Set against the backdrop of Mauritius’s west coast, where the Indian Ocean meets volcanic cliffs and sugarcane fields, Legend Hill Resort & Spa is more than just a five-star property—it is a living, breathing tribute to the island’s soul.
Leading the vision is Eva Naidu, a Franco-Mauritian hotelier whose journey from government projects to boutique hotel general manager is as inspiring as it is intuitive.
With a background in European Law and international relations, Eva’s pivot to hospitality was born of passion and precision. At Legend Hill, every detail—from the linen on the beds to the scent in the air—has been curated with intention. It is a resort that fuses elegance with emotion, rooted in local culture, but refined in its global outlook.
We spoke with Eva ahead of Legend Hill’s grand opening to learn more about her transition into hotel management, her philosophy on luxury, and how she’s crafting an experience that’s as authentic as it is unforgettable.
What inspired you to pursue a career in hotel management?
I’ve been creating “hotels” since I was little—turning our living room into restaurants, designing menus, and setting up fantasy check-in desks. That playfulness eventually became purpose. As I grew older, I came to understand how deeply hospitality influences how people experience a place.
It’s not just about a bed or a view—it’s about creating an atmosphere, a story, a memory. Hotel management allows me to combine logistics, design, leadership, and empathy. It’s where creativity meets business.
With Legend Hill, I’ve had the rare chance to shape not just a hotel, but an experience grounded in Mauritian authenticity. From collaborating with artists like Daphné Dohmun to championing farm-to-table cuisine, everything we do is part of a wider story—one that honours the island’s heritage while speaking to the modern traveller.
How do you balance emerging trends and evolving guests’ preferences?
With a mix of listening, adapting, and, at times, gently leading.
Guests today—especially in the luxury segment—want more than glamour. They want meaning. That’s why at Legend Hill, we blend timeless elements like privacy, impeccable service, and refined interiors with modern, experience-led concepts.
We’ve introduced unique touches such as in-villa chef dinners, natural textile beachwear in our boutique, and curated local gifting. We host Teppanyaki experiences on penthouse terraces, and we train our team—not just to serve, but to listen with empathy and anticipate what’s unspoken.
True luxury lies in the details, and often, the real trend is not a thing—it’s a feeling: the feeling of being understood.
Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently?
Ask me again in six months—after our grand opening—and I’ll probably have a few “what was I thinking?” moments to laugh about!
So far, the only thing I might have done differently is delegate sooner. When something is deeply personal, like Legend Hill is to me, it’s hard not to want to be involved in everything—from the wine list to the Signature Scent.
But trusting the incredible Mauritian team I’ve built has been a revelation. Their expertise, dedication, and creativity have brought the resort to life in ways I couldn’t have imagined alone. Every decision—even the difficult ones—has contributed to a property that’s luxurious, soulful, and genuinely unique.
What defines your management style?
Empathy, intuition, and drive.
I believe in leading through empowerment, not micromanagement. My aim is to create a culture where ideas are welcomed, creativity is encouraged, and people feel proud of what they do.
I’m extremely detail-oriented—whether it’s the playlist at sunset, the fold of a napkin, or the language of a welcome note, I believe every detail speaks. And I like to think that as a female GM, I bring a balance of high standards and emotional intelligence—exigence and benevolence, side by side.
Ultimately, I want every member of the team to feel valued, inspired, and supported. Because when the team feels good, the guest feels great.
What are your strategic goals and vision for the hotel?
Mauritius is evolving. There’s space now for a new kind of luxury—one that’s less about five-star clichés and more about five-sense experiences.
My vision for Legend Hill is to create a resort that feels alive. A place where the island’s rhythm is present in the food, the art, the conversations, and the design. We are not a “bubble”—we are a bridge between guests and the community.
We are open to non-residents, we partner with local chefs and producers, and we host cultural events to ensure that Legend Hill becomes a hub, not just a hideaway. We want guests to leave feeling more connected—to themselves, to the island, and to something deeper than a standard luxury stay.
Ultimately, the goal is simple: to create a meaningful experience that stays with you, long after you leave.
What advice would you give to someone starting out?
Stay curious and stay humble.
This industry will challenge you—but it will also reward you in ways you never imagined. Learn from everyone: the room attendant, the sommelier, the guest who shares a story. Ask questions. Know your numbers, but don’t forget the people behind them.
Start on the floor. It will give you the empathy and insight you need to lead with heart later on. And always remember—you’re not just shaping stays, you’re shaping memories. That’s an extraordinary privilege.
Oh, and one more thing—never underestimate the power of good lighting, strong coffee, and a team that feels like family. It’s those small things that make a big difference.