In our series of articles, we’ll take you through the places to stay in Mauritius. If you choose the north-western side of the island, you probably won’t be disappointed, as Mauritius has mostly windless and sunny beaches in the north and northwest. Balaclava Beach is the first beach with hotels scattered along it as you head north over Port Loius on the west side.
Ocean’s Creek Beach Hotel – budget category
The Ocean’s Creek Beach Hotel is a 4-star ultra budget resort in the southernmost tip of Balaclava at the mouth of the Tombeau River, just 100 meters from La Goulet beach.
Positives:
- Close to Port Louis, so easy access to the capital’s attractions.
- Car hire is available from the hotel.
- It has its own swimming pool, jacuzzi and Turkish bath, as well as several water slides for young and old.
- Water sports: ideal for snorkelling.
- Beach and sunset: the nearby beach offers a wonderful panoramic view and sunset.
- The property offers a 24-hour reception, airport shuttle, kids’ club and free WiFi throughout the property.
- It has 2 private restaurants and a bar
- Very friendly, welcoming staff.
Negatives:
- Poor choice of restaurants
- Out of the way location, other shopping, restaurants can only be reached by taxi, hire car.
- Due to the distance of the Tombeau River, the ocean is not always the beautiful turquoise that one would expect during an oceanfront vacation.
Maritim Resort & Spa Mauritius– medium category
A luxury hotel set in a vast tropical garden at a medium price, with a palm-fringed white sand beach, private golf course, riding stables and petting zoo. In the area there is the possibility of a longer walk to the historic ruins of Balaclava and the waterfall of the Citron River. The Maritim Resort & Spa Mauritius is praised for its impeccable rooms and well-kept surroundings. The hotel’s relaxed atmosphere and cultural offerings, as well as the high quality of its services, leave a very positive impression.
Positives:
- Beach: picture-postcard palm-fringed coastline with stunning sunsets
- restaurants: the hotel has several excellent restaurants
- Activities: guests can relax in the wellness centre, take diving lessons, play golf, go horse riding or even take a long walk in the vast gardens.
- Water sports: this part of the ocean is a nature reserve and offers excellent opportunities for snorkelling and diving.
- Staff: Smiling, friendly.
Negatives:
- Distance: You can’t just walk into town for dining and shopping, it’s worth taking a taxi.
- Sometimes there is some disruption with cleaning and maintenance.
The Oberoi Beach Resort – Luxury category
The Oberoi Beach Resort is located in the northernmost part of Balaclava, right on the pristine white beach of Turtle Bay, a natural marine park. Set in a vast, lush, tropical garden, the hotel offers views of breathtaking sunsets and star-filled night skies. Wonderful traditional thatched-roof accommodation. Its unique restaurants serve authentic Creole and international cuisine. All complemented by warm, intuitive hospitality at this five-star Mauritian hotel.
Positives:
- Coast: picture-postcard palm-fringed beach with turquoise ocean.
- Restaurants: the hotel has three excellent restaurants; they feature authentic Creole with a selection of grilled and international dishes.
- The hotel’s facilities include water sports, swimming pools, spa, wellness and fitness centre.
- Sornkeling in the special marine park in front of the hotel.
- Staff: the real welcoming atmosphere
- Wonderful private garden and beach area with stunning sunsets
- Authentic thatched-roof accommodation, comfortable luxury rooms with immaculate cleanliness
Negatives:
- Distance: you can’t just walk into town, it’s worth taking a taxi.
