Neilson x The Ravenala Attitude, Balaclava

If you're looking for barefoot luxury, look no further than the Ravenala Attitude, a family-friendly hotel on the sheltered northwest coast of Mauritius. Now partnering with Neilson, you can enjoy an active family holiday, complete with Neilson-run activities and clubs for the kids.

Watersports & Activities for Families

Activities on offer at the Ravenala include tennis and pickleball, and there are e-bikes to borrow too. Down at the beach, you'll find the watersports centre, ready and waiting with an array of equipment. You can grab a kayak and paddle up the river that joins the ocean, right by the hotel. Or you can have an introduction to catamaran sailing, with one of their instructors - this bay is great for sailing, with a really good breeze picking up as you head further out. Closer to shore, the calm water is perfect for paddleboarding. You can also hop on a boat, and they'll take you out to the reef for snorkelling. 

Neilson-run Childcare

Neilson runs their childcare from the kids' club in the resort's gardens. In term time, they have childcare for children from 4 months to 5 years, and then in the school holidays, there is a choice of clubs for older children. Clubs are included for all but the youngest. If you have little ones, you will need to pay a supplement, but for that, you get quality childcare, with a ratio of one nanny to two children.

Family Accommodation & Great Food

One of the highlights of this hotel is the food. Unlike Neilson's European hotels, this one is all-inclusive - and that doesn't just mean endless buffets. There is a buffet, and on it you'll find a good variety of food, including an area specifically for children, complete with plastic tableware. However, you can also choose to eat at some of the 7 à la carte restaurants, and the food is fantastic.

The main accommodation option for families is a choice of family suites, set throughout the grounds, in low-level buildings. Each has a terrace or balcony, and plenty of space with a room for parents and two comfortable sofa beds for the kids. There is a door in between, but note that there is also an open 'window', so the rooms aren't completely separate.

We're delighted Neilson has chosen to add the Ravenala to their programme. We have personal experience of the hotel, and it's a great place for a family holiday.