By Marilyne Morin, Founder of IMPACT M, Marketing & PR Consultancy.
Unique Indian Ocean gems
From the Seychelles to Mauritius, and the Maldives, we’ve selected three top Indian Ocean resorts, and here is what makes them so unique…
LUX* Grand Baie, Mauritius
An elegant hideaway on the island’s most coveted beach
On the northern shores of Mauritius, LUX* Grand Baie is perfectly located on one of the island’s best beaches facing the sheltered turquoise lagoon. This new generation boutique-style resort introduces travellers to the seductive, slow paced, yet vibrant island way of life.
The 116 suites, villas and residences are designed to look like an interior designer’s holiday home – light and airy, blending natural elements with contemporary design.
Housed in a stunning structure, LUX* Me Spa is channeling cutting-edge technology and ancient wisdom to create a unique spa ecosystem where you can be and feel your best.
This modern resort mirroring the adjacent beach town from which it takes its name, is exciting and playful. Whether it’s the unparalleled culinary scene or the curated calendar of events, it is a celebratory place to be.
A clever mix of beach club and restaurant, Beach Rouge is a bohemian-chic venue evolving from day to night.
Bisou, the 1190m2 rooftop with its infinity pool, restaurant and bar, is set amongst tropical surroundings with incredible views of the lagoon, fringed by cabanas with their own sound system, submerged tables in the pool, and a delicious tapas menu.
Ai KISU, the gastronomic Asian Restaurant & Bar and Club Ai KISU, the first nightclub in Mauritius to combine the luxury of a private members’ club with that of resort residents, play host to a new stylish elite.
Raffles Maldives Meradhoo
An oasis of comfort and style
At the southern end of the Maldives, Raffles Maldives Meradhoo is an idyllic resort bringing Raffles’ legendary service to Gaafu Alifu, one of the world’s largest and most remote natural atolls. It is the ideal place to dive or snorkel and explore the colourful house reefs and fascinating marine life.
Across two islands, 38 beachfront and overwater villas and residences, are some of the largest in the archipelago. On the natural island are the resort’s beach villas, just steps away from white sands and the wide Indian Ocean.
On the overwater resort, reached by a traditional Maldivian dhoni boat, the villas sit over the water, with a glass panel floor on each terrace, giving guests the opportunity to marvel at the colourful sea life.
Set over the water and open to the blue skies above, Raffles Spa is a haven of serenity, where each treatment is based on native ingredients and ancient rituals, combined with the latest spa techniques.
The five restaurants and bars blend local and international cuisine to create memorable experiences. The freshest dishes are served against a stunning natural backdrop at Thari restaurant.
The Firepit offers a unique beachside barbecue experience, while Yuzu presents Peruvian-Nikkei cuisine with a rich melting pot of flavours.
To sip some of the world’s most prestigious cocktails and champagnes in elegant surroundings, guests can head to the Long Bar, or choose Yapa, the stunning overwater bar drawing its inspiration from the national drinks of South America and Japan.
Mango House Seychelles
A secluded hip destination
Located in the South of Mahé, Mango House is a trendy destination providing unique experiences in harmony with nature and an exceptional sense of belonging. The exclusive 41 rooms and suites are all sea facing, with a balcony or terrace overlooking the pristine bay. Their distinctive natural décor and locally-inspired amenities showcase the untouched natural beauty of the Seychelles.
Anpe, meanig ‘at peace’ in Creole, is a tropical spa sanctuary where guests can relax with personalised treatments using locally sourced products, while taking in the glittering ocean views.
The resort is the perfect hotspot to indulge in fun experiences at the five restaurants and bars.
Guests can discover all the richness and diversity of the Seychellois culture at ‘Moutya’, offering authentic Creole dishes created from home recipes passed from generation to generation.
At Kokoye, a South-Indian, Creole lounge that explores the diverse flavours brought to the Seychelles, from the Indian gin to the Vanilla islands rums.
Muse, with its French Riviera brasserie style, is an ode to the original owner of the house, Italian photographer Gian Paolo Barbieri, where contemporary mediterranean meets Creole culture.
Azido, an exclusive Japanese beachside dining concept and Soley, the vibrant pool bar complement the spectacular dining offerings of the resort.