Salt Of Palmar

I had the privilege of staying at Salt of Palmar in Mauritius from June 4th to 23rd, and it was far more than just a holiday—it was a deeply healing, soul-nourishing experience that I’ll carry with me for a long time. I came seeking rest, stillness, and mental recovery, and Salt delivered that and more. From the moment I arrived, I knew this place was special. The hotel has a very personal and intentional approach to every guest. It’s designed with mindfulness in mind—no TVs anywhere on the property, which I found to be such a rare and valuable detail. It invites you to be present, slow down, and truly reconnect with yourself. Salt of Palmar is very wellness and yoga-oriented, offering a variety of mindful activities, including yoga sessions and meditations. These experiences are beautifully integrated into the overall atmosphere of calm and presence. The hotel gently encourages a lifestyle of balance and peace, without ever feeling forced. The center of the hotel is a lush garden oasis, with a stunning swimming pool surrounded by greenery so rich and vibrant it feels like something out of ancient times—reminiscent of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. It’s peaceful, luxurious, and utterly calming, a perfect space to relax with a book or simply enjoy the breeze. My room was nothing short of magical. I woke up every morning to breathtaking sunrises—the kind that feel like you’re being gently awakened by the sun god himself. The soft light, the sound of waves crashing on the shore, and the fresh sea breeze created a movie-like scene every single morning. It was one of the most naturally beautiful and calming experiences I’ve ever had. The spa at Salt is exceptional. I treated myself to six treatments, each one deeply restorative. The therapists are highly skilled and incredibly kind, and the environment is a sanctuary of calm and care. I want to express my deepest gratitude to the entire service team, especially those in the restaurant. Traveling solo can sometimes feel isolating, but here, I felt embraced with warmth and kindness. Every meal was met with a genuine smile and thoughtful service. I’m truly grateful to each and every one of them—you made me feel seen, safe, and valued. A very special thank you to Chef Shiva, who is not only an extraordinary chef but an extraordinary human being. His food is from another planet—rich with creativity, flavor, and care. I had the pleasure of enjoying two fine dining experiences during my stay, both of which were unforgettable. His attention to detail and ability to make even a solo dining experience feel intimate and luxurious is something I’ll never forget. I’d also like to thank Rishi, the reception manager, whose warmth, attentiveness, and leadership are truly exceptional. He sets a beautiful tone for the hotel and clearly leads by example. His presence made a big difference in my stay. Salt of Palmar is so much more than just a place to stay—it’s a sanctuary for body and soul, and a rare kind of retreat where everything is curated with mindfulness, soulfulness, and purpose. It’s a place for those who want a different kind of 5-star experience—one rooted in authenticity, peace, and inner nourishment. To the entire Salt of Palmar team—thank you from the bottom of my heart. You gave me more than rest—you gave me clarity, peace, and joy. --- Would you like this turned into a version for TripAdvisor, Google, or Booking.com? I can make it punchy while keeping the heart of it.

Amazing hotel that sits right on the beach. Beautiful room, amazing pool and brilliant staff. A special mention must go to Rajeesh and the other chefs who looked after me (celiac) and my partner (dairy intolerant) brilliantly. Nothing was too much trouble and they made our holiday feel extra special.

Incredible hotel with amazing staff. Everyone was so helpful and accommodating, and they assisted us with things like booking excursions and a personal guide. The food at the hotel is of the highest quality!

SALT of Palmar is not just a hotel — it’s a transformative experience. It’s a rare kind of place where hospitality transcends comfort, where you don’t just check in but plug in — into a world of human connection, authenticity, and soul. SALT is not a getaway; it’s an awakening. From the moment you arrive, you understand that this is no ordinary resort. Yes, it is beautifully set on the serene shores of Belle Mare, kissed by clear turquoise waters and surrounded by raw, vibrant nature. But what truly sets SALT apart is not its architecture or design — as striking as they are — it is its people. The staff are not simply polite or efficient; they are real, warm, engaged human beings who care. They carry the essence of Mauritian hospitality with such grace and generosity that, for those of us accustomed to the often mechanical service standards of Western hotels, it feels almost surreal. SALT doesn’t sell luxury; it delivers meaning. And that makes all the difference. Arrival Like No Other From the very beginning, the tone was set by the unforgettable welcome from Rishi and Hanshi — two incredibly charismatic, well-mannered, and, above all, genuinely friendly members of the SALT family. Their energy was magnetic; not the kind of rehearsed hospitality we’ve grown used to, but something far more authentic. While we were greeted with what can only be described as nectar from heaven — a refreshing pineapple-based drink that somehow captured the spirit of the island — our luggage simply disappeared into caring hands. The check-in process? Practically invisible. In fact, there is no reception desk at all. You’re welcomed in a beautiful open room, alive with vibrant colours and bold shapes, where nature and design blend effortlessly. It feels less like a hotel lobby and more like stepping into the heart of a home — one where you’re not just expected, but truly wanted. Hanshi, a beautiful, soft-spoken, and extremely cordial lady, took us on a brief tour of the facilities — sharing each space with quiet pride and grace. From that first interaction to every morning after, she was a ray of sunshine, always greeting us with a smile and the gentle question: “How was your evening?” It was such a simple gesture, but one that made us feel remembered, cared for, and truly seen. After that warm and seamless welcome, you’re handed your room key — not a cold, plastic rectangle, but a beautifully crafted wooden card, a small yet meaningful detail that sets the tone for everything else. Before you even step into your room, you’re guided through an exploratory tour of the premises. And that’s when it really hits you. The pool glistens under the sun like liquid glass. The social areas are thoughtfully designed to encourage connection without ever feeling intrusive. Every corner — from the vibrant bars to the soulfully curated restaurants — bursts with character and intention. Your eyes struggle to take it all in. It’s not opulent in the traditional sense, but it is flawless in its balance of design, nature, and intimacy. The entire place feels like an exclusive, boutique villa — but one that’s open-hearted, never pretentious. A sanctuary built not to impress, but to inspire. The Rooms — Simplicity and Soul The rooms at SALT are a masterclass in minimalism — and we mean that in the most complimentary way. Clean, modern, and thoughtfully designed, they strike a perfect balance between simplicity and soul. Every line, texture, and fixture feels intentional, with beautiful yet functional amenities that reflect the hotel’s overall philosophy of mindful living. Natural light floods the space, creating a calm, welcoming atmosphere that invites you to breathe a little deeper and move a little slower. And then — the bed. It’s not an exaggeration to say it felt like sleeping in the clouds. The kind of comfort that erases all tension the moment you lie down, making it genuinely difficult to get up the next morning. Another detail that deserves applause: the toilet seats. SALT has opted for Japanese-style bidet seats — an uncommon but deeply appreciated luxury, especially for those of us who fell in love with this feature while traveling through Japan. It’s one of those thoughtful touches that quietly says, we care about your comfort — even in the smallest of ways. Midway through our stay, we were surprised with an upgrade — from a Poolside View to an Ocean View room. And let me tell you: waking up to the sight of the Indian Ocean right outside your window is something that leaves you completely breathless. The horizon melts into soft blues, the breeze drifts gently in, and for a moment, time stands still. It’s not just a view; it’s a feeling. One that stays with you long after you’ve left. The Good Kitchen — Food for the Heart, Food for the Spirit Dining at SALT is not just nourishment — it’s part of the journey. The Good Kitchen, run by the godlike Chef Shiva and his remarkable team, is a temple of taste, creativity, and sincerity. From traditional Mauritian dishes to a fusion of international flavours, every plate carries a touch of the island — vibrant, thoughtful, alive. It’s not about over-the-top luxury or pretentious presentations. It’s about authenticity, balance, and soul. What makes it even more special is how the food is sourced. Every ingredient is locally grown or produced, carefully selected from sustainable Mauritian farms and suppliers. It’s a commitment not just to freshness, but to the land, the people, and the island’s future. There’s a genuine respect for seasonality, zero-waste principles, and the idea that food should be as kind to the planet as it is to your body. And mornings? Mornings at SALT are nothing short of magical. As the first rays of the Mauritian sunrise pour gently across the property, you’re welcomed into a breakfast experience that is both luxurious and deeply personal. Yanik, with his contagious warmth and energy, works alongside Chef Shiva to offer a spread that’s as elegant as it is nourishing. Freshly baked French-style pastries, homemade breads, gluten-free options, and an array of natural jams and freshly made peanut butter await you — all crafted in-house, with love. And this is just the beginning. A generous à la carte breakfast menu follows, featuring beautifully plated dishes that change with the rhythm of the season. Every morning feels like a gift — a ritual of light, flavour, and calm that prepares you not just for the day ahead, but for a deeper connection to yourself and your surroundings. We also shared two unforgettable culinary moments: an intimate dinner at the recently inaugurated Tek-Tek restaurant — where Chef Shiva and his apprentice Karen prepared a menu celebrating the sea’s offerings — and a 1-on-1 curry masterclass led by Shiva himself, using no shortcuts and no pastes, just pure ancestral knowledge and technique. Both are highly recommended experiences for anyone staying at SALT. The restaurant, the bars, and the poolside areas are attended by what can only be described as a community — an extraordinary team of waiters and bartenders who work together like a well-synchronized orchestra of kindness, care, and joy. This isn’t “staff” in the usual sense. This is a family. A family that somehow knew all our names, our room, and even the little details we liked most. It genuinely started to feel as if they could read minds — anticipating our needs before we even voiced them, always with a smile, always with warmth. I am eternally grateful to all of you — Bhishou, Bhavish, Rajiv, Reena, Shib, Dev, Med, Naresh, Suman, Vish, Sunil, Fayaz, Devin, Raju, Bhool, Yanik, Kamakshi, and Daram. All I can say is that I truly cherish the connections made with each and every one of you. The SALT Spa — Healing, Inside and Out Tucked into a peaceful corner of the property, the SALT Spa is more than just a wellness facility — it’s a quiet temple of relaxation, balance, and care. As an oral surgeon, my daily routine is physically demanding, often leaving my back and calves aching. I came to SALT not just to unwind, but to heal. That healing began with a full-body massage by Sarah, whose hands are truly magical. Her presence is calming, her skill unmatched. She didn’t just relieve tension — she rebalanced something deeper. On our final day — as we faced the sadness of leaving this oasis — I treated myself to a one-hour pedicure session, performed by the lovely Ritika. Somewhere between her gentle care and strong, precise hands, I drifted into what I can only describe as a deep, peaceful sleep coma. My body clearly needed it, and it thanked me. Both Sarah and Ritika seem truly blessed by the gods — not only for their skilled hands, but for their calming presence, soft-spoken voices, and a natural ability to heal with strength and grace. The spa itself is a sensory retreat — filled with an indescribable freshness carried in the air by the myriad of creams, oils, salts, and essential blends from SALT’s own line of wellness products, many of which are available to take home. You don’t just step into this spa — you exhale into it. A Soul That Shines Brighter Than the Sun — Rishi Mahadoo Among the many remarkable individuals who made our time at SALT unforgettable, one person deserves a chapter of his own: Rishi Mahadoo. Rishi welcomed us the moment we arrived, and it became immediately clear — he is not your typical hotel manager. In truth, I dare to say he’s not a typical human being at all. His enthusiasm, his radiant charisma, and his profoundly kind soul are the kind of qualities you only hear about in mythological tales. Rishi is the living embodiment of hospitality elevated to an art form — and to a calling. He doesn’t just ensure that your stay at SALT is seamless and extraordinary — he goes far beyond. With a quiet determination and heartfelt dedication, Rishi will move mountains (and sometimes the entire island) to create the perfect experience for you and your companions. Whether you’re simply looking to relax or longing to dive deeper into the culture, nature, and spirit of Mauritius, Rishi is the one who makes it all happen — reliably, effortlessly, and always with a smile. He puts his heart and soul into everything. From organizing island adventures to making sure every moment at SALT feels just right, Rishi doesn’t work for the guests — he works with them, alongside them, and always with genuine care. And I can say this as a fact: my wife and I made a true friendship with Rishi — the kind of bond you don’t expect to find on a holiday, but one we will always hold close to our hearts. A Honeymoon Ten Years in the Making We chose SALT for a very personal reason. My wife and I got married ten years ago. Life, as it often does, moved fast — and although we’ve travelled many times since, we never quite managed to have the honeymoon we had always dreamed of. We always longed for that one perfect trip: to somewhere peaceful, surrounded by nature, kissed by clear waters — a place where we could truly disconnect from the world and reconnect with ourselves. Coming from South America, raised on the coast, our standards for beaches and ocean views are set impossibly high. And for years, we carried those expectations like a quiet wish. We were wrong about what we needed. And SALT was everything we didn’t even know we were searching for. This was not just the honeymoon we missed a decade ago. It was something deeper, richer — a reminder of what really matters. The slow mornings. The kindness of strangers who become friends. The beauty of simplicity. The feeling of belonging far from home. SALT gave us that. Gave me that. And it will forever hold a place in our hearts — not just as a beautiful escape, but as a place where something shifted, something opened. We didn’t just stay at a hotel. We lived something spiritual.