What it is

A 172-room colonially-inspired resort fronting an Indian Ocean lagoon with every amenity you could want, from five restaurants to a jaw-dropping 12-room spa.

What it isn't

Boring. Activities on the property include a fleet of loaner bikes, a private cinema, tennis courts, a game room, kayaking, table tennis, scuba diving, and two beachfront pools flanked by sunbeds (with doting butlers, natch).

What we think

No wonder honeymooners flock to this retreat on the UNESCO heritage Le Morne Peninsula from all corners of the globe: this place is everything anyone could want from a once-in-a-lifetime getaway. In a resort designed by South African architect Stauch Vorster centered around a century old manor house, rooms are a mix of colonial-meets-indigenous-Mauritius style, with carved four post beds wrapped in downy 300-thread-count linens; an oval soaking tub and Remède bath amenities; private terraces or balconies; and tech touches, like DVD players and 42-inch LED TVs—not that you’ll spend much time using them. You can opt to stay in pagoda-like beachfront villas with private pools for the full private island experience; our favorite rooms in the main resort, though, may just be the beachfront junior suites, thanks to their lofted exposed beam ceilings and charming decor touches (hanging lanterns; mosaic tiled tables).

You're here because

You’re bringing the kids, and JW Marriott always delivers for littles. Here, they’ll find kiddo-sized robes and slippers; treats at check-in; a family activities list; and Kite Flyers Club with thrills like glass bottomed boat rides and cooking classes for tots four and up.

The Moment

You’ve experienced your share of spas and hammams, but nothing compares to this dip at the Iridium Spa: steeping in a glowing turquoise pool under a rounded ceiling lit with teensy glittering lights like stars. Bliss.

Restaurants & Bars

Floating Market - offering a blend of Thai, Malay, Vietnam, Indonesian and Singaporean flavors in the Iridium Spa Pavilion

The Boathouse Grill - seafood restaurant offering a locally inspired menu, along with a juice bar and creative cocktails

Atsuko - fine dining experience offering fresh Japanese cuisine

Le Manoir Dining Room - offers French-Mauritian cuisine, serving a buffet breakfast everyday and theme dinners weekly

Simply India - a one-of-a-kind dining experience with chefs adding elegant touches to traditional dishes from all regions of India

Location

Straddling Le Morne Beach on its namesake peninsula, a 28 minute drive from Chamarel Seven Colored Earth Geopark—where tufted sand dunes sprawl in, yes, seven colors.