Stylia Villas

The hotel's exterior is sleek and understated with only an electronic gate at the entrance to hint at the beautiful grounds within. Instead of a dedicated lobby, guests head straight to their villa for check-in. The narrow pathway connecting each villa is beautifully lush with tropical greenery to remind guests where they are. As each villa sleeps nine people, guests are likely to be large families or groups of couples traveling together. With no common areas or social scene other than at the tiny beach, the entire atmosphere is defined within each villa. This is a property for guests who want a relaxed beachfront vacation, and are happy to forego traditional hotel amenities in favor of a self-catered experience.

Located on Mauritius’ extreme eastern edge, the town of Trou d'eau Douce is a haven of upscale vacation homes and modern boutique guesthouses. On foot, the small town center is 20 minutes south. Here, guests will find a dozen mom-and-pop restaurants, gas stations, and a full-service supermarket (ideal for stocking villa kitchens). The area’s most popular attraction, Ile aux Cerfs, is reachable in 35 minutes via a combination taxi and ferry ride. At this island playground, guests will find numerous restaurants, a wide range of water sports, and an 18-hole championship golf course. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU) is best reached via taxi or shuttle -- both are easy to find and inexpensive throughout the island.

Villa decor is bright, modern, and tasteful in all six units. Concrete flooring, liberal use of glass and metal, and wicker resin furniture blends upscale coastal and modern minimalist aesthetics. The look is a distinct departure from the design of most area guesthouses, although it may feel a bit too sparse and contemporary for some. Villa layouts are identical: a spacious, two-story floor plan with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, a full kitchen with stainless steel appliances, and living and dining areas. Villas differ only in views of either the garden or the beach. The open-concept, first-floor living space opens to a private terrace and plunge pool with optional ocean views. The list of in-room amenities is long. Fast, free Wi-Fi is provided via a dedicated router, satellite HDTVs are available in the living room, and a state-of-the-art alarm system provides an additional level of security. Air-conditioning is only available in bedrooms. Every villa is otherwise cooled naturally, although the oceanfront location ensures constant cool breezes even in the summer.Bathrooms are bright and generously sized. Large shower stalls and dual vanities provide a sense of upscale modernity. The only shower amenity is a small bar of generic hand soap.

Since this is a collection of fully equipped villas with private plunge pools, there are few amenities aside from the stunning beach. A handful of lounge chairs and umbrellas provides shaded seating exclusively for hotel guests. With no available bar or water sports, it’s clear the intent is just to relax. Sunrise views from the east-facing beach are breathtaking. The water is typically calm in any season, making it ideal for swimming or snorkeling.There is no on-site restaurant. However, room service or in-room chef service is available via an extensive menu. Basic western-friendly fare like pasta and pizza, plus local delicacies like curry and seafood dishes, are all available. Most meals are cooked off-site and so must be ordered well in advance. Free self-parking is available in a secure, gated lot.