Ocean view rooms and suites – many with direct access to the beach and all with large bay windows - have the stylishly understated Shangri-La look. For those seeking seclusion, nearby are three exclusive Beach Villas, each the epitome of cool with a private pool. An impressive array of restaurants and bars include beachside dining at Republik Beach Club and Grill, Indian-Mauritian concoctions at Safran overlooking the bay, the freshest contemporary Japanese cuisine at Kushi and Le Bazar for a tantalising fusion of Asian and international fare. Further relaxed feet-in-the sand restaurants are found on nearby Ile aux Cerfs, reached by private boat, which also hosts the challenging Bernhard Langer designed 18-hole championship golf course.

Active guests will be kept entertained by a variety of watersports from kayaking to waterskiing, while a Tennis Club provides further recreation. Children can escape to the T-Club, whilst teenagers have their own retreat at the Teens Club. And for a slower pace, there's CHI, The Spa specialising in intoxicatingly relaxing treatments. Carrier top tip: chill out at the trendy beach club on Ilot Mangenie– a paradisiacal island exclusively for guests.