THE FACTS ABOUT VILLA AZUR

Mauritius

The area of Poste Lafayette is just south of Roches Noires, about a 10-minute drive from the island's most luxurious hotels, including Le Prince Maurice and One&Only Le Saint Géran. There's more than a touch of the South of France about Villa Azur, which has a walled back garden with a private swimming pool flanked by three cabana-like, en-suite bedrooms (the main house has two bedrooms, one with a private, sea-facing terrace and another with bunk beds for children). The front of the house opens onto a wide, thatched terrace built from black volcanic rock that faces a long, quiet beach. With two dining and seating areas, inside and out, there is enough room for a group of friends, who would also appreciate the privacy of the garden rooms. The house is decorated in fresh, minty greens, creams and yellows and is well furnished and equipped for outdoor living. The mood is relaxed and stylish with books and art works. The villa sleeps eight adults in four twin-bedded rooms, plus two children in bunks. There is a housekeeper and maid, six days a week. CONTACT Villas de Maitre (01296 334 138; www.villasdemaitre.com), Elegant Resorts (01244 897 444; www.elegantresorts.co.uk) or The Owners' Syndicate (020 7801 9809; www.ownerssyndicate.com), where it is known as 'Velloutiers'. COST From £340 a night