On Mauritius’ tranquil east coast, the Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita combines lush gardens, private pool villas and world-class dining with a new design refresh by 1508 London. Already one of the Indian Ocean’s most coveted escapes, BOAT visits as the resort enters its next chapter with renewed elegance...
At dawn, the Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita emerges from the east coast’s golden glow, a vision of tropical serenity. Between the turquoise expanse of the Indian Ocean and the dramatic peaks of the Bambou Mountains, the paradisial retreat is preparing for its next chapter; London-based 1508 London is leading a transformation that will refresh the interiors and the award-winning overwater spa.
Inspired by Mauritius’ natural beauty, the refresh will introduce light-filled spaces, earthy tones and natural textures, seamlessly blending the resort with its tropical surroundings. Having opened in 2008, this marks a new era for Four Seasons Resort Mauritius, elevating an already iconic destination.
The resort is a mere 45-minute drive from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam (SSR) International Airport, but those arriving by sea are in for an even more spectacular introduction to the island. Cruising into the protected lagoon offers a first glimpse of Mauritius’ lush landscapes before mooring nearby and taking a tender to the resort’s private jetty, where a dedicated team awaits with a warm Mauritian welcome.
Spanning 64 acres, the resort weaves through swaying palms, vivid blooms and tranquil waterways. The villas – each with a private infinity-edge plunge pool and walled garden – are designed for seamless indoor-outdoor living, with floor-to-ceiling windows, al fresco rain showers and sun-drenched terraces. Lazy mornings call for floating breakfast trays.
The crown jewel is the Royal Island Sanctuary, a five-bedroom retreat accessible by a bridge on the resort’s 11-acre private island, Île aux Chats. Perfect for multi-generational family gatherings or milestone trips with loved ones, the secluded accommodation features two infinity pools stretching towards the horizon.
Dining is an event in itself, with seven restaurants and bars celebrating Mauritius’ rich cultural influences. Lazy Fish, set on Bambou Beach, captures the festive spirit with fresh seafood – think tropical ceviche, vanilla rum lobster and mahi mahi accompanied by “chouchou gratin” – with a side of traditional sega music, live performances and punchy cocktails.
The open-air Acquapazza, helmed by Michelin-starred chef Marco Garfagnini, serves up contemporary Italian fare, including deconstructed parmigiana di melanzane and tiramisu. Meanwhile, the resort’s stylish lagoon-front bar, Blu’Zil, is the perfect perch for sundowners.
There’s no shortage of ways to fill the days, whether it’s mastering Creole cuisine in a herb garden cooking class or exploring the island’s landscapes (and seascapes) with the resort’s ocean environment manager, Rick Bonnier. His guided hikes up Beau Champ Mountain are as much about storytelling as they are about adventure – expect to learn about native flora and fauna while soaking in jaw-dropping views of the coastline.
From a different perspective, snorkelling between the mangroves gives guests an appreciation of the island’s ecosystem. Sailing enthusiasts can soak up the sunset on a catamaran cruise, which offers a front-row seat to Mauritius’ natural splendour from the water.
Golf enthusiasts can tee off at two championship courses, including the Île aux Cerfs Golf Club, where resort guests get exclusive access. Families, meanwhile, are well catered for with a dedicated kids’ club and curated teen experiences, from watersports to island excursions. A short boat ride away, Île aux Cerfs is perfect for a day of exploring hidden beaches and indulging in a long beachfront lunch.
Tucked away on Mauritius’ unspoiled east coast, the Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita captures the very essence of the island’s charm with its tropical gardens, banyan trees and powder-soft beaches. And as it embarks on its transformation, it remains one of the Indian Ocean’s most exceptional escapes.
Read More/Sea spa: inside the overwater spa pavilions at Four Seasons Mauritius, Anahita