LUX* Grand Baie Resort & Residences, Mauritius

LUX* Grand Baie arrived amid considerable anticipation and it does not disappoint at first glance. The location alone — on the site of what was once Merville Beach, one of Mauritius’s original resort plots — is superb: a wide, sunset-facing stretch of sand on Grand Baie’s best beach.

The entrance makes an immediate impression. The lobby sits on the first floor, opening onto a viewing balcony that takes in manicured gardens, soaring palms, and a fountain centrepiece that feels more Cote d’Azur than Indian Ocean. The architecture is bold and contemporary — nautical-inspired curved thatched shades, clean lines, and plenty of glass keeping things light and airy. That aesthetic carries through to the spa, spread over three floors with an excellent aqua journey circuit and a gym that would satisfy serious fitness travellers.

The Junior Suites are generous and comfortable, though the minimalist Kelly Hoppen interiors are tasteful rather than strongly characterful — close the blinds and you could be anywhere. The real magic lies in the seven two- and three-bedroom villas on their own quiet stretch of beach. These are outstanding — contemporary, beautifully positioned, and likely to command a significant premium as word spreads.

Dining is a mixed bag. Bisou, the rooftop, is the standout — tapas and cocktails against a panoramic sunset backdrop with a distinctly Miami energy. Breakfast here, booked quietly, is the smart play. The main restaurant, Beach Rouge, leans casual and family-friendly, which works well for younger guests but may feel less comfortable for a more mature crowd. Ai Kisu offers Asian fusion on the ground floor; it is pleasant enough but not particularly distinctive compared to similar venues anywhere else. With only three restaurants, another option would feel more appropriate for a resort at this level, though the proximity of Grand Baie’s dining scene provides a welcome safety valve.

Overall, LUX* Grand Baie sets a new benchmark for Mauritius. Whether it fully closes the gap with the Maldives and Seychelles is subjective — but it adds a genuinely new option at the top end, and it is hard to imagine local competitors ignoring the direction this sets.

LUX* Grand Baie is a boutique resort situated on a crescent of beach at the heart of Grand Baie on Mauritius's north coast. The property occupies one of the island's finest beaches, overlooking a sheltered turquoise lagoon.

Transfer from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport takes approximately 75 minutes by road.

The resort comprises 116 suites, villas, and residences designed by interior designer Kelly Hoppen and architect Jean Francois Adam. The architecture is modernist in style, with clean geometric lines, extensive glazing, and a light-filled atmosphere. Accommodation ranges from spacious Junior Suites within the main building to two- and three-bedroom beachfront villas with private beach access.

Three dining venues are available: Beach Rouge, the main restaurant offering casual all-day dining; Bisou, a rooftop restaurant and bar with an infinity pool serving tapas-style dishes; and Ai Kisu, an Asian fusion restaurant. The boutiques and restaurants of Grand Baie town are within walking distance.

Additional facilities include a wellness spa spanning three floors with an indoor aqua journey, a well-equipped fitness suite, and a children's club. The resort operates with a sustainability policy aligned with the LUX* brand ethos.