Relaxation guaranteed: hotels with swimming pools in Saint-Gilles
When you think of holidays in Saint-Gilles les Bains, you think of white sand, a gentle lagoon and idle moments. With the hotels in the Exsel group, your holiday in Réunion can be spent right on the water, in a gentle interlude just a stone’s throw from the waves.
But above all, there’s that little luxury that changes everything: the swimming pool. Because even under the tropical sun, calm, temperate water, far from the sand and bustle, makes all the difference. Especially when it’s accessible from your room, surrounded by coconut palms, and ready to welcome you at any time.
1. The Exsel group: committed local accommodation
Exsel Authentic Hotels is a Réunion-based group, founded in 2012, which has a number of accommodation establishments on Réunion, including two in Saint-Gilles-les-Bains: the Exsel Ermitage and the Exsel Alamanda.
This local group doesn’t just welcome visitors: it embodies a true Reunionese art of living. Its establishments are designed to offer an immersive, warm and resolutely local experience. Local cuisine, local products… everything is done to ensure that your stay is a reflection of your identity, rather than a standardised experience.
The hotels embody the best value for money, modern comfort, Pei charm, and a real commitment as an eco-responsible Reunion hotel, with the Clef Verte (Green Key) label and, for some, the European Ecolabel.
And it’s more than just a label: it’s a comprehensive approach, from water management to staff training, including waste sorting, waste reduction and support for local businesses. Accommodation that makes sense, without compromising on pleasure.
2. Exsel Ermitage: an ideal heated swimming pool in winter Austral
Setting and services
Located near the Hermitage, a 10-minute walk from the beach, l’Ermitage offers a heated swimming pool in winter and two children’s pools.
- The place exudes calm: coconut trees, a relaxing atmosphere and a setting that immediately takes the pressure off. It’s the perfect place to relax after a day at the Hermitage Market.
Free hotel parking, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and family rooms available for up to 6 people.
- Space and comfort are the order of the day, whether you’re a couple or a family. The hotel also offers connecting rooms, very practical for large families or friends travelling together.
- Breakfast is included, with a generous buffet of local produce served by the pool: homemade jams, fresh Pei fruit, a variety of breads, local coffee… A great way to start the day, with your feet almost in the water.
- And for an aperitif? Le Calypso offers arranged rums, fruity cocktails and savoury snacks for late afternoon drinks under the filaos.
And you have access to the restaurants Le Grain de Sable and La Marmite du groupe just a stone’s throw away.
Relaxation and activities
With its secure, heated swimming pool, deckchairs and immediate proximity to the lagoon, Exsel Ermitage is ideal for a holiday in Réunion Island with the family, as a couple or with friends.
There are plenty of activities on offer:
- pedalo
- kayak
- stand up paddle
- snorkeling
- boat trip
And that’s not all… discover what else the town has to offer for your holiday in saint-gilles les bains.
3. Exsel Alamanda: tropical pool & Creole ambience
A refreshing setting in the city centre
Right in the centre of Saint-Gilles, a stone’s throw from the lagoon, the Alamanda offers a pool heated in winter in a lush garden.
- A little corner of paradise in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the seaside: ideal for alternating between shopping streets, lively beaches and relaxing in a swimming costume by the water.
70 cosy rooms, all air-conditioned and equipped with free WiFi, with terrace or balcony, for simple, elegant comfort.
- The décor plays the local card, with touches of wood, colourful hues and Reunionese details. The atmosphere is gentle, unpretentious but full of charm.
- Breakfast is included at the Le Grain de Sable restaurant, and there’s a relaxing day package with pool access, lunch and bar credit.
It’s a great way for locals and travellers to spend a whole day, swimming, enjoying Creole cuisine and fresh cocktails. All without having to be a hotel guest at night.
Additional activities and services
Le Grain de Sable serves Creole dishes, salads, burgers and curries.
The menu changes regularly, depending on the season and market produce. There are also vegetarian options and an excellent daily grilled fish.
- Activities around the hotel: towed buoy, paddle, kayak, snorkelling, diving or sport fishing.
- No need for a car: all these activities are accessible on foot, in 10 minutes or less. And the hotel staff can advise you.
The hotel has free parking, a bar, event facilities and a friendly, approachable atmosphere.
Events, seminars, birthdays: everything can be organised on site, in a relaxed but well-supervised atmosphere. With a Creole smile to boot.
4. Why choose an Exsel Group hotel?
Strategic location and guaranteed comfort
Both hotels are conveniently located in Saint-Gilles, close to the beach, shops and restaurants – perfect for a weekend in Saint-Gilles or a successful leisure break in Réunion. With free parking, free Wi-Fi, on-site restaurants and economical packages, you can be sure of a smooth, enjoyable stay.
And whatever your profile, whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple looking for romance, or a large family, Exsel hotels have something to suit you. All on a human scale, with a real sense of welcome.
What’s more, for moments of guaranteed relaxation, the Exsel hotels in Saint-Gilles offer day or morning relaxation packages to suit your every whim.
Book now by contacting reception.
5. Tips for optimum pool relaxation
It’s better to book and arrive early
Booking a hotel in Réunion online in advance means you can finalise your stay with peace of mind. And by arriving early, you can enjoy a sun lounger by the pool or the best spot by the lagoon, without the hustle and bustle.
Local tip: in the morning, the lagoon is clearer, quieter and often deserted. It’s the perfect time for a zen swim, before heading back to the hotel to relax.
Combine a swim with a day out
After a dip, try a local snack at the bar, or a kayak trip – all these activities around the hotel are available from the Exsel, for a complete seaside break.
Don’t forget to alternate rhythms: an active morning, a siesta by the pool, a ti punch on the terrace… You’re not here to tick boxes, but to breathe at your own pace.
Conclusion: relaxation and authenticity with Exsel
With the Exsel Ermitage and the Exsel Alamanda, the best hotels in Saint-Gilles les Bains are built around a clear offer: hotel with swimming pool in Saint-Gilles Réunion, family hotel, modern comfort, Creole atmosphere, ideal location, practical services, local involvement. For a guaranteed moment of relaxation, you now know where to put down your suitcases.
Looking for freshness, flavour and relaxation? No need to go far.
Exsel Hôtels is there.
