Unusually this resort actively encourages guests to get out and about and get an authentic taste of island life through a range of "experiences" – perhaps enjoying a dawn fishing trip with a local fisherman in his wooden pirogue, Creole lessons under the trees or even a home-cooked dinner in a local home!

Zilwa is located in a tranquil protected bay on Mauritius's northernmost tip, close to the fishermen's village of Grand Gaube. As well as having four beaches and lovely views towards five offshore islands - Coin de Mire, Ile Plate, Ilôt Gabriel, Ile Ronde and Ile aux Serpents - Zilwa Attitude has its own two small private islands, Gran Zil and Ti Zil which lie just offshore; here you can have a 'Robinson Crusoe-style' lunch or perhaps enjoy a sunset massage on the island Spa! A beautiful view of the sloping iconic Coin de Mire island, viewed across the swimming pool on arrival, gives the resort a real “WOW” factor. Meanwhile, the bustle and swimming beaches of Grand Baie are a 20-minute drive away, making it ideally located for first time travellers to the island who want to do a bit of exploring.

Set in crescent-shaped buildings facing the sea, the resort’s 214 rooms can be accurately described as “rustic chic”, with rough-hewn walls, wax-coated cement floors and driftwood-inspired furniture, coconut fibre carpets - all made by local craftsmen - and the use of bright colours (the red, blue, yellow and green of the Mauritian flag featuring prominently giving a charmingly patriotic feel) All this combines to create a relaxed style, perfect for unwinding. Pink and purple “Dodo slip slops” make for a charming room giveaway for new guests! There is a nice blend of rooms for couples as well as families, so everyone should find something to suit. One thing to note is that the bathrooms are all equipped with showers only.

The hotel has five restaurants ranging from Chinese and Mauritian cuisine to a romantic beachside à la carte, and its 'Dine Around' experience allows guests to discover a choice of flavours from local Creole cuisine to International flavours and seafood grills. The main buffet restaurant has three different seating areas and is open for breakfast and dinner; the Restaurant de Plage for á la carte lunch and dinner; Gran Zil Barbecue for lunch; plus, there are two 'live cooking' restaurants for dinner. There is also a separate snack bar for light lunches and afternoon teas. Perhaps the highlight though is a simple buffet lunch on Gran Zil private island where drinks are served in ceramic mugs and octopus curry is ladled from traditional pots on the ground. The beach bar occupies a former fisherman's boat.

The choice of leisure facilities at Zilwa Attitude Mauritius includes three swimming pools (one with a children's section), tennis, beach volleyball, as well as water sports from snorkelling and kayaking to kite surfing. There's also the Spa, a kiddie's club and regular evening entertainment. In keeping with the Creole feel you may enjoy some of the authentic Mauritian activities to try at the hotel – perhaps a Creole lesson, or play a traditional Mauritian game called sapsiway, join a Creole cookery course or even learn to make lychee-infused rum!