Bernie Van Der Linde
My ‘best-value-for-money’ find in Mauritius, the Chill Pill Guest house
A major misconception about Mauritius is that it is only for the rich. This is not factual and far from the truth. Besides the many luxurious resorts, several mid-range hotels are offering excellent value for money due to their all-inclusive packages and many self-catering houses and B&B guest houses offering excellent alternatives for budget holidays.
If you’re craving pristine, soft-sandy beaches and have a tight budget, keep reading because I discovered the best alternative to a luxury 5-star hotel right on the edge of the ocean in Mauritius during my last trip. But before I continue, remember the best tip for keeping costs low on a tight budget is to travel during the low seasons.
For Mauritius, this means travelling from September to November and March to May. During this time, you can still negotiate good flight deals and accommodation prices.
Is Mauritius possible on a budget?
Mauritius is all about attractions, and although this may add up to extra costs, most of the best attractions in Mauritius are free. For example, you can snorkel the beautiful coral reefs, have a picnic on the public beaches, hike in the Black River Gorge National Park (there is a 50km hiking trail through dense forests), explore Chamarel and Rochester waterfalls, visit tea plantations and rum distilleries.
If you’ve read my previous blog, “Mauritius for first-time visitors”, you know that renting a scooter is an affordable, fun, and adventurous way to explore the island. Or, if you are even more adventurous, you can ride their public buses that connect to most of the main attractions. This option is extremely affordable; the only drawback is that the services end early in the evenings.
The Guest house, Chill Pill, Mauritius
This brings me to my most exciting discovery during my trip to Mauritius. On my morning walk about 2 km from Preskil Island Resort and Spa (you may also wish to read my review), I noticed a signboard with a very peculiar name, “Chill Pill Guest house”. Because I have a very curious personality, I immediately started imagining what a guest house would look like that can make me want to chill and being a travel buddy, my cell phone was ready to click away for new content that evening. That’s where today’s blog begins…
Where is Chill Pill guest house?
Chill Pill Guest House is in Mahebourg on the South coast of Mauritius. This guest house offers 13 different room options, ranging from pool views to ocean views, with or without balconies. There is also a two-bedroom villa ideal for a family with children. The guest house is unique because it has the most breathtaking rim-flow pool facing the ocean, and they offer their guests a BBQ facility with spectacular ocean views.
Who would enjoy this guest house?
This resort is ideal for single people, couples or families looking for a cosy, budget-friendly stay with an island-style vibe. It is also ideal for more mature couples looking for an unpretentious island escape in the most authentic part of the island. I was told by the manager, Nate, that the ocean-view bungalow is very popular amongst honeymooners (visit our Instagram page to see the magnificent views from the unit).
The rooms at Chill Pill guest house, Mauritius
All the rooms have air conditioning, either a patio or balcony, a flat screen TV, minibar, access to free Wi-Fi, and private bathroom.
Where is Chill Pill Guest House in Mauritius?
The Chill Pill Guest House is conveniently located in Mahebourg and within 10 minutes of the SSR airport, making it extremely convenient for arrivals and departures. The property is within a 9-minute walk from a sandy public beach.
What type of facilities are available at Chill Pill guest house?
The rim flow pool overlooks the ocean and is located within a few steps of all the rooms on the property and the BBQ area.
Are there dinning options available at Chill Pill guest house?
The resort offers breakfast in a cosy, island-style breakfast room with beautiful ocean views. There are many restaurants within walking distance, or you can buy groceries from Mahebourg for your stay to enjoy that magnificent BBQ area.
Good to know
- The guest house offers a free airport shuttle
- There is a cosy bar on the premises
- There is no direct beach access to the guest house.
- The rooms are furnished very basic.
Things to do in the vicinity of Chill Pill guest house in Mauritius
- A scooter rental agency is available within a few hundred meters of the guest house.
- Mahebourg has a lovely small local market and waterfront.
- Visit Blue Bay Marine Park.
What we most liked about the Chill Pill guest house
I loved the view from the breakfast restaurant and the incredible pool views. I found the management extremely helpful, friendly, and willing to assist guests with planning their day trips. I liked the quietness of the area and the laid-back feeling at the guest house.
Our verdict about Chill Pill guest house
Although I did not personally stay at the guest house and only conducted a site visit, I loved the views of the pool, the beautiful gardens and their relaxed island vibe. The management is very friendly and helpful. Considering their prices, I strongly doubt if you will find anything close to this in Mauritius that is better value for money and more beautiful.
Best Features
- The rim-flow pool with ocean views
- Rooms have fabulous ocean views
- Great location near the airport
- Free shuttle service to and from the airport
- Close to some of the best attractions in Mauritius
Best nearby attractions
- Blue Bay Marine Park, 3km
- Mahebourg Waterfront, 3km
- Tamarind Waterfalls, 37km
- Chamarel Waterfall, Coloured Earth and Curious Corner (Highly recommended day excursion) 50km
Value for money
This resort offers the best value for money. It is a super budget-friendly option for travellers who want to explore the rugged, authentic side of the island.
Our reviews are a true reflection of our experiences during our stay at the resort. This means we comply to strong ethical practices to ensure our reviews are fair and trustworthy. We only do reviews of hotels that we have personally visited.
