A beachfront mansion tucked among a scenic coconut grove, 20 Degrés Sud is the spitting image of Mauritian barefoot luxury. The whole property gives off the air of a place where time stands still — thatched-roof buildings peek between palm fronds, wood-shuttered windows let in soft sea breezes and stately terraces let you stare out at the sunset over the ocean.
The sense of timelessness begins the moment you step through the antique carriage door that serves as the property’s entrance. On the other side, a vintage boat offers atmospheric dinner cruises, a spa can be found amongst a secret garden and a wood-paneled lounge lets you while away a rainy day with billiards and books read in soft leather armchairs.
While there are plenty of adventures to be had here (snorkeling, golf and island excursions), we wouldn’t blame you for embracing 20 Degrés Sud’s sense of island time with a day spent swinging in a white hammock beneath the palms.
- Ocean views aside, 20 Degrés Sud’s biggest draw might just be its quirky vintage vibe. Clawfoot tubs, bronze telescopes and black-and-white photographs provide a delightfully nostalgic (and stylish) step back in time.
- A dinner cruise aboard the M/S Lady Lisbeth is a must. The restored early 20th-century schooner is the oldest motorboat on the island and provides yet another yesteryear touch to the resort.
- Tucked away in a secluded garden, 20 Degrés Secret Spa is a serene spot for some post-sun pampering. Take a dip in the pool before a stint in the Moroccan-inspired hammam or indulging in a muscle-melting massage.
- Make the most of your island escape with the myriad adventures on offer at the resort’s boat house. Try your hand at kayaking or windsurfing, or dive beneath the waves during a twice-daily guided snorkeling expedition.
- The luxury hotel is anchored by a gorgeous rectangular pool flanked by canopied day beds and white hammocks. Embrace island life with an afternoon dip under the palms.
- If you’d rather stay dry, 20 Degrés Sud can also arrange an array of land-based excursions, like horseback riding, quad biking or hiking. More leisurely cultural pursuits like tasting tours through towns like Port Louis or Mahebourg are also available.
- Due to the romantic nature of the intimate Mauritius hotel, children under 12 are not permitted to stay.
- As part of the hotel’s commitment to supporting the local population, nearly all of the 100-person staff are islanders. This also all but guarantees you a warm, authentic stay.
- Imagined by Belgian interior design firm Flamant, all 36 rooms and suites give off a retro, island-chic vibe with canopied four-poster beds, dark wood furniture and vintage accents like telescopes, oversized wall clocks and bronze lamps.
- All accommodations boast claw-foot soaking tubs, though suites up the ante with alfresco Jacuzzis or private plunge pools.
- The two-story Secret Suite makes for an extra romantic retreat with its secluded location, 24-foot pool and private beach access. A whirlpool bathtub and upstairs terrace overlooking the sea are particularly attractive bonuses.
- Dine on fine French fare with a local twist at L’Explorateur. The Creole-inspired menu features beautifully presented plates like sweet and sour octopus with green papaya, Mauritian chicken curry and Madagascan prawn ceviche.
- L’Exploratuer chef Sanjeev Purahoo’s international creations can be savored in the elegant restaurant, beneath the stars on the poolside patio or bayside with your toes in the golden sand.
- Step back in time with an intimate dinner cruise aboard the M/S Lady Lisbeth, a schooner that provides an atmospheric spot to enjoy a multi-course menu of lobster with lemony butter, a fruit sauce-topped snapper and other seafood.
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