intendance Bay, South of Mahé, lies Residence On the Rocks. This retreat whose architectural design, as well as interior décor, evokes a sumptuous plantation house from Seychelles’ French and British colonial eras.
The villa consists of a two-bedroom Main House on more or less level ground with granite/rock formations on either side for privacy, a one-bedroom Guest House and a fourth suite has just been added. The large infinity pool (10 x 7 m) elevated just below the rock formations offers a vertiginous ocean view. Opposite the Guest House, a gazebo used for alfresco dining, massages and spa treatments sits on a granite rock. A large Jacuzzi nestles in a rock cave next to it.

Villa Petit Amour (Beau Vallon, Mahe)

http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=1779

Situated at the northern end of Mahé in the Seychelles, this stunning four bedroom villa is impeccably appointed with a unique blend of contemporary European and traditional Creole styles. Set within a private tropical garden with palm, frangipani and fruit trees the villa also offers an infinity swimming pool and sunbathing areas, with stunning views of Beau Vallon Bay and the Indian Ocean. A staff apartment is also available. It is rented fully staffed with breakfast and the possibility of full board option.

Eden Island (near Mahe)

http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=408

Eden Island is the perfect location from which you can explore the true beauty and treasures that these magnificent islands have to offer. Situated just off the mainland of Mahe; The Eden Island Marina development is the Seychelles’ Ultimate 5 star self catering resort. Eden Island is a residential marina development featuring a range of beautifully designed luxury Apartments, spacious Maisons and private Villas offering 5-star self catering accommodation. A bridge connects Eden Island to the main island, where the international airport is a mere 10-minutes drive away.

Eden Apartments

The Eden Island Apartments are luxuriously designed to fit with the ideal of island living. Ranging from 88m2 to 215 m2, they are typical one to three bedroom apartments, featuring wide open spaces, big open doors and large windows with extended covered verandas, inviting the beautiful outside in.

Spaced all around the island in apartment blocks not higher than two stories, each apartment comes standard with Miele appliances – washing machine, dryer, oven and hob, a dish washer and of course a refrigerator.

Eden Maisons

Maisons are private and Luxurious duplex homes featuring plenty of space and consist of two to four bedrooms. They range in size from 210m2 to 305 m2.
As with the Apartments, the Maisons come standard with en-suite bathrooms.

Placed privately on plots ranging between 260m2 and 1000m2, no more than 3 Maisons are connected to each other, facing different directions to optimise privacy and bringing the extensive outdoors inside through large verandas and open windows.

Villa Castello (Anse Kerlan, Praslin)

http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=537

This distinguished Tuscan-style property is located on the north-western section of the island of Praslin with the most impressive sunsets on the island. The property is nestled on one of the most beautiful white powder-sand beaches of the Seychelles with excellent opportunities for swimming and bathing. It presents a fascinating view onto the islands of Cousin and Cousine as well as Mahé and Silhouette. From the Beach Pavillon you can look over both offshore beaches and a breathtaking outlook onto the sea.
It is Four double bedrooms with 3 bathrooms. It has a wonderful private swimming pool and a fantastic beach location. It is also within proximity of Castello Beach Hotel for dining and activities.

Bay View Villa (Anse Boileau, Mahe)

http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=110

This wonderful 6-bedroom villa of 650m² (sleeping up to 13 guests) with swimming pool facing the sea and located on Mahe (the capital island); is the perfect spot for holidays with the family and a group of friends. A wonderful option for groups and incentives…
Bay View Villa is on the most beautiful coast of South West Mahe between the Barbarons tip and the Anse Boileau Bay, ocean front and in an oasis of calm and greenery. It is 20 minutes from the capital city Victoria and 25 minutes from the international airport by car. There are a few shops and restaurants some 10 minutes from the villa on foot, and the only equestrian centre in Mahe is also nearby.
It is the ideal central point to visit the island. The capital city Victoria will surprise you with its full colour market, its shops, its religious buildings and its few colonial creole houses. Up north, the national Morne Seychellois park will captivate you with its beautiful flora and its majestic panoramas. On the east coast, the Jardin du Roi will immerse you in an old spice plantation with its master house and its amazing estate. Finally, the enchantress west coast will fascinate you with its succession of wild and idyllic beaches

Villa de Cerf (Cerf Island, near Mahe)

http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=1285

Nestling against this unique backdrop and commanding sublime views of the coastline of east Mahé, Villa de Cerf provides luxury and privacy in an exquisite island retreat that boasts four spacious, elegantly-furnished rooms on two floors of an imposing, colonial-style villa not far from the water’s edge.
Among further villa facilities are a spacious lounge/dining room and swimming-pool with wide terrace and sun deck while the services of a live-in hostess and cook are available to ensure maximum guest comfort and the best possible introduction to mouth-watering Seychellois Creole cuisine.

Cerf Island, part of the beautiful Ste. Anne Marine Park, is close to the scenic east cost of Mahé, the principal island of the Seychelles archipelago, and offers one of the most tranquil and unique landscapes of all the Inner Islands. Having long been the traditional settlement of choice for the privileged few, Cerf Island gives its residents a refined ambience as well as all the benefits of fine island living: silver-sand beaches, hidden coves and a pristine interior just waiting to be discovered.

Rocky Bay Villa (Anse La Blague, Praslin)

http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=1307

Rocky Bay is a luxurious villa perched ten meters above water and overlooking the picturesque sandy bay of Anse La Blague in Praslin. Its peaceful and unique location on a private rocky headland has breathtaking views and its close vicinity to the sea makes it a highly sought after holiday environment.
The villa offers four double bedrooms with double beds and with their own private balcony and sea views.
The villa comes with housekeeping and a chef. A rental car is recommended. This is a great villa for a family holiday and children under 12 stay free. The villa rental comes with housekeeping and chef.

Royal Bay Villa (Anse Royale, Mahe)

http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=1684

The Royal Bay Villa is situated towards the southern part of Mahé Island. It overlooks the beautiful bay of Anse Royale and its magnificent beach (2 minutes walk).
With its Mediterranean ‘hacienda’ look Royal Bay Villa offers four well appointed bedrooms upstairs,
two of which with double beds are en suite whilst the other two (1 double & 1 twin) share a large bathroom. All rooms are air-conditioned and have their own external balcony and most bedrooms also offer views of the ocean. Great villa for a family holiday and children under 12 stay free. Villa rental comes with housekeeping and chef.

Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa Resort

The villas are located on Silhouette Island (a marine national park, that is regarded as one of the most important biodiversity sanctuaries of the Indian Ocean), 30 kilometers from Mahe, the main island where the international airport is situated. A 40 minute boat ride or a short helicopter flight from the main island of Mahe, Silhouette island is known for its dramatic mountain peaks, rich cultural heritage and unique biodiversity.

Only steps from the idyllic palm fringed beach, all of the stunning Villas at The Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa Resort offer spectacular views, luxury amenities, wireless internet access and spacious living areas. Various villa types (some with plunge pools) offer great accommodation for couples and families of 2 adults and 2 children.
There are also plenty of activities with a fitness centre, PADI dive centre, spa and a total of 7 restaurants.

We hope you have enjoyed our Top 10 and look forward to your feedback!

Top 10 Mauritius Villas of 2011

Reflecting on this year we have seen new trends and wanted to share with you our portfolio’s top 10 Mauritius villas and apartments for rental in 2011.

A hugely successful trend in Mauritius for accommodation is the wide range of brand new luxury beach apartments and penthouses on offer. These beachfront properties are making a refreshing change to the hotel and also enhancing to the Mauritius experience by enabling guests to live like a local and get outside the tourist zones. All the apartments are newly built, privately owned and managed by professional teams for housekeeping, security and concierge. This year has seen the opening of such apartments each corner of Mauritius and the uptake has been beyond our expectation and the feedback is positive. The guests appreciate the privacy, style and service whether on holiday with the family, business trip or an extended stay.

This year has also seen the opening of many top luxury private villas with chefs, butlers and maids and the uptake has been excellent. Some beachfront villas are newly built by private owners, some are boutique villas run like small luxury hotels fully staffed and others are substantial investment properties on private estates. All offer a home from home top class stay whether you are a group of friends, private wedding party, large family holiday or a corporate retreat.

Luxury Beach Apartments

Cape Point Apartments – Cap Malheureux (north coast Mauritius)
http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=1662
http://www.elegantdestinations.com/mauritius/villa/apartment/cape-point.html

Cape Point has four spacious 3 bedroom apartments and the second floor 4 bedroom offering a high level of comfort and stunning views over the lagoon with the small outer island of Coin de Mire. The swimming pool has a large wooden decking area and a bar pool. Cape Point is located in the exclusive and quiet area of Cap Malheureux and is only five minutes away from the bustling resort of Grand Bay. This property has been a great success for large family reunions and weddings.

Leora Beach Apartments – Tamarin-Black River (west coast Mauritius)
http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=1766
http://www.elegantdestinations.com/mauritius/villa/apartment/leora-beach.html

Brand new for 2011 these first luxury apartments for rental on the west coast were a hit from the moment they were launched in July. Leora Beachfront Apartments are in a stunning location with amazing sea views and private access to the sea within a stylish setting. There are 12 apartments and 2 penthouses of 3 bedrooms each set in four stylish blocks. Nearby are top-rated golf courses, sports clubs and commercial centres with shops and restaurants.

The opening of such apartments in other seaside locations is a welcome addition to what the island offers as they offer privacy, style and service required by many clients coming to Mauritius on business or for an extended stay.  It is also ideal for families, groups of friends and small corporate groups looking for an alternative to the luxury resorts.

Luxury Villas

Villa Athenee – Poste Lafayette (east coast Mautitius)
http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=1663
http://www.elegantdestinations.com/mauritius/villa/luxury-villa/villa-athenee.html

A firm favourite year on year, this 5 bedroom beachfront pool villa is stylish and spacious; a real home from home. Guests appreciate the ambience of the villa, deck, pool and lovely soft sand of the beach as well as the delicious cooking provided by Marie-Josee. Excellent choice for a group of friends or large family.

Villas Hermes – Belle Mare (east coast Mauritius)
http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=1496
http://www.elegantdestinations.com/mauritius/villa/luxury-villa/villa-hermes.html

Villas Hermes 2 with its 5 bedrooms can be rented along with Villa Hermes 1 with 4 bedrooms. A popular villa on the finest beach of Belle Mare and right near One&Only St Geran. All bedrooms are ensuite and air-conditioned. The outside covered terrace leads to a spacious lawn overlooking the powder beach and quiet bay. Great for families with small children as well as groups of friends. Well located near several top golf courses and 5 star hotels these villas are a long time favourite of our clients. The staff show a love and dedication in their housekeeping and cooking and offer a truly authentic Mauritius holiday experience.

La Boiserie- Mont Choisy (north coast Mauritius)
http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=1085
http://www.elegantdestinations.com/mauritius/villa/beach-bungalow/villa-boiserie.html

This well positioned charming 4-bedroom villa with guest cottage
sleeps up to 8 adults and 2 children and boasts a beautifully maintained front garden, laid out to lawn and sand, leading to a covered wooden gazebo for dining and  overlooking the beach and beautiful blue bay of Mont Choisy. Its location its great for sea sports enthusiasts with the  Blue Water Diving Centre and the Big Game Fishing Centre (Le Corsaire )just 75 metres away. This villa has been very popular for large family groups with small children.

Le Jardin des Salines- Black River (west coast)
http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=1525
http://www.elegantdestinations.com/mauritius/villa/beach-bungalow/jardin-des-salines.html

Built along the beach of a large family estate off the beaten track on this fabulous peninsula close to Black River and Le Morne, these stylish villas ticked all the boxes. With 3 bedrooms, spacious beachfront private pool, on a lovely beach and with great homemade Mauritius cooking.

Villa Tiara-Poste Lafayette (east coast Mauritius)
http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=1700
http://www.elegantdestinations.com/mauritius/villa/exclusive-villa/villa-tiara.html

Stunning beachfront  Villa Tiara has welcomed many of our guests this year. A luxury stay in this boutique villa is with service chef, butler, housekeeping 24/7, own private heated pool, hamman/sauna and gym. The villa can accommodate 12 adults and additional children. It can be rented on bed and breakfast, half board and all inclusive. Along with sister Villa Almira the Sankhara villas can accommodate up to 18 adults plus 6 additional beds.

Villa Almira-Poste Lafayette (east coast Mauritius)
http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=1744
http://www.elegantdestinations.com/mauritius/villa/exclusive-villa/villa-almira.html

A popular 3 bedroom all ensuite villa with own private pool. A pampered stay for all the guests with butler, chef and housekeeping.

Family groups, golf groups, large private weddings and corporate retreats have enjoyed both Villa Tiara and Villa Almira this year.

Anahita Suites- Anahita (east coast Mauritius)
http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=1517
http://www.elegantdestinations.com/mauritius/hotel/luxury/anahita.html

Beautifully spacious 1,2 and 3 luxury bedroom suites/apartments with breathtaking views of the turquoise lagoon or views of the lush golf course with a stunning mountain backdrop. Superb breakfasts, many complimentary activities and top class restaurants. Well equipped gym, variety of sports activities and a relaxing spa. OurSpace children’s club and Teen’s club.  The Anahita Golf Course benefits in as many ways as possible from its beautiful, natural setting. You have spectacular rocky outcrops, large native trees and jaw-dropping views of the mountains and Indian Ocean.
“The 18th hole is one of the most impressive in the world” – Ernie Els

With the offers available at Anahita and the huge range of top level facilities we are always happy to recommend the resort to our clients.

Heritage Villas – Bel Ombre (south west coast Mauritius)
http://www.villasdemaitre.com/hotelinfo.asp?SupplierID=1689
http://www.elegantdestinations.com/mauritius/villa/hotel-villa/heritage-villas.html

Open this year for rental these spacious 2,3 and 4 bedroom villas overlooking the ocean and the 18 hole golf course of Bel Ombre. Guests staying here have relaxed and been spoilt. Whether golfers or not there has been plenty to do with free access to the C Beach Club, restaurants, bars, spa and sports facilities of  hotels, Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Spa and Heritage Awali Golf & Spa.

We hope you have enjoyed our Top 10 and look forward to your feedback!