Just off the north east coast of Mauritius in the lagoon known as Roches Noires, a simple rock platform lies 100 metres off the coastline, accessed only by a wooden pontoon causeway.

Encircled by shady casuarina trees, L’ilot is the setting for a remarkable luxury villa on its own private island. Situated on a sandbed, the huge 300 sq metre house faces north west: perfectly positioned for sunsets, and with its back to the prevailing wind. For fishermen, rock pool paddlers and water babes, the setting is idyllic. To the east, a small jetty leads to deeper waters for diving and swimming, while the front of the house gives access to a secret hidden bathing pool between L’ilot and another couple of nearby islets.

The luxury private villa

The house itself is vast and light, built of stone and wood with a deep wraparound verandah. There are three double bedrooms, two with ensuite bathrooms, plus an extra room with bunk beds and a family bathroom. A super-sized living room looks out to sea and there’s a fully equipped kitchen should you wish to self-cater, though a full maid and cooking service is offered too.

If you can bear to tear yourself away, Roches Noires is only 15km from the cosmopolitan resort of Grand Bay, with its numerous restaurants, cafes, shops, nightclubs and supermarkets. Further down the east coast are the luxury golf clubs, which lure thousands of professional and amateur golfers to these shores every year. But best of all, despite all the attractions of Mauritius being so close at hand, you’ve still got your own private island to return to whenever peace and relaxation calls.

To find out more, visit lilot.biz.

Book your next flight with Air Mauritius, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest news.

Photos: L’ilot