Colonial Splendor

06 Dec 2018
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3 min read
FOUR visits The Residence Mauritius, a gem on the east coast of Mauritius that immerses you in the elegance and sophistication of the island’s historical plantation lifestyle.

There are few better backdrops than that of The Residence, with its horizon of azure blue waters hugging long stretches of pearly white sand, with scatterings of palm trees and
cloudless topaz skies. It is no wonder that The Residence is a long-time favourite on the island of Mauritius, with guests venturing back year after year to get another glimpse of its exceptional views.

The views are not the only draw card, though, as the Cenizaro group makes every effort to ensure that the experience is as memorable as the setting. The service, the cuisine and the amenities are all flawless, and complemented perfectly by the warm Mauritian
hospitality. A personal butler sees to the needs of all guests, from unpacking your bags to running your bubble bath, your stay at The Residence will be nothing short of luxurious.

The hotel is inspired by the history of the island, using turn-of-the-century plantation houses as its architectural and design muse. Thus, the hotel boasts a colonial charm, with a contemporary yet sophisticated elegance. Another perfectly executed objet d’art by renowned architects Jean-Paul Ruaudel and Christian Denizot.

Hirsch Bedner Associates used its expertise to tastefully decorate all 135 guest rooms and 28 suites. Paying tribute to the finesse of the plantation lifestyle, the rooms and suites are colonial-era time machines. Draped in the calmative colours of white and taupe and embellished with honey-tinted woods and wrought iron, their grandeur takes you right back to the renowned plantation manors of the 19th century. Even the size of the rooms will have you convinced you are in your own manor house, and when you walk out on to the terrace or balcony, the ceaseless view of lush tropical vegetation and crystal-clear ocean waters are sure to play right into this fantasy.

The pièce de résistance of the property, however, is the reception. Open to the elements, pops of bright colour from the surrounding lush fauna bejewel the lofty reception, which has the characteristic high ceilings, bare trusses and tall columns of an opulent manor house. The ornate wooden Indian wall carvings add the last bit of panache that make the reception a masterpiece.

The newly refurbished Sanctuary Spa on the property is also a spectacle, with 10 indoor treatment rooms and an 11th hidden amongst the tropical gardens, overlooking the
lagoon. The spa uses luxury French beauty brand Carita as their beauty product of choice, and offers specialised treatments for both adults and children, ensuring that wellness is a family affair.

Relaxation is a top priority at The Residence, with the beach and swimming pool enticing you to throw down a towel and catch a tan while absorbing the spectacular surroundings. However, for any traveller heading to an island, there is always that insatiable desire to spend your days frolicking in the water, looking through those massive snorkelling googles into the schools of multicoloured fish weaving their way through the water, or jumping into
a kayak and taking off on your own expedition. The Residence meets all these expectations, offering an abundance of water-based activities to sate everyone’s needs.

The position of The Residence makes it an adventurer’s paradise. Located on Belle Mare, which is one of the longest and most breathtaking beaches on the island, you are perfectly situated to explore Mauritius’ east coast, dotted with spectacular coves, extraordinary dive sites and glistening lagoons.

When you return from your activity-filled day, The Residence ensures that you are treated to only the finest of food. There are three separate dining facilities, providing a variety of fresh and delicious cuisine inspired by the exotic blend of flavours and cultures found on the island.

The Dining Room is an elegant affair, overlooking the beach and providing an á la carte gastronomic experience that combines the best of French and Mauritian cooking. For
those interested in the traditional Creole style of cooking, and on some nights music and dance, The Plantation serves up the freshest seafood cooked using the native methods,
providing an authentic yet scrumptious Creole experience.

A banquet for the senses, The Residence hotel exudes luxury, decadence and pleasure, and provides all the key ingredients needed to have a memorable, picturesque holiday in the heart of the Indian Ocean.