UPDATE: has undergone a complete transformation from a classic, colonial-style icon into an ultra-modern luxury resort (55$ million rebirth in 2017), recent 2024 refresh

Fabulous setting, good facilities and pleasant staff:

My family (my husband, our teenage son and I) returned to One&Only Le Saint Géran. And we did this eight years after our first stay. The lodging is wonderfully located on a private pensinsula. Whereas some details changed, the main things remained more or less the same.

Whilst we have had a warm welcome the last time, we were this time greeted with the question: “Do you have a voucher?” But fortunately this bad first impression was not typical for the whole stay.

We had once again one of the resort’s 148 Juniors Suites. We went for one with two Queen-size beds where a rollaway bed for our son was added. We were happy with our choice because of two reasons. First, these rooms are larger than the ones with a king-size bed. Second, the quality of the beds (probably old ones) are not suitable for sharing. Anyway, rooms generally have a good size and are well-appointed. Whereas last time we had faced the sea, this time we were on the lagoon’s side. I think that both directions are equal, but it is certainly important to be away from public spaces as the evening entertainment program may be quite loud.



We were on half board as probably most of guests, meaning you have your dinner at one restaurant (La Terrasse). There is a buffet every night but you can normally also choose from several served starters and entrées. Whereas we had not always been satisfied with the food quality and the size of portions (too large) eight years ago, we liked it better this time. Although we did not consider the offered as a culinary highlight. Being on a half board basis and considering that you do not always want to eat at the buffet restaurant, you receive a small credit. This gives you the  possibility to try out the resort’s other two restaurants.

We dined twice at Rasoi, an Indian restaurant, which was both times a wonderful experience – superb food and excellent service. On one occasion, we went to Prime, an upscale steak house, which was good but far from being exquisite. As far as the latter is concerned, we were at least able to get there a glass of Prosecco. It was expensive but not as exorbitantly priced as the champagne at this resort. As to the breakfast buffet, which is served at La Terrasse, there was a good selection. I was happy that the pastries which I disliked last time were fine.



With regard to the facilities of St Geran, it can be said that they are excellent. There are two beaches, a busier one by the sea, a quiet one by the lagoon. You do not have to rush in order to get sunbeds in the morning as there are more than enough of them. You find here a water sports center where you can – among other things – water ski all day (as the lagoon is quiet the whole day). Plus, there is a number of activities you can participate in (if there is a demand for it what does not always seems the case). We missed the offer of a guided hike what we had very much appreciated the last time. With respect to the fitness center, it is well-equipped although not very large. But there is also a mind/body pavilion and a lap pool. What really is a highlight at this resort, is the excellent live band (the same as eight years ago). They play almost every evening after dinner. Sometimes their repertoire is matched too much to the taste of elderly people but probably the regulars here belong to this age group.



In terms of  service, staff is usually eager to please you. Butler service was good and not too intrusive. At the restaurant reception, they were attentive and knew you by name. Unfortunately, we never had the chance to meet the manager personally, although we thought he was around. Last time, we had been welcomed by the manager upon arrival at the resort. 

Overall, St Geran is a recommended place to go when visiting Mauritius. It is not a new resort (as e.g. Four Seasons) Therefore, it does not offer a private plunge pool or similar fancy things. But it makes up for such shortcomings with a really gorgeous setting on a private peninsula. But in the time to come, it needs a remodeling in order to stay competitive.

Date of stay: October 2011