Open: December 20I7

WE’RE fans of retro-chic and barefoot luxury. So the new LUX* Grand Gaube is looking good to us.  Yes LUX* has done it again, unveiling a reimagined resort unlike anything else on the island.

Located on the African island’s north coast, the Lux* Grand Gaube has been reimagined by Mauritian architect Jean-Francois Adam and uber-designer Kelly Hoppen. The fresh new approach to the interiors come courtesy of Hoppen  (who also designed the Lux* Belle Mare on Mauritius's southern coast) who in true Hoppen-style delivers an eclectic retro-chic look that’s effortlessly sophisticated, yet blissfully informal. Perfect for the island lifestyle.

Hoppen has channelled memories of her favourite holidays in Cape Town, Capri, Mallorca and Antigua, and layered the rooms and public spaces with ceramics, hand-picked accessories, vintage rattan and soft furnishings. Bedrooms are spindrift-white with hand-painted navy blue lines, woven African baskets, wicker tables and geometric tiles.  London street artist Camille Walala has painted murals at the resort, bringing her much-Instagrammed brightly coloured designs to Mauritius for the first time.

Chelsea Flower Show winner Stephen Woodhams has designed the gardens, which feature yellow, orange and pink bougainvillaea, green araucaria and grand banyans. Set amongst sprawling multi-tiered tropical gardens the resort invites relaxation with swaying hammocks and secluded shady spots for time alone… or together. LUX* Grand Gaube is surrounded by undulating coves and calm lagoons.  There are also two tranquil beaches to explore.  The generously proportioned rooms have balconies or terraces and there are also romantic junior suites.  However, TLTB readers will probably want to head for the showstopper villas with private pools and gardens - all complete with Indian Ocean vistas.

Foodwise there are live cooking stations at the Palm Court, Peruvian and Argentinian cuisine at INTI, authentic Creole flavours at Bayan and a Turkish twist at Bodrum Blue. With latin lounge music, love seats and ocean vistas INTI is a first for Mauritius. Add Cafe LUX*, the Beach Rouge dining club, and resort living has never looked or tasted so good.

There’s an abundance of places to relax or refuel, including two stunning pools. Expect extensive sports and wellness facilities featuring a new spa, fitness, tennis academy, golf and water sports. To tempt you from your lounger, there are also a number of inspirational classes and expert-led workshops.

Luxury Links: www.luxresorts.com

Posted 9/10/17