WHAT: A 172-room resort on Mauritius, a tiny tropical island off the coast of East Africa with a melting pot of French, Indian and Asian cultures. The 3½-year-old beachfront St. Regis Mauritius offers a well-equipped fitness center, tennis courts, two heated pools and unobstructed sunsets over the Indian Ocean. There’s a water-sports club with windsurfing, snorkeling, scuba diving and kitesurf lessons — along with plenty of activities for the kids.
WHY: St. Regis’ luxury amenities are ideal for both honeymooners and the mostly European families filling the resort. West-facing beachfront suites are located steps from the shoreline and include attentive butler service. There’s also a library, cinema room and the heavenly Iridium spa. The resort is a favorite of windsurfers and kitesurfers thanks to its location directly in front of One Eye — a legendary wave as enchanting as it is dangerous — and the Manawa reef breaks.
WORKING WELL: You won’t go hungry while on the property — The St. Regis operates five restaurants serving everything from sushi to Indian food to bar snacks. Or, bypass the crowds entirely with a private dinner at the Chef’s Table in the resort’s bustling main kitchen, where executive chef Sebastien Le Gall serves eight-course meals including a lobster bisque with truffle tea bag, fresh tuna and caviar. St. Regis sommelier Vikram Sundhoo also pairs delicious varietals with a three-course dinner in the resort’s wine cellar, where up to five guests can dine and drink in privacy.
NEEDS WORK: The resort is hard to fault, but its signature butler service — while certainly indulgent — can a times feel overwhelming (and occasionally even intrusive). Be sure to prominently place that “do not disturb” sign to avoid unwanted interruptions.
MUST TRY: Aside from the water sports, The St. Regis sits at the base of historic — and panoramic — Le Morne mountain. Organize a hike with a local guide through the hotel for a morning trek. Bring your camera — the summit provides National Geographic-worthy views of the island’s south coast and its surrounding reef. But be warned: it’s not a casual Sunday stroll. Wear appropriate footwear and clothing.
BOTTOM LINE: Any resort that demands 24-hours of travel times begs the question: “Is it worth it?” The St. Regis comes in with a resounding “yes!”
DETAILS: 172 rooms, suites and private villas, starting around $465.