On the holiday isle of Mauritius there’s no shortage of upmarket resorts offering superlative service, stylish accommodation and wonderful food. Likewise, there’s no shortage of family resorts where children are indulged rather than endured, and activities stretch from mini-golf to complimentary waterskiing. And yet, surprisingly few resorts manage to cater to both ends of the spectrum.
Courtesy of Belle Mare Plage
Constance Belle Mare Plage is one of just a handful that gets it right. Situated on the east coast of the island, an hour’s drive from the international airport, Belle Mare Plage has that Goldilocks ability to offer quiet, intimate spaces for honeymooners and couples, yet enough room for the plentiful family travellers to spread out. Despite its 214 stylish rooms, suites and villas, mostly laid out in attractive double-story blocks fronted by palm-lined gardens, it feels smaller than it is, offering the charm of an intimate property with all the facilities of a large resort.
A 2-km sandy beach offers plenty of safe swimming areas, as do the four swimming pools spread out across the resort. Weather not playing ball? A free mini-golf course is available all day and bicycles are on hand for energetic youngsters. A well-equipped Kids’ Club will keep young ones entertained for much of the day, freeing up parents – or those unencumbered by children – to make full use of the resort’s top-notch facilities. There are two superb golf courses connected directly to the resort, as well as a serene U Spa offering an array of body and facial treatments.
Courtesy of Belle Mare Plage
The Constance group is justifiably famous for its food and wine offering, and Belle Mare Plage is no exception. You’ll find seven restaurants across the resort – although some may be closed during the quiet winter period – from family-friendly buffets at La Citronnelle to a more upmarket dining experience at La Spiaggia and Blue Penny Café. The sea-facing Indigo Beach is another perennial favourite.
If there’s a downside to Mauritius it’s that it’s no longer a cheap destination, and your bar bill on checkout could quickly erase any memory of the holiday. To help avoid any nasty surprises, Belle Mare Plage’s ‘Cristal’ all-inclusive package (approximately €60 per person per day) is a dream: it includes all meals, unlimited golf on two of the east coast’s best courses, and premium drinks including French Champagne, fine wines and top-notch single malt whiskies.
