Newly launched hotel brand SALT of Palmar opens in Mauritius

The newly launched hotel brand SALT has opened the doors to its first resort, the 59-room SALT of Palmar on the east coast of Mauritius. Conceived with sustainability and connection to local community front of mind, it is a collaboration between award-winning Mauritian architect Jean-Francois Adam of JFA Architects and London-based French artist Camille Walala, whose vivid murals adorn buildings across the globe. It's the latter's first foray into hotels.

Both the design of the hotel and its offerings are very much of Mauritian culture. In design terms that involved investing in an existing geometric, riad-like building on the fringe of Palmar Beach and repurposing it, taking advantage of light and views while protecting the natural landscape.

"Everything about the hotel is designed to bring people together," says Adam. "From the communal tables in the bakery, restaurant and beach bar, to Mauritius' first roof-top bar and the inviting spaces in the SALT Equilibrium spa, it is all about gathering and sharing stories of travels and enjoyment of this incredible location."

Within that, there are authentic touches such as ceramics made by a local artist and rattan chairs created by local weavers. Guests can reach beyond the material to connect with the makers, via a Skill Swap program, exchanging their time and talent with local producers, designers and artisans such as fisherman, potters and basket weavers.

With resort chefs who are members of Slow Food International and produce coming from the SALT hydroponic farm as well as local bio-farms, there's a great culinary story being told as well.

Rates start from $US200 a double room a night on a bed and breakfast basis. See saltresorts.com