Elite Traveler HRS 2024

Four Seasons Mauritius atAnahita

STAY Accommodation at Four Seasons Mauritius is spread between the mainland — where most of the facilities lie — and the resort’s private island, joined by an elevated pathway over the lagoon. Privacy is in abundance whether you stay in one of the 45 sprawling residences or one of the 1,130-sq-ft, one-bedroom pool villas. The Three-bedroom Royal Island Sanctuary suite spans 4,850 sq ft and is located at the tip of the resort’s private island. The contemporary Mauritian interior boasts raised white reed ceilings and natural hues complemented by coral artworks and palm-laden Pierre Frey wallpaper. The full-width glass doors of the open-plan living and dining room seamlessly glide open to the spacious covered veranda and a family-sized in fi nity pool gazing straight onto the Indian Ocean lagoon. The master bedroom features an additional plunge pool on a separate private terrace, as well as a dreamy en suite with an enormous chandelier fl oating over an equally enormous stone soaking tub. DINE Mauritius is blessed with a rich cuisine in fl uencedby its history and position. A mosaic of African, Chinese, Creole, French and Indian fl avors make sampling the island nation’s cuisine a joy. Bambou, named after the towering Bambou mountain that forms the resort’s backdrop, is a breezy beach and poolside eatery delivering a breakfast of endless possibilities: traditional potato curry with fresh chapatis, miso soup, freshly whipped-up crab Benedict, a crepe station and a juice bar all form just part of the morning menu. Beau Champ serves fi ne French bistro fare with the option of a private dinner or tastings in the restaurant’s extensive wine cellar. For sushi, head to Umi.Zaka, the resort’s Japanese o ff ering, while authentic Indian fl avors can be enjoyed at Chatkar.

Acquapazza, the resort’s modern Italian restaurant, recently hosted a six-month residency by acclaimed Tuscan chef Marco Garfagnini, whose European eateries have garnered two Michelin stars. For a relaxed lunch, hop on the resort’s boat for a short journey across the lagoon to the picturesque uninhabited island of Ile aux Cerfs. Here you’ll fi nd fresh Creole fl avors and cocktails at Four Seasons’ La Plaz Beach Grill set on the hotel’s third beach. Opt for Mauritian rock lobster or the locally sourced fi shof the day cooked to crispy-skin perfection over a charcoal grill. RELAX Massage table views don’t get much better than at the resort’s overwater spa with 12 individual treatment rooms, each with their own sauna and outdoor shower, and each set on large wooden pillars over the lagoon. EXPLORE With Mauritius nearly surrounded by coral reefs, it is a haven for snorkeling. The resort’s on-site water sports center, The Boat House, o ff ers an abundance of complimentary activities for exploring including three daily snorkeling trips, kayaking and paddleboarding. The health of the reef that encircles the Four Seasons’ beaches is monitored by the resort’s resident marine biologist in partnership with conservation charity WiseOceans. Guests can join WiseOceans for an expert-led snorkeling trip to the mangroves or discover the work the organization is carrying out to restore 2.4 acres of the nearby reef. By Emma Al-Mousawi Three-bedroom Royal Island Sanctuary suite from $9,105 per night. Contact reservations.mas@ fourseasons.com, +230 402 3100, fourseasons.com

FOUR SEASONS RESORT MAURITIUS AT ANAHITA MAURITIUS A warm island breeze fl ows through the tall open walled lobby to gently greet new arrivals at Four Seasons Mauritius at Anahita. The Indian Ocean archipelago is around 500 miles east of Madagascar, and has drawn everyone from Charles Darwin to Mark Twain to its alluring, remote shores over the past 150 years. With welcome drink sipped, you’ll be whisked away by golf cart to reach your very own island hideaway. The 64-acre, all-villa resort located on Mauritius's serene east coast is an expanse of lush tropical gardens and swaying coconut palms, featuring two beautiful beaches (with a third on a nearby islet), a thatched roof overwater spa, fi tness center, water sports center and access to two top-notch golf courses.

Acquapazza

Photos Markus Gortz