SALT OF Palmar - Mauritius Package (5 Nights)

HOTEL OVERVIEW

The hip SALT of Palmar, set on a white sand beach on the east coast, is the first eco-hotel on Mauritius. Go for vibrant interiors by French artist Camille Walala, locally sourced organic food, a salt therapy room, cool rooftop bar, staff-led local excursions and interesting skills swap experiences.

On a white sand beach on the breezier east coast, about an hour's drive from the airport. A rocky sea bed lies directly in front of the hotel, but there's a sandy-bottomed swimming area nearby, also frequented by locals. On the doorstep are bike rides to coastal villages (electric bikes are available) and oyster and sea urchin fishing opportunities. The bustling Flacq market is a 10-minute drive away.

There is an element of playfulness in the rainbow-hued interiors designed by French artist, Camille Walala, within pale orange external walls. Bespoke pieces from local artisans means handmade crockery in the restaurant, white-painted rattan dining chairs and colourful in-room beach baskets made of recycled plastic. This is the first of a new offering from visionary hotelier Paul Jones of The Lux Collective. Television screens, buffets and single-use plastics are out, while organic local produce, natural toiletries and getting out of your hotel room are in. SALT's guests are encouraged to climb Lion Mountain, take a street food tour of Port Louis, and even attend a rehearsal of Geet Gawai singers, who perform at Hindu weddings – all bookable at the touch of an app.

A stay starts with a salt-baked pineapple welcome drink, and meditation on a beanbag by the sea. Service is personal, with staff encouraged to get to know guests. A unique skills swap concept encourages staff and guests to share their talents with each other and the wider community through a platform on the hotel's app.