LUX* Grand Gaube, Mauritius, Indian Ocean

Mauritius is one of the first islands that springs to mind when you think about the classic beach retreat experience. Resting sleepily on Mauritius' northern coast, LUX* Grand Gaube is the tropical escape you had probably been imagining but it does far more than tick the 'sun, sea and sand' boxes. It grabs your attention from the moment you arrive and set eyes on its pair of secluded coves. This is languid island living at its finest, where the pace of your stay will go no faster than the gentle sway of palms which speckle the sandy bays.

It's an easy-going tempo mirrored in the neighbouring fishing village of the same name but the eclectic nature of the resort means it doesn't always move to the same beat: there's something here for everyone. Live music and DJs at its restaurants and bars speed up the rhythm of island life, while LUX* Grand Gaube masters the art of balancing sophistication with an informal atmosphere. This is best shown in the thatch-topped rooms, all born out of the creative mind of British designer Kelly Hoppen. They're refined in their whitewashed walls and drapes of bougainvillea à la Mediterranean, while a diverse mix of vintage furniture and potted plants bring the informality. Each room is also sea-facing, taking full advantage of the resort's position presiding over the Indian Ocean.

LUX* Grand Gaube's retro-chic style of living is easy to fall in love with and its unhurried ambience is exactly how an island retreat should be. And as you're lying there looking out across the Indian Ocean, you can't fail to raise a smile as wide as the very bay you're relaxing on.