The new Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort and Villas boasts a melting pot of influences from the archipelago’s history.

Nestled on Le Chaland Beach along the south-eastern coast of Mauritius, Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort & Villas is a tranquil hideaway, located south of the island’s old capital of Mahebourg.

The 10-minute drive from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport to the resort is scenic, fringed by acres of sugarcane and historical landmarks, and passes close to Blue Bay Marine Park – a leisure destination boasting a protected marine park, crystal-clear Indian Ocean waters perfect for snorkelling and diving.

The property’s design reflects the melting pot history of the country, drawing influences from the rich architectural heritage seen in the capital Port Louis and around the island. Natural, locally sourced materials take precedence, with the use of volcanic stone, basalt, driftwood crafted by local artisans, scattered light and wave-and-ripple patterns blurring the line between the indoor and the outdoor.

Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort’s 164 guest rooms and suites offer stylish bedrooms, bathrooms with a rain shower and separate bathtub, and a terrace or balcony with a daybed overlooking either the resort’s lush tropical gardens or the Indian Ocean. Eight luxury Pool Villas – two with two bedrooms and six with four bedrooms – will launch next summer.

Anantara Spa offers a range of therapeutic treatments including traditional massage therapies, detox treatments and rituals in the spa’s Turkish hammam but the focal point of the resort is the 30-metre ozone-based swimming pool.

The resort’s multiple dining options are a gastro tribute to Mauritian cultural heritage bringing together Indian, French, Dutch, Creole and Chinese flavours. The property features signature restaurant, Sea.Fire.Salt, tailored, private dining at Zafran, Bon Manzer for nutrient-dense food, Horizon, for all-day dining, while Karokan Poolside Bar serves tropical beverages.

Guests may indulge in Dining by Design, which offers couples and small groups a choice of connoisseur menus coupled with idyllic settings, together with the services of a personal chef and private butler. There are cooking classes where foodies can learn how to cook flavoursome traditional creole dishes, which includes a visit to a fresh food market.

For those wishing to explore the south east corner of the island, many nature, historical and adventure activities can be found, including taking in the spectacular scenery and joining the hotel’s Cultural Guru on a journey of discovery of the Mauritius of a bygone era.

Just 15 minutes’ drive from the resort is Mahebourg, the first capital of Mauritius, known for its local market, museums, fortifications and the historic battles between the French and British. Guests interested in flora and fauna can visit nearby nature reserve ‘Ile aux Aigrettes’. A little further away is Black River Gorges National Park, famous for its waterfalls, vistas and hiking, and for the more adventurous, quad biking and zip lining.

Golf is another popular pastime and discerning players are spoilt for choice with over a dozen courses in scenic locations across the island.