Petit Raffray Vacations from $1,686

We enjoyed our week-long stay at Seasense and would give it a 4.5 score if we could. This small 63-room adult-only boutique hotel is beautifully designed and the rooms are well appointed. Service is friendly and attentive, but can be slow at mealtimes. The exclusive beach is quite small and shallow but fine for a splash or a snorkel. The pretty à la carte restaurant is right by the sea, and there was no shortage of loungers, including with shade. The small pool is heated and lovely for a quick dip. The modest spa and sauna is a nice touch. Two issues however. First, noise from the road: the hotel is sandwiched on a small strip or land between the main coast road and the sea. More importantly, we found the food quite variable: occasionally excellent, always presented beautifully, but often bland and under-seasoned and cold. A shame given the reputation of Mauritian cuisine. Also, half the menu items (and nearly all the fish options) are subject to hefty supplements. The buffet night (combined with a free cocktail party for guests) was however enjoyable.

Amazing view

No matter how good the amenities or how beautiful the views, a hotel is only as good as the people who work there. In this respect, Shanti’s friendly, polite and efficient staff elevate it to among the best on the island. A thoroughly enjoyable experience from start to finish.