Back in 2016, my first educational trip as an independent travel agent was to discover the beautiful Indian Ocean island of Mauritius and experience the eight fantastic resorts that specialist tour operator Beachcomber had to offer.
It was a whirlwind week with many memorable moments, so when I learned in 2019 that my whole company was going to be rewarded with a four-night stay at Beachcomber’s Shandrani resort, I knew we were in for a treat.
Delayed by the pandemic, the trip finally took place this summer, although things got off to a slow start when those of us travelling from Manchester were delayed due to technical difficulties and missed our connecting flight in Dubai.
To their credit, Emirates were super-organised and moved us onto the next Mauritius flight, with a comfortable and quiet room provided within the airport hotel - perfect for a long layover.
On my last visit, we flew into the Mauritius resort by helicopter from the stunning Le Morne peninsula and whilst I didn’t arrive in quite such style this time, I was thankful that Shandrani is just a ten-minute transfer from the airport and the wonderful staff were waiting with a refreshing welcome drink.
Shandrani Beachcomber Resort & Spa
Being so close to the airport is not an issue due to infrequent flights onto the island. In fact, the Emirates A380 coming in for landing always gathers an audience of guests.
On my previous stay here, I loved how spacious the resort felt. Set on 70 acres, its three beaches each offer a different feel, and whilst waking early for a sunrise stroll along the ‘wild beach’ was a great idea, I only managed it on the first morning due to a hectic schedule!
I stayed in a superior room overlooking the calm waters of the Blue Bay Marine Park and it was lovely to have time to experience and enjoy the resort.
In all Beachcomber resorts, complimentary land and water sports are available, so it’s an ideal opportunity to try something new.
The resort boasts tennis courts, a 9-hole pitch and putt, a gym, water skiing school, windsurfing, kayaks, pedal boats, or the more sedate glass bottom boat tours. If travelling as a family, the complimentary kids' club provides adult time to enjoy the stunning spa or relax by one of the two pools.
Food plays a huge part in deciding where to go on my own holidays and as expected, Shandrani didn’t disappoint. The main buffet restaurant offers a varied selection of local and international dishes with live cooking stations, and I was really impressed with Teak Elephant, the Thai restaurant serving authentic dishes.
For our final night's gala dinner at Le Sirius restaurant, we were served spectacular Mauritian dishes in fine dining style before an impressive display of celebratory fireworks on the beach.
Beachcomber trips are not just about the hotels but also the opportunity to showcase and provide experiences of what the island has to offer.
Whilst some colleagues explored villages by bike, took a rum-fuelled cruise or savoured fragrant tea amongst the beautiful tea plantations, I opted for some adrenalin-rushing adventure across the Vallée des Couleurs Natural Park. Seven zip lines provided a thrilling aerial view of this beautiful part of the island, including waterfalls and the 23 coloured earth that’s unique to Mauritius.
Canonnier Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa
No work trip is complete without exploring hotels to be able to provide clients with personal insight, and I was excited to return to a couple.
Canonnier has undergone a full refurbishment since my last visit and remains one of my favourites. I particularly love the choice of small, quiet beaches, the kids’ club located in an old fort and the spa surrounded by an ancient banyan tree. We had a delicious lunch sampling some local curries before heading to Victoria Beachcomber.
Victoria Beachcomber Resort & Spa
A recent addition is Victoria for 2, an adult-only area of this resort where several clients have provided glowing reports. I can totally see why people love it. There are two room categories - the sought-after swim-up rooms and first floor ocean view with a large balcony and amazing views, perfect for a sundowner.
The rooms are incredibly spacious and with only 40 available, it’s a perfect couples retreat with quiet romantic meals available in the two dedicated restaurants. Or if you prefer something livelier, the restaurants and facilities of the main hotel are available to Victoria for 2 guests.
The beach at Victoria is simply stunning – wide, soft sand and with some of the best sunsets on the island.
Trou aux Biches Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa
Trou Aux Biches is another personal favourite with its comfort, understated luxury and incredibly welcoming staff (as in all Beachcomber hotels) who look after your every whim.
Another spacious resort, there’s a large choice of rooms, from junior suites to beachfront suites with plunge pools, or the ultimate private pool villas.
The sports offered here are exceptional with a recently refurbished gym, fitness class program, tennis courts and access to Mont Choisy golf course.
The resort has recently been enhanced to offer an extensive all-inclusive package with buffet and à la carte dining, picnic baskets if you are out exploring the island and international drinks. If staying more than seven nights, a unique Beachcomber Experience is included so you can enjoy the spa, diving, golf, wine tasting or a cooking class.
Whichever Beachcomber all-inclusive resort you choose, the package starts from the moment you arrive at the hotel, so you're instantly in holiday mode!
A huge thank you to all the Beachcomber staff in Mauritius and the UK for so generously hosting and sharing this beautiful island with us.