Spa connoisseurs should head to Mauritius

Spa connoisseurs looking for the perfect tropical island on which to lie back and get pampered and pummelled should head to Mauritius, one of the most relaxing islands in the world.

The upscale Mövenpick Resort & Spa has 1,800 square metres of Zen inspired space – the Aldana Spa. This tropical haven is crowned by a stunning roof terrace and solarium with a circular pool and 360 degree views - inland across the lush landscape or out to the Indian Ocean. The specially designed beach gazebo offers ‘outdoor’ treatments with views out to sea. There are also seven pavilion treatment rooms (4 singles and 3 doubles) for a variety of massages, complemented by 6 hydro therapy rooms, a whirlpool, sauna and water walk corridor. A relaxation area, a hammam and health bar, complete the spa facilities.

Massages range from Thai and Swedish, to Stone therapy and Shiatsu. Local body treatments include an excellent Coconut Scrub to exfoliate the skin or a hydrating after sun cooler made up from cucumber, aloe and clay. Visitors also like the Black Soap body cleansing ritual followed by a Cacao wrap, which leaves the skin feeling exceptionally smooth. The choice of facials is equally tempting and range from simple cleansing and toning, to treatments aimed at more mature skins and tackling specific problem areas.

With its own 500 metre stretch of sandy beach protected by a coral reef and exquisite service and hospitality, spa enthusiasts are guaranteed additional temptations.

The Mövenpick Resort & Spa offers a unique atmosphere of a traditional sugar cane plantation from the early 17th century and this history is reflected throughout the resort.

The elegant design is Dutch and English influenced and the opulent rooms are decorated in traditional Portuguese and Moorish styles, all reflecting the cultural diversity of the island. The resort features a number of exclusive suites and villas including the Royal Suite that can accommodate up to eight adults and two children under five.

This luxuriously decorated villa includes a dining room, living room, two master bedrooms with outdoor shower and Jacuzzi in a private garden plus two other en-suite bedrooms. Located on the seafront this villa offers the ultimate in luxury private accommodation.

The hotel offers first class service, excellent cuisine, exceptional facilities and a dive centre, plus a wide range of sporting activities from windsurfing and waterskiing , to golf or fishing, and from tennis to mountain biking. For those looking to explore the island there are a variety of half and full day excursions to the nature reserves and the Botanical Gardens, or for the shopaholics - a trip to the island’s capital, Port Louis.

Prices are from €284 per room per night based on two people sharing and on a half board basis in February to March 2009.

For further information, log on to Moevenpick-mauritius.com.