Veranda Grand Baie

A short stroll from the small town of Grand Baie on Mauritius’s north coast, you’ll find the four-star hotel, Veranda Grand Baie.

It is worth noting that the beach at the hotel is not quite on par with some of the island’s other beaches. As the bay is popular for many water sports activities, the water can be slightly ‘muddier’, and because of all the boats, it is not possible to swim everywhere.

However, the hotel’s long infinity pool with views of the bay (‘Grand Bay’) definitely offers – in our opinion – a worthy alternative, and below the hotels there is also a small white beach if you need to feel the sand between your toes. And it is difficult to find a hotel that is more perfectly located if you want water sports activities, pool life, town life, shopping and restaurant life AND a picturesque and affordable place to stay.

The hotel itself is very charming with its modern colonial style. Green plants, wooden shutters, bamboo furniture and pale colours characterise the interior in both the lobby and restaurant. The long infinity pool is located in the middle of the resort, while the delightful beach bar/restaurant overlooks the beach and cove. Just below the beach bar you will find the ‘boathouse’, where you can borrow kayaks or paddleboards. It is also from here that you can hop on the free water taxi that will take you into the centre of Grand Baie. With your stomachs – or shopping bags – full, you can easily stroll back to the hotel in less than 15 minutes.

The rooms are in small bungalows, which are located behind the communal areas. Here, you can enjoy views of the lush gardens – and it is so quiet and peaceful that it’s hard to imagine that you’re only a few minutes’ walk from the centre of Grand Baie!

A stay here generally includes half board, but it is possible to choose either bed & breakfast or all-inclusive instead.