Hôtel 20 Degrés Sud - Relais & Châteaux

Rats in restaurant On arrival the hotel is really beautiful - a small oasis tucked away with gorgeous colonial style. The reception staff were really lovely and made us feel welcome. The room was really nice - but there were a few things we noticed (which we let slide at the start) - massive dirty lipstick mark on one of our water glasses, filthy lampshades above the bathroom sinks, bed linen that didn’t feel particularly fresh and the robes as well had a slight greyish colour rather than bright white which they were meant to be. These were all minor things at the start which we didn’t even mention to each other but did notice. We then had our first night at the cocktail bar where our drink was served by the lovely barman (very polite and smily) - as we were drinking we saw a huge rat run across the terrace - we decided it was an island and maybe this is normal (although we really weren’t happy about it). We then were dining within the restaurant and again a huge rat was running towards the table. For us, this is not ok. We asked to move tables as we saw a rat and the waiters barely acknowledged it - didn’t offer any apology and then proceeded to avoid our table for the rest of the night. We informed the manager the next day who assured us he was aware and the rat had been caught, and to “give it a chance”. We weren’t offered so much as a complimentary drink. After dining in the restaurant again the second night and again seeing a rat - for us it was time to check out. Not only is it unpleasant seeing rodents running around while eating but I would say it’s a hygiene issue and makes me question the cleanliness of the kitchen and the safety of the food. The only concession we were offered was to not pay for the remaining nights that we would not be staying for. Really disappointing. On hindsight some things we would add about the whole experience: - Not a 5 star in terms of food, service or cleanliness - Staff really hit and miss - some very friendly some really rude and unhelpful - Rooms didn’t feel clean - Food was average - nothing felt fresh including breakfast - Quite stingey with water - water not replaced within our room (had to ask for it) We are now staying at a different hotel and haven’t seen one rat, so don’t think this is “just an island thing” as the manager stated. The service and food are also worlds apart which has really solidified that our review of 20 degres sud as completely justified - not a 5 star experience whatsoever.

We have just returned from Mauritius, and the most relaxing holiday we’ve had for years. This is largely thanks to the superb staff and ambience of the Hotel 20 Degres Sud in Grand Baie. During our stay we enjoyed the excellent food and service at the hotel’s l’Explorateur restaurant. The hotel is very well located, smart, and efficiently managed, with very pleasant, helpful staff. Thanks are also due to the General Manager, M. Lindsey Thomen for making our stay so special.

We went for diner at 7:00 pm. First we drank some cocktails and they served our drinks with some canapé’s, it was really nice. And after we went for our dinner. Everything was perfect, food really delicious. We asked for one special salad and chef sent an exquisite one. And Salim our waiter he was really professional and kind. Thank you for a wonderful evening. Bilal-Bhavna

A cosy hideaway next to the sea with great views of Grand Baie, nice restaurant food and amazingly welcoming and accommodating staff (they even made me special Mauritian dishes to try in the evenings). A boutique getaway with a great location. Special thanks to Hugo, Vic, Naheem and many of the staff (sorry - didn't take a not of all names)!

We loved our stay at the 20 Degrés Sud. The staff is absolutely five stars (special regards to Denis and Ashfaaq) having contributed to a memorable holiday. The food is world class and in addition the premium location makes it the perfect place to relax and enjoy. Highly recommended and we cannot wait to be back.

Rats in restaurant On arrival the hotel is really beautiful - a small oasis tucked away with gorgeous colonial style. The reception staff were really lovely and made us feel welcome. The room was really nice - but there were a few things we noticed (which we let slide at the start) - massive dirty lipstick mark on one of our water glasses, filthy lampshades above the bathroom sinks, bed linen that didn’t feel particularly fresh and the robes as well had a slight greyish colour rather than bright white which they were meant to be. These were all minor things at the start which we didn’t even mention to each other but did notice. We then had our first night at the cocktail bar where our drink was served by the lovely barman (very polite and smily) - as we were drinking we saw a huge rat run across the terrace - we decided it was an island and maybe this is normal (although we really weren’t happy about it). We then were dining within the restaurant and again a huge rat was running towards the table. For us, this is not ok. We asked to move tables as we saw a rat and the waiters barely acknowledged it - didn’t offer any apology and then proceeded to avoid our table for the rest of the night. We informed the manager the next day who assured us he was aware and the rat had been caught, and to “give it a chance”. We weren’t offered so much as a complimentary drink. After dining in the restaurant again the second night and again seeing a rat - for us it was time to check out. Not only is it unpleasant seeing rodents running around while eating but I would say it’s a hygiene issue and makes me question the cleanliness of the kitchen and the safety of the food. The only concession we were offered was to not pay for the remaining nights that we would not be staying for. Really disappointing. On hindsight some things we would add about the whole experience: - Not a 5 star in terms of food, service or cleanliness - Staff really hit and miss - some very friendly some really rude and unhelpful - Rooms didn’t feel clean - Food was average - nothing felt fresh including breakfast We are now staying at a different hotel and haven’t seen one rat, so don’t think this is “just an island thing” as the manager stated. The service and food are also worlds apart which has really solidified that our review of 20 degres sud as completely justified - not a 5 star experience whatsoever.

Fantastic boutique hotel - details spot on and a charming dining/cocktail experience. The beach area is quite small but staff fantastic and the hotel is also very well located in case you need anything nearby. Just 5* and so worth it. Thank you all!

On arrival I was a little disappointed. The rooms are small. When I got my bearings I realised that everything I needed was in the room. It was clean and Manisha looked after us wonderfully. The staff in general were amazing. Edil, Dennis and Zhaarfir were absolutely the best. There were some staff that were less attentive and you often waited quite a while for service. There is a bar on the beach but it is not always open or staffed. There are definitely not enough sun beds. Towards the end of our holiday some people took to putting towels on the beds first thing. I believe the staff should remove those towels as often the people only turned up late afternoon. It took me a while to get my head round the cost of the evening meal. Although it generally worked I did not expect to spend my holiday having to calculate the cost of my meal. The food was amazing and if you didnt enjoy something they always offered an alternative. Our departure was a late one and you need to vacate your room by 11.30am. There is a departure room for storing your luggage and shower facilities. I think it would be better to be given a time slot for using this as my husband just got in the shower when the staff told us someone else needed the room as they were leaving in half an hour. This is a room where people come and go freely so privacy is difficult. My main problem was breakfast. The choice was fabulous and the food again delicious. However, at 7am the bread and pastries are brought out. Fortunately we are early risers so got to the pastries before the birds! The pastries are uncovered and the birds feast on them. Nibbling them, walking on them and sitting on the light above them so the possibilty of pooping on them!! I understand that we are on an island with beautiful birds but the food should be protected. I do hope the hotel reads this review and addresses this as there were many people who complained about this.

What a fantastic place this is I’m sat on my balcony writing this review All I can say is faultless Manisha helping us with our room - what a lovely lady. The reception staff were brilliant, helpful at all times. The lads sailing us over the bay superb The guys on the bar again brilliant Lastly but not least the food and food service staff, these people are absolutely fantastic. The food at this hotel is as good as anything we have had, and we have been fortunate where we have eaten around the world. I highly recommend the lady lisbeth boat for an off shore dining experience. I will recommend this place to anyone and I think the 1980’s hit by the Kane Gang “ the closest thing to heaven “ sums 20 Degres Sud up perfectly.