Le Cardinal Resort

The hotel centres around a large, glittering, ocean-facing pool. To one side, the formal dining area offers both indoor seating and a more casual deck outside (the smoked marlin is a treat!). For casual dining, head to the beach bar, where umbrellas shade simple wooden tables with spectacular views. The smart Piano Bar and plush adjacent lounge are great for cocktails. Massages are offered on-site, and you're welcome to use the gym, tennis court and spa at nearby Casuarina Hotel.

The 13 spacious air-conditioned suites include junior suites, two penthouses and a family duplex. The junior suites have double beds, a comfortable lounge and small sea-facing balcony. The duplex has an extra bedroom with a bunk bed as well as a pull-out sleeper couch. All bathrooms are open-plan and en-suite, with showers and free-standing tubs. The penthouses are substantially larger both inside and out, with ample seating and beautiful wooden floors. One has a plunge pool; the other a Jacuzzi.

In Mauritius you can be as active or inactive as you like. Relax on the sands or take advantage of Le Cardinal's complimentary activities – snorkelling, kayaking, pedal-boating and sailing in a glass-bottomed boat. Diving and water-skiing can easily be arranged with nearby operators, and there are a few golf courses within a couple of kilometres. Fancy a party? There's a humming nightlife around the corner at Grand Baie Beach, or a more chilled vibe five minutes away in Trou-aux-Biches.