Tucked into the torso of Le Morne mountains – the highest property of the region – overlooking the long, pristine stretch of Le Morne Beach, the turquoise lagoon, the esteemed golf course of Le Paradis Resort, the magnificent mountain ranges in the distance and the vastness of the ocean, this hideaway alludes to a tropical life on a legendary ship, gliding with the west coast tides.
Built in 1969 by one of the oldest, most revered construction companies in Mauritius, Villa Cambier reveals a unique tale about the island’s heritage and its gradual evolution over time. An avant-garde statement in its form – with its bold cement angular features and monolithic spaces all opening out to 360-degree views of the landscape – this hideaway induces an air of opulence yet retains its charm in the subtle signature pieces of art, the conscious use of colours and marrying contemporary with antique furnishings. Set on four capacious levels of open-plan entertaining, living and dining spaces, the views draw you out from every angle, allowing the salty sea and crisp mountain air to permeate each room. Five mammoth ensuite bedrooms occupy the different levels of the villa, adjoining the long verandahs and ample reclining spaces that incite a rockstar spirit to the holiday.
Spending time on the southern west coast of the island sets the wheels in motion for a truly hedonistic holiday. You might be inclined to take to the surf and sail beneath the kites for hours on end, or trek into the mountains, navigating the rugged trails in the wilderness. Or venture to the neighbouring luxury hotspots of Le Paradis Beach Resort and LUX Le Morne for endless rounds of golf and dreamy spa sessions. Perhaps the whole clan will climb aboard a yacht and sail out to one of the little islands for a day of picnicking and snorkelling, swimming and snoozing on some of the most pristine beaches in the world. Or maybe you’d quite like to simply lounge beside the swimming pool, being tended to by the amazing staff of the villa that is finely attuned to that of a five-star luxury retreat – with daily housekeeping, a house cook and concierge service, a gardener and a handyman at the ready.
After a languid afternoon of feasting around the tables, you’ll head down to the beach for a gentle amble through the warm waters. The sunset transforms the colours of the landscape as you saunter back to your own ancient ship on the mountain. Overlooking all of the spectacular sights as the day turns to night, the holiday games ensue and that raring rockstar spirit comes to life. You’re with your favourite people, in one of the most remarkable seaside locations, cocooned in Villa Cambier’s state-of-the-art walls, as barrels of bliss blend in with the atmosphere of the evening.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie