Laidback yet luxurious, Constance Prince Maurice blends seamlessly into the Mauritian landscape, with rooms either leading directly onto the beach, surrounded by lush gardens, or sitting on stilts sitting around a beautiful lagoon

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Location

Located on the northeast coast of Mauritius in Poste de Flacq, Prince Maurice is blessed with the beautiful beaches that adorn this side of the island, but it is also nestled among rich greenery and sits by a turquoise lagoon that’s teeming with wildlife. The hotel is 50km (a drive of around 1 hour 15 minutes) from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport and is best reached by car. The hotel can arrange transfers with prior booking.

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The vibe

This hotel oozes old-school glamour from the open-sided, wood-beamed lobby that greets you on arrival, to the beachfront restaurants and floating bar on the lagoon. There is a strong sense of serenity and seclusion; guests will feel completely immersed in nature thanks to the long stretch of golden sands, tropical vegetation and rich greenery, as well as the natural fish reserve alongside the lagoon.

Service

Prince Maurice gets service just right. Staff go above and beyond without being obtrusive, and service feels personalised and genuinely warm. The restaurant servers will be only too happy to go through the menu with you, while bar staff have a deep knowledge of the spirits and wines on offer.

Bed and bath

Rooms at Prince Maurice are either suites or villas, which are spaced out around the grounds so there’s a strong sense of privacy. Some sit right on the beach with gorgeous ocean views, while others are on stilts above the lagoon.

Reflecting the surroundings, there’s a strong focus on natural materials, with lots of dark wood – from the bed frames to the floors and window shutters. Neutral soft furnishings are accented with splashes of rich reds and burnt oranges that blend with the natural landscape, and the exceptionally comfortable, king-size beds feature beautiful crisp linen. Bathrooms are spacious with marble surfaces, and all have bathtubs.

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Food and drink

Dinner at Le Barachois, a floating restaurant on the hotel’s lagoon, is an unforgettable experience. Reached by a wooden lantern-lit boardwalk that stretches across the water, and surrounded by mangroves, the restaurant boasts a fine-dining menu focused on local seafood. Be sure to stop for a sundowner at the Barachois Bar on your way to dinner, where the cocktails are carefully crafted and can be enjoyed while gazing out across the natural fish reserve.

Archipel Restaurant feels the most formal of the dining options, serving international dishes with a Mauritian twist, and there’s an Asian restaurant on the beach, which offers plates including fresh sushi and classic Chinese dim sum.

Choices are slightly limited for vegans and vegetarians at all three restaurants – mains tend to be a rather simple mixture of vegetables rather than anything more imaginative, but it’s hard to fault the quality. Gluten-free options are also available and the hotel will accommodate other dietaries but asks to be informed in advance.

The wine cellar is very likely the best on the island (it’s the largest in the Indian Ocean), with thousands of carefully selected bottles from across the world. The excellent sommelier has an encyclopaedic knowledge of the wines, which include everything from European vintages to Mauritius’ only wine (made with lychee – and not to everyone's taste). A tasting is highly recommended.

Facilities

There’s one main infinity pool that spills onto the beachfront, and a second more secluded lap pool. The sheltered beach is perfect for swimming, and there are a number of watersports on offer, including kayaking, paddleboarding, Hobie Cats and windsurfing.

There are two beautiful clay tennis courts (although it’s worth noting that you have to either bring your own tennis balls or purchase them), and a well-equipped fitness centre including a yoga studio where classes are offered daily. These involve simple stretches and poses, making them accessible for all levels, although experienced yogis may find them a little basic. Guests of Constance Prince Maurice also have access to two 18-hole championship golf courses.

The spa is its own pocket of serenity with a peaceful seating area, along with a sauna, steam room, thermal pool and cold plunge pool. Treatments include massages, facials and aromatic body therapies, as well as manicures, pedicures and hair services in the salon.

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Accessibility

There are no specially adapted rooms, but Constance Prince Maurice says that guests with reduced mobility or disabilities can be allocated ground-floor rooms. Bathrooms in all rooms are designed to be accessible and suitable for all guests.

Pet policy

Pets are not allowed at Constance Prince Maurice.

Check-in/check-out

Check-in from 2pm, check-out by 12 noon.

Family-friendly?

Yes, children are welcomed at Constance Prince Maurice. The villas are suitable for families and there are also special family suites with adjoining children’s bedrooms. There is a kids’ club, which is free for 4-11 year olds, open from 9am to 9pm. Younger children can use the kids’ club, but must be supervised by an adult. Babysitting is available for a fee and there are special children’s menus in the restaurants.

At a glance

Best thing: The wine cellar – it’s quite possibly the best on the island.

Perfect for: Couples or anyone keen to enjoy a peaceful paradise island break.

Not right for: Holidaymakers looking for modern luxury.

Instagram from: The floating bar over the lagoon.

Address: Choisy Road, Poste de Flacq, Mauritius

Phone: +230 402 3636

Website: constancehotels.com

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Annabel was a guest of Constance Prince Maurice

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