Virginie Efira: “Here, everything remains on a human scale, intimate, with truly authentic relationships”

Heritage Le Telfair recently had the pleasure of hosting Franco-Belgian actress Virginie Efira and her partner, Niels Schneider, who returned once again to celebrate the festive season in this tranquil and rejuvenating setting. Drawn to the hotel’s unique combination of refinement and sustainability, they were charmed by the personal attention of the staff and the bespoke experiences offered. Virginie Efira particularly praised the hotel’s commitment to sustainability and its elegant environment, which blends relaxation with environmental respect. Amid the festive atmosphere of our 5-star hotel during the New Year’s celebration, the couple kindly granted us an exclusive interview.

You’ve chosen Mauritius once again as your preferred holiday destination, and Heritage Resorts as your base. Why this choice?

Virginie Efira  in mauritius

Niels Schneider: Virginie has known Mauritius long before me. She’s been coming here for over fifteen years. I discovered it four years ago. Initially, we were searching for a warm destination, an island with turquoise waters. Over the years, we kept coming back, and I became really fond of Mauritius — its landscapes and, above all, its people, who are extraordinarily kind. We discovered Heritage Le Telfair, and through this discovery, we also learnt about your Now For Tomorrow programme and all that you do for environmental protection and sustainable development. It’s very appealing to be in such a beautiful hotel that also cares deeply about nature conservation.

Virginie Efira: Yes, I was determined to introduce Mauritius to Niels. He’s right; I was already very familiar with this destination before we met. I came here in all sorts of ways: alone, to explore and discover many things; and also with my daughter when she was young, because the island is such an easy, joyful, and exotic place. Mauritius appeals to all the senses — with its scents, colours, and landscapes… It leaves a deep impression. Once you’ve experienced it, you want to come back. We discovered it together, and we discovered it here at Heritage Le Telfair, where everything is designed to offer a complete experience. Beyond the architectural and natural beauty, there’s a human warmth and spirit that infuse this place. It feels like being at someone’s home, with special attention to every detail. You never feel like just another guest in a large impersonal complex. Everything here remains on a human scale, intimate, with genuine, authentic relationships.

Virginie, you film almost two to three films a year, in roles ranging from dramatic to comedic to romantic. You excel in auteur cinema, as well as popular cinema. You’re both a star and unclassifiable… Do certain encounters influence your artistic choices?

Virginie Efira: These past two years, I’ve filmed a bit less, but it’s true that I do a lot of films. It’s always a mix of luck and hard work. In fact, in an interview, Jacques Brel once said that luck is an exam for which you’re prepared. So, it’s a mix of both — luck, but also hard work, dreams, beliefs… a desire to do things. That way, when luck comes your way, you’re able to seize it and refine what you do.

Virginie Efira in mauritius hotels

Niels Schneider: I think meeting a director plays a huge part in deciding whether to accept a film. It’s about trying to realise your own dream, your own vision. As a viewer, when I watch a film or a series that I love, I almost feel like I want to meet the person behind it. The directors Virginie and I are drawn to are often those who bring a personal vision and a unique perspective on the world. On set, a great intimacy is formed, a connection that’s not always found in other professions. A film shoot is like life in fast-forward: intense and rich.

Niels, how would you describe your personal and artistic evolution over the years? Are there any roles that have particularly marked you?

Niels Schneider: As the years pass, I realise I enjoy acting more and more. The desire hasn’t diminished; in fact, it has grown. I’m very grateful for the opportunities I’ve had, and I’m acutely aware of the privilege that comes with this profession.

Virginie, what are the personal principles or markers that define and guide you, even in the face of life’s changes?

Virginie Efira in heritage resorts

Virginie Efira: What guides me is the constant search for meaning, whether it’s in a collective or personal project. This meaning evolves constantly, but as long as you act in line with this logic, you avoid the vague notions of success or failure. It’s not necessarily about achieving success but about a desire for authenticity and personal contribution.

Virginie, you will soon share the screen with Jodie Foster, one of your idols. Does this represent a true moment of recognition for you?

Virginie Efira: Oh, in fact, I’ve already had the incredible fortune of acting alongside Jodie Foster. She’s an actress I’ve admired immensely since my youth. I vividly remember The Silence of the Lambs — I must have been under sixteen at the time, and the film was restricted for children, but I managed to find a way to watch it. Jodie Foster, for me, is a Hollywood figure who truly stands out, with a unique femininity, a brilliant intelligence in her gaze, and a strong sense of integrity. She’s fascinating.

But the real story I want to share is that meeting someone you’ve admired so much, someone who has played a role in your own desire to make films, is exceptional. When I met her, initially we had cello lessons, did readings, and dined together. At that time, I didn’t want to see her as a star. I felt like she was almost a friend, someone you could talk to freely and easily. And, of course, the intelligence she’s credited with is indeed real. Then, when we did the film reading, I finally had the chance to watch her perform. I could watch her without her noticing. That was the moment when I took a step back and thought, “Wow, she’s right here, just two metres away from me.” That moment truly moved me.

As a traveller, what do you expect from your journeys?

Niels Schneider: Every journey is different. Sometimes it’s about adventure and discovering a new culture. Other times, it’s simply to relax. Film shoots are often exhausting, with intense schedules. Coming here allows us to slow down, recharge, and spend time together.

Virginie Efira: What I love here is that everyone can find their own space. We can be together and share moments, but also enjoy independent activities before coming together again. It’s a delicate balance.

Was there any action or encounter at Heritage Resorts that particularly stood out to you during your stay?

Virginie Efira  in Marine Education Center Mauritius

Niels Schneider: Yes, what you do through the Now For Tomorrow programme is truly remarkable. Your commitment to sustainable development, education, and inclusion is admirable.

Virginie Efira: It plays out on many levels. It’s about passing on information, showing, and opening up perspectives in this never-ending and complex work that drives progress. It’s also about considering the various economic realities of the country to help, support broader initiatives, all while maintaining an ecological and political awareness that you manage to convey so effectively. For instance, the Heritage Marine Education Centre really offers the opportunity to access all of this work, this richness, and become aware of our connection to something greater than ourselves.

More generally, I feel that you’re genuinely committed to making sure that each guest’s experience feels like being at home. You can sense that you are here on land that you know and love deeply.

Niels Schneider: Yes, there’s a real sincerity in your approach, a sincerity I don’t find elsewhere. There’s a true warmth in the welcome, something very precious. You feel it in every detail, and that’s what makes this place so unique.