Villa Anakao

Villa Anakao is a compact guesthouse on Royal Road in Trou aux Biches on Mauritius's sheltered northwest coast. The famous Trou aux Biches public beach—a half-kilometre arc of powder sand fronting one of the island's best-protected lagoons—is within a five-minute walk. Grand Baie, the island's main tourist hub with restaurants, shopping, and nightlife, lies approximately four kilometres to the south. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport is roughly 50 kilometres away, about an hour by taxi.

The property is family-run and consists of a small number of self-contained bungalow-style rooms and studio apartments arranged around a modest tropical garden with a plunge pool. The architecture is simple Creole vernacular: rendered walls in warm ochre and terracotta, pitched roofs with wide overhangs, and shuttered windows designed to catch the trade-wind breeze. The atmosphere is domestic and quiet rather than resort-like.

Rooms are simply furnished but clean, with air conditioning, ceiling fans, private bathrooms, and either terrace or garden access. Studio apartments include a kitchenette for light self-catering. Breakfast can be arranged on request and typically features tropical fruit, fresh bread, and Creole accompaniments prepared by the owners. Home-cooked Mauritian dinners are available on advance request, covering dishes such as mine frit, dholl puri, and freshly caught fish.

The pool, though small, functions as the social gathering point of the property. Owners are knowledgeable about local beaches, independent restaurants, and off-the-beaten-track excursions, and can arrange taxis, bicycle hire, and snorkelling gear. The location suits independent travellers who prefer exploring at their own pace over resort perimeters. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.