Le Boucan Canot

The exquisite arrangement of decks, gardens and pools at Le Boucan balance Reunion's raw beauty with a tidy sense of habitability. There are wide panoramas from almost every corner. The restaurant deck offers plenty of space for alfresco dining, as does the poolside deck. La Table restaurant serves up exquisite French cuisine and the freshest seafood. But the main attraction is being able to step down to the beach, with its swathe of white sand and natural tidal pool.

The 42 guestrooms range from the elegant bungalow-like Ocean Suite to the more hotel-style Deluxe rooms, but all are quite lovely in that light and airy beachside style, with a refined edge. Ocean Suites are frankly luxurious, well built with quality finishings, a separate master bedroom and lounge, and a wide veranda open to the beach. Deluxe rooms accommodate two comfortably, and also offer sea views from their private balconies. Mod cons throughout include a minibar, A/C and coffee/tea-making facilities.

Mix leisure and adventure. Enjoy a day of spa pampering, cocktailing and elegant dining – everything required for all-around restoration. When you've unwound, there's a bevy of activities to get your adrenalin thrumming, from paragliding over the reef-lined coast and deep-sea fishing to hiking the interiors. Appreciate it all from above on a helicopter flip. There's shopping, nightlife and fun to be had in Saint-Gilles-Les-Bains, and numerous cheaper restaurants along the beach to try.