The Oberoi

This unique and exclusive retreat is located at Turtle Bay on the north-west coast of Mauritius. A sanctuary for couples and honeymooners, The Oberoi’s 20 acres of lush tropical gardens are not only surrounded by a turquoise lagoon but they also enjoy 600 metres of oceanfront with silver white sand and views of verdant green mountains on the horizon. This is Indian Ocean paradise at its romantic best!

Inspired by Mauritian heritage and culture, The Oberoi is a wonderful collage of subtle colours, natural textures and unusual architecture - all of which blend serenely with the pristine surroundings. The use of indigenous materials such as coconut wood and sugar-cane thatch reinforces the ‘eco-sensitive design concept’ which prevails throughout - and the same care for environmental conservation is evident in the choice of artwork and artefacts (images depicting local scenes have been creatively mounted on handmade recycled paper). The result is one of casual elegance with an intricate cultural richness.

A series of open-sided pavilions make up the public areas - each one carefully positioned to take full advantage of the views across the azure lagoon. Meandering pathways lead to The Oberoi’s much-acclaimed stylish accommodation which comprises Luxury Pavilions, Luxury Villas and two Royal Villas.

Exquisitely appointed and covering an area of 70 square metres each, The Pavilions boast an open-plan living area with a kingsize bedroom, a relaxing terrace (perfect for private candlelit dinners) - and a fabulous bathroom with a sunken marble bath and a separate shower which looks on to an open-air walled garden.

The Villas are a haven of peace and privacy, set within an indulgent 325 square metre walled tropical garden where an elevated open-air dining pavilion looks out across the magnificent lagoon and the Indian Ocean. They enjoy the same features as the Pavilions but with the additional expansive space - and sixteen of the Villas have their own private swimming pool - 8 x 4.5 metres.

For the ultimate extravagance, the two sumptuous and elegantly appointed Royal Villas (picture 1) are perfectly suited to romantic couples or families looking for a lavish refuge away from the pressures of day-to-day life.

If the sun, sand and ocean breezes are not enough to soothe your body and soul, then pamper yourself with a revitalising treatment at the exquisitely appointed Oberoi Spa by Banyan Tree.

Water-skiing, deep sea fishing, scuba diving, snorkelling, hobie-cat and catamaran sailing will easily fill your days - and there are some tennis courts too. The open-air thatched restaurant serves International, Creole and Oriental cuisine whilst refreshing salads and light snacks are available by the poolside during the day - and as each evening draws closer, unwind in the bar with yet another spectacular sunset for company.

PRICES Prices per person for 7 nights in a Luxury Pavilion range from £1354 in low season (£180 per person per night) to £1816 in high season (£246 per person per night) including breakfast and the return airport transfers.