Comfort-loving Crusoes will revel in the Maldives mood of barefoot sophistication
1,192 tiny sunlit coral islands scattered across the biggest and bluest natural aquarium imaginable. The islands are a diver’s paradise, with warm, crystal-clear lagoons fringed by pristine white-sand beaches.
To this add an intriguing culture and language, shaped by Arab, Indian and Sri Lankan influences and even by British ones too, so non Dhivehi speakers can relax!
When it comes to description, it’s hard to resist traditional lyrical metaphors about green and gold jewel scattered over velvet seas of sapphire blue. That’s exactly how this spectacular cluster of coral atolls appear when first seen from the air and yes, the sea really is that translucent blue seen in the photos.
The Maldives’ remoteness, with Sri Lanka, the nearest land 750 miles away, creates the sense of a world apart. Distance, time and lifestyle can seem like those of a community bypassed by a bigger brasher beyond.
Most established hotel resorts are located amid three atoll clusters nearest to the capital (Malé), whilst many newer ones are scattered on more distant atolls, reached by seaplane or scheduled local flight. Few of these palm edged and lagoon-encircled enclaves need more than minutes to stroll across. You’ll expend most of your energy on the resorts’ main raison d’etre – those fabulous watersports.
Huvafen Fushi
North Malé Atoll
Strictly for the self-indulgent
Reethi Raj
North Malé Atoll
World's most fashionable beach resort
Niyama
South Western Atoll
Bringing a new level of comfort and contemporary style to the Maldives
Dusit Thani
Baa Atoll
Secluded on the almost untouched Baa Atoll isle
Six Senses Laamu
Laamu Atoll
Eco-friendly yet luxurious guest experience
Shangri-La Villingili
Addu Atoll
Luxury in a natural yet boutique style environment
Soneva Fushi
Baa Atoll
A sophisticated yet dream-like setting
Soneva Gili
North Malé Atoll
Serene, intimate, understated, excellent
Kanuhura
Lhaviyani Atoll
Secret hideaway of barefoot luxury
Filitheyo
Faafu Atoll
A perfect hideaway for a relaxing holiday
Medhufushi
Meemu Atoll
A five star island resort
Constance Moofushi
South Ari Atoll
One of the top dive spots in the world
Constance Halaveli
North Ari Atoll
Peaceful elegance where guests can relax and regenerate
Taj Exotica
South Malé Atoll
A lagoon of luxury
Kurumba
North Malé Atoll
A popular choice of resort for couples and families alike
Lily Beach
Ari Atoll
The first luxury, truly All Inclusive five star resort in the Maldives
Lux Resort Maldives
South Ari Atoll
One of few family friendly properties in the Maldives
Baros
North Malé Atoll
A true hideaway retreat appealing especially to romantic escapist
Velassaru
South Malé Atoll
‘Luxury disrobed’ – secluded but not isolated
Kuredu
Lhaviyani Atoll
3.5 miles of sandy beaches
Meeru
North Malé Atoll
Simple and natural yet stylish and always popular
Vilamendhoo
South Ari Atoll
An air of relaxation and tranquillity
Centara Grand
South Ari Atoll
The perfect resort for families, divers and honeymooners alike
Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu
Baa Atoll
A tropical paradise is the only way to describe Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu
Coco Palm Bodu Hithi
North Malé Atoll
A paradise hideaway in an enchanting setting
W Maldives
North Ari Atoll
A cutting edge lifestyle experience
St. Regis
Dhaalu Atoll
Flawless service meets effortless luxury