Set in a 25-acre private estate of lush tropical gardens and ruins, to its credit the Maritim still comes across as a cosy, friendly, relaxing and intimate place to be. This is no modern block strung in a row along miles of beach – rather you are cosseted within the walled grounds of the 18th century private estate which roams charmingly through tropical gardens, past romantic waterfalls and the river Citron, a 9 hole golf course, farms (including one for 200 year-old giant turtles), right down to some thick jungle partially covering the authentic historical Ruins of Balaclava (the ruins of the original French colony’s main arsenal and gunpowder store which achieved their ruined status by accidentally exploding in 1774!) – all of this flanked by the crystal clear, turquoise Indian Ocean. Nor does the beachfront give you 180° vistas up and down the coast – instead Turtle Bay is a secluded inlet which makes your location somehow feel more private and intimate.

Following its major refurbishment and upgrade in 2009, the Maritim’s 215 rooms are elegant and contemporary in style and offer lovely views from their private balcony or terrace - there are also plenty of interconnecting room options for families as well as more spacious Suites. The entry level rooms are the Premium Rooms (34 m²) which are elegantly decorated in natural tones; but if budget allows then the upgrade to the Privilege Rooms (40-44 m²) is a worthwhile one largely because of the lovely bathrooms (with stunning freestanding baths) which can be opened up to the bedroom through sliding doors making for a very attractive and more airy feeling choice. If you need more space, then the 58 m² Prestige Rooms with their larger lounge areas are an option or if you’re feeling even more flush then there are 18 suites to choose from starting at the elegant 92 m² Junior Suites and going right up to the 160 m² Family Villa with its 2 bedrooms, private garden and exclusive swimming pool.

The Maritim also offers a good choice of dining options – the main restaurant is Belle Vue, which as the name suggests enjoys lovely views over the ocean as you enjoy delicious buffets and watch the action in the open cooking stations. During the day, the Quarter Deck Bar is the perfect place for light snacks or ice cold cocktails at the swim up bar or whilst enjoying the great views over the bay from the deck. For a more intimate and romantic experience then a great choice is the La Marée beach restaurant where you can enjoy a delicious seafood barbeque right on the beach. But if you really want to spoil your other half then reserve a table at the stunning Chateau Mon Desir, the resort’s colonially styled gourmet restaurant stunningly integrated within the Balaclava Ruins slightly away from the main resort, where you can enjoy a romantic meal whilst soaking up the views over the Citron River and turquoise waters of Turtle Bay.

As mentioned earlier the Maritim’s location in Turtle Bay (named by 17th century French sailors on account of the huge population originally found here) is also the site of the island’s first marine reserve, so the opportunity is there to enjoy the underwater life by going glass bottom boating, snorkelling or diving. The area's calm waters are protected by the offshore coral reef making it an ideal setting for water sports if the stunning beach doesn’t attract you first – amongst the complimentary activities offered at the Maritim are water skiing, sailing, wind surfing, pedal boats and kayaking. Back on land there’s also plenty to do, including an air-conditioned fitness centre, golf on the resort’s simple 9-hole course, tennis and even archery – but a real highlight for many is that the Maritim also unusually boasts its own equestrian centre, so you have the chance to take an unforgettable horseback ride along the beach! Of course the hotel’s location virtually around the corner from both Grand Baie and Port Louis also means that it’s easy to pop out if you fancy doing a bit of shopping or exploring the markets and sights. And if all the hustle and bustle of town is too much for you, then afterwards head for Maritim’s Tropical Flower Spa for a pampering and soothing massage in the Spa’s truly blissful and tranquil surroundings!