The Hotel Guru
The 20 Best Luxury Hotels in the Maldives

The 20 Best Luxury Hotels in the Maldives

The Maldives does luxury and it does it very well. Hotels occupying picture perfect tropical islands, villas set above the water, some of the world's best spas, and added extras such as private yachts. The difficulty is knowing where to start when booking your break. To help you out, our hotel experts have compiled a hand-selected list of the best luxury hotels in the Maldives in which you will find something for everyone. From family-friendly resorts filled with activities to serene adult-only stays. Perhaps you are a design fanatic or a you need a spa to really make your holiday? Our Hotel Gurus have thought of it all! So why not browse through our collection of the best luxury hotels in the Maldives to start planning your next holiday?

For the best villas

Soneva Jani offers spectacular private villas (many come with rooftop water slides). Villas are huge with pale wood and natural interiors and private pools on the terrace. Every detail has been thought of from spa and dining to activities and relaxation. With faultless service - this hotel does the Maldives like no other.
Cocoa Island is a boutique option boasting 33 chic boat-shaped villas set over the sea. Spacious interiors feature smart dark wood set against crisp white linen and smart indulgent bathrooms. Complete with a spa and stand-out dining, this is a luxurious choice.
Raffles Meradhoo offers spectacular and spacious villas set over the turquoise water. Each has a private pool, while interiors are clean and contemporary with large bathtubs overlooking the water. Spread over two islands, this resort is a truly indulgent choice.
Joali offers private beach and water villas each with their own unique design, private pool, and loungers placed on decks that (in the overwater villas) you can just roll off into the sea. Pick this property for the chic design which mixes natural materials with futuristic design.

For romance

Milaidhoo Island has classic thatched villas with luxurious touches including private pools and enormous tubs. Dining is standout, particularly the unique “teppanyaki” table. The ideal couples paradise with numerous romantic experiences carefully planned out.
Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat is a totally serene escape set on a beautiful unspoilt beach. 30 thatched villas are decorated with natural materials and romantic beds are draped in thin muslin. Bespoke couples' experiences can be arranged - we recommend the sunset boat cruises!
Gili Lankanfushi has an excellent motto "no news, no shoes". This is a place to come and simply unwind. For couples' who rather a little action - they have that covered too from scuba diving to fishing or tennis. Villas have an open-air feel. A luxurious escape, perfect for a honeymoon.
Naladhu is romantic from the outset. Arrive at your villa via boat before unwinding in the bathtub overlooking the ocean (with plenty of room for two). With private boat tours and couples' massage, this is island bliss.

For adult-only

Anantara Veli is a grown up island resort. Overwater villas offer luxury and privacy. With an array of watersports, a superb spa, open air cinema, and romantic dining - this is a great choice for a break for two.
Baros Maldives is another luxurious adult-only stay. Romantic villas are constructed using local materials. The island is surrounded by beautiful reefs so this is a great choice for diving enthusiasts. Complete with a spa and private dining - this is a tranquil escape for couples.

For families

Finolhu is an action packed retreat well suited to families. Villas are luxurious, with open air bathrooms and spectacular sea views. The four restaurants and boundless activities on offer will keep everyone happy. Plus there are family pools, kids' indoor and outdoor play areas, a creche, and babysitting to ensure parents get all the help they need!
Four Seasons Kuda Huraa is a luxurious resort that has plenty to keep everyone entertained. Located a short boat ride from Male, this is a convenient place to get to. Bungalows come in family-sized varieties and each has a private pool. Complete with a Kids Club and endless activity options - this is a gorgeous spot for a family break.
Velaa Private Island is a very luxurious getaway with plenty of activities and service second-to-none. Complete with its own golf course, a Clarins Spa, gourmet dining, some of the best scuba diving in the Maldives and an extensive Kids Club - you'll wish for nothing here.
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is undeniably a luxury stay with each villa having a private butler, a spoiling spa using Natura Bissé products, and five-star cuisine. However, this romantic spot is also ideal for kids with familysized accommodation, and numerous activities which includes the Maldives first aqua park.
Cheval Blanc Randheli offers sophisticated luxury overlooking the ocean. Adults can unwind in the exclusive spa while children will be kept busy in the kids club or taking part in the many hotel activities. Perfect for all the family.

For the activities

Banyan Tree Maldives Vabbinfaru has all the romantic lures of other hotels in the Maldives including powder white sands, candlelit dining, and gorgeous secluded villas. However, it is the award-winning recreation team and the sports equipment that make this a stand-out stay.
Six Senses Laamu is a remote spot with beautiful thatched villas boasting sunken-glass tubs. The free icecream and the 'no shoes' policy immediately gives this a laidback vibe. Plus there are activities galore including yoga, an outdoor cinema, endless watersports, surfing, and sailing. Suitable for families or couples.

For a spa break

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island offers beautiful contemporary villas set over the water complete with large terraces and private hot tubs. With fabulous dining and plenty of activites this is a real luxury experience. Yet it is the two spas that are the real lure. An overwater spa boasts glass floored treatment rooms and the Spa Retreat on the mainland offers a holistic spa experience.

For foodies

The Nautilus is made up of just 26 villas offering luxury and intimacy on a remote island accessed by seaplane. Villas are vast and either come over water or on the beach. Dining is a real highlight (headed by arguably one of the best chefs in the Maldives), the spa is delectable, and for those travelling with children - there's a kids club too. Drop your bags and unwind.

For an all-inclusive stay

Lily Beach Resort & Spa is an idyllic five-star stay. Overwater villas are secluded and luxurious. There is a wide choice of restaurants, countless activities, a superb Kids Club, and an overwater spa - you'll wish for nothing at this all-inclusive stay.

Still not sure which to book?

Consider our Guru’s list of the best hotels in the Maldives.
Widen your search to include our pick of places to stay Check out our recommendations in Sri Lanka or Mauritius instead.
Browse through our collection of the best value hotels in the Maldives, the best boutique hotels in the Maldives or the best resorts in The Maldives.
Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.
- Soneva Jani Maldives 24 rooms from $2040
  
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  Honeymoons  -  Each villa comes with a private pool, plus stargazing with an astrologer and prosecco fuelled bluetooth silent cinema...Bliss!
  Total relaxation  -  'No shoes, no news' policy, a top notch spa, private villas and round the clock service - relaxation is certainly on the cards
  Spa  -  Soneva Spa offers a wide range of healing treatments, plus tailor made spa journeys and much more
  Diving  -  Take a PADI diving course at the hotels dive centre and explore the local reefs
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  Spectacular private villas (many come with rooftop water slides) on the island of Medhufaru. Every detail has been thought of from spa to dining, to activities and relaxation. Sustainably sourced interiors, organic local produce and faultless service - these guys do the Maldives like no other. See More
  
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- Milaidhoo Island Baa Atoll, Maldives 50 rooms from $1391
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Favours couples as there are endless romantic experiences offered such as couples' spa retreat and dining experiences
  Outstanding location  -  The resort is located in the Baa Atoll UNESCO biosphere reserve, close to Hanifaru Bay, 126km north west of Male
  Weddings  -  The resort offers various romantic settings and packages for weddings such as beach cermonies
  Spa  -  The over-water spa has four treatment suites. Treatments are focused on African rituals and local ingredients
  
  A luxury resort that offers 50 traditional beach pool and water pool villas with classic thatched roofs and complementing colour schemes. Dining is standout, particularly the unique “teppanyaki” table. The ideal couples paradise with numerous romantic experiences carefully planned out. See More
  
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- Anantara Veli Male, Maldives 67 rooms from $463
  
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  Romantic Break  -  A wildly romantic resort oozing tranquility and luxury from its private villas, sandy beaches and fine dining restaurants.
  Spa  -  Balance Wellness offers treatments and therapies to beautify and revitalise alongside its steam room, sauna & relaxation garden
  Romantic  -  Couples' spa treatments, open air cinema and private dining
  Sailing  -  Take a romantic cruise around the island at sunset.
  
  A blissful adults only island resort, with romantic seclusion in luxurious surroundings. A fantastic array of watersports for thrill seekers and an Anantara Garden Spa for those who like to take things easy. Romance, action, and maximum pampering. A chic slice of heaven. See More
  
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- Finolhu Kanufushi Island, Maldives 125 rooms from $560
  
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  Beach Life  -  You can't get much more beach chic than this - whether you chill out on the lounger or dive to coral reefs it's got you covered
  Families  -  Perfect for the whole gang with family pools, kids indoor and outdoor play areas, creche, babysitting and kids menu
  Romantic Break  -  With overwater villas, an incredible spa, romantic private dining and idyllic sandbanks and beach walks
  Snorkelling  -  The hotel offers free snorkelling trips to the nearby reef
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  A Robinson Crusoe style retreat in the stunning Baa Atoll. With elegant villas overlooking the waters, some with private pools and openair bathrooms. What makes this resort stand out from the crowd is their emphasis on fun which you will find at all the four restaurants. Oh and the private butlers! See More
  
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- Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat 20183 Theluveligaa, Maldives 30 rooms from $650
  
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  Weddings  -  The perfect destination wedding venue with the resort catering to all your needs such as beach cermonies and candle-lit dinners
  Total relaxation  -  The numerous treatments offered in the spa gives guests a chance to completely unwind and enjoy their holiday
  Romantic Break  -  Bespoke romantic trips and experiences are arranged by the resort such as sunset boat cruises
  Beach Life  -  The idyllic crystal blue water and white sands provide the ultimate beach life
  
  Tasteful, authentic unspoilt beach and sea villas displaying the true charm of the Maldives. The villas are decorated in a traditional Maldivian style incorporating locally handcrafted pieces with simple colour schemes. Perfect for couples who want to unplug from technology and totally relax. See More
  
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- Banyan Tree Maldives Vabbinfaru Maldives 48 rooms from $700
  
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  Beach Life  -  With turtle rescues, diving, snorkelling, sailing, walking and much much more you'll find plenty of things to fill your days.
  Honeymoons  -  Achingly romantic with private villas overlooking the crystal clear waters and candlelit dining under the stars.
  Cooking classes  -  Learn how to whip up a scrumptious Maldivian meal during your stay.
  Sailing  -  The hotel has its own yacht that can accommodate 12 people.
  Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection
  
  A hideaway resort in utter paradise with an array of temptations for guests. The 48 private villas have their own swimming pools, fantastic watersports including the use of a yacht, marine biology, PADI diving, and a world class spa - barefoot luxury, romance, and adrenalin rushes. See More
  
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- Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Maldives 151 rooms from $752
  
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  Spa breaks  -  Conrad Maldives offers not just one but two spoiling spas for a seriously indulgent break!
  Beach Life  -  Located on a picture perfect remote tropical island.
  Spa  -  The overwater spa boasts glass floored treatment rooms and the Spa Retreat on the mainland offers a holistic spa experience
  Diving  -  You're close to 42 dive sites and the surrounding coral reef provides fantastic diving opportunities.
  
  A luxury hotel on a quintessentially perfect white sand tropical island. Chic villas stand on stilts over glistening turquoise waters. Boasting private hot tubs, luxury bathrooms and enormous terraces this is a spot designed with romance in mind. The ideal getaway. See More
  
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- Four Seasons Kuda Huraa Maldives 96 rooms from $1100
  
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  Kids Club  -  Fully staffed kids club for all aged 4-12 with a wide range of both outdoor and indoor activities on offer
  Spa  -  The Island Spa Sanctuary offers a huge range of treatments and therapies for the ultimate in pampering
  Swimming Pool  -  Beach front infinity pool, plus adults only serenity pool, and children's pool
  Restaurant  -  Four restaurants to choose from including award winning Baraabaru
  Recommended by  -  CN Traveller
  
  Ultimate pampering a short boat ride from Male. Beautifully crafted bungalows and speciality suites offer top of the range accommodation all with private pool and plenty of family options. Superb dining including award winning Indian cuisine, plus spoiling spa, kids club and much more. Heaven! See More
  
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- Cocoa Island Maldives 33 rooms from $950
  
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  Eco break  -  Cocoa Island has a comprehensive eco-policy and takes great care of its pristine natural environment and house reef.
  Beach Life  -  White sands, blue waters and tropical fish swimming around the stilts of your private beach villa.
  Honeymoons  -  Honeymoon heaven - world class spa, phenomenal food, astonishing views and total tranquility.
  Sailing  -  For those with sailing experience the hotel catamaran is lent out for dolphin watching and island hopping excursions.
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape, Tablet, Kiwi Collection
  
  Relax in privacy at this supreme getaway island - stretch out in the stilted yoga pavilion, unwind in the world class spa, feast on nature's larder in the fantastic restaurant, and dream about the next day's snorkelling in the lofty-chic stilted villas. See More
  
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- Baros Maldives Maldives 75 rooms from $926
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Baros Maldives is made for romance: adults only, private dinners, luxurious accommodation and white sand beaches.
  Total relaxation  -  A little slice of tropical paradise perfect for completely unwinding.
  Diving  -  Find thirty world class dive spots within 50 minutes by boat.
  Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pools
  Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels
  
  A luxury resort set on a picture perfect tropical island surrounded by beautiful reefs. Individual villas are light and airy, built with local materials and wonderfully luxurious. The best stand on stilts amidst the crystal clear seas. Ideal for both diving enthusiasts or those looking to unwind. See More
  
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- Raffles Meradhoo Maldives 38 rooms from $1115
  
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  Romantic Break  -  The resort is perfect for couples and offers romantic dinners on the beach aswell as special trips to deserted islands
  Weddings  -  Plan the perfect wedding with the resorts packages that include photography and an 'under the stars' dinner
  Restaurant  -  3 restaurants includes Maldivian, Middle Eastern, Chinese and British options
  Swimming Pool  -  An infinity pool and an outdoor pool are avaliable to all guests
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  A stunning resort stretched over two islands in secluded Gaafu Alifu Atoll. Luxurious overwater or island villas feature private pools and vast indulgent bathrooms. Interiors have a classic-modern twist with a running nautical theme reflecting the ocean. A paradise-island retreat ideal for couples. See More
  
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- Naladhu P.O. Box 2014, Maldives 20 rooms from $1201
  
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  Beach Life  -  Make the most of this idyllic island life; palm trees, white sands, turquoise seas and the blissful Anantara Spa.
  Romantic Break  -  Arrive at your private beach house by boat, enjoy couples dining on the beach and romantic outdoor baths.
  Sailing  -  Take a romantic sunset cruise around the island, the perfect end to your evening.
  Surfing  -  Great surfing particularly in the months between April and October.
  Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection, Small Luxury Hotels, Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  A Maldivian dream brought to life. Peace, tranquility, and privacy in either an ocean or beach house with private pools. A romantic seclusion from which to indulge in the fantastic watersports and beach life, and unwind later in the luxury spa. Complete paradise. See More
  
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- Velaa Private Island Maldives 43 rooms from $1281
  
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  Romantic Break  -  The resort offers exclusive romantic residences which can only be reached by boat, allowing even more privacy and exclusivity
  Groups  -  Tailormade celebrations can be arranged and events with maximum capacity on the island of 130 pax
  Active Holiday  -  From golf, squash, diving and climbing the range of activies makes sure that no one goes bored
  Beach Life  -  The white sands and crystal blue Indian ocean are just perfect
  
  Gorgeous villas located on the remote private island of Veela. Guests can expect ultimate privacy and to be treated like royalty. Velaa plays host to the best scuba diving and snorkelling spots in the Maldives. Food is incredible from gourmet menus to unpretentious dishes. The definition of luxe. See More
  
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- Cheval Blanc Randheli 11111 Manadhoo, Maldives 46 rooms from $1739
  
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  Families  -  Snorkel the crystal blue playground that surrounds the resort with your family and there are great kids and teen clubs
  Groups  -  Hire out the entire resort for your entire family or friends and enjoy the exclusivity and special occasion
  Spa breaks  -  The Guerlain Spa is exclusive to the Maldives providing guests with moments of serenity and ultimate peace
  Romantic Break  -  Various romantic experiences are avaliable to couples such as private beach dining
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  With water, island and beach garden villas, the resort offers countless chances for total relaxation. Each villa has a sleek pool, and huge daybeds, with a great amount of attention to detail. Relax in the ultra-exclusive Guerlain Spa for a completely rejuvenating stay. A firm family favourite. See More
  
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- Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa Maldives 103 rooms from $525
  
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  Families  -  Superb family friendly accommodation and a wide range of activities for all ages make this ideal for a family holiday in the sun
  Beach Life  -  White sands, crystal clear waters and a watersports centre offering water skiing, wake boarding, jet skiing and diving.
  Romantic Break  -  Secluded and spacious Villas boasting private pools or Jacuzzi's, with romantic couples dining under a canopy of stars.
  Diving  -  Meridis is a PADI 5* Gold Dive Resort licensed centre, so get out there and explore the fish filled waters!
  Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection
  
  A luxury boutique resort situated on a privately owned virgin island. Exclusive villas come with personal butlers and some with private pools. An extensive spa uses Natura Bissé products. Five star cuisine served in a truly romantic setting. Plenty of activities on offer. Complete bliss. See More
  
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- The Nautilus Maldives 26 rooms from $3159
  
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  Beach Life  -  The resort is completely surrounded by crystal white sands giving guests the opportunity for a real beach lifestyle
  Total relaxation  -  The numerous amounts of treatments offered in the spa gives guests opportunities to completely unwind
  Families  -  A host of experiences and activites to share together with your family from yoga to sailing
  Weddings  -  What better place for guests to renew their vows with their loved ones
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  The resort has relaxed beachside and overwater houses. Rooms have a bohemian design with natural furnishings and a walk-in rain shower. The food is superb and overseen by one of brightest chef's in the Indian Ocean. This resort epitomises the definition of barefoot luxury. Perfect for all the family See More
  
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- Lily Beach Resort and Spa Maldives 125 rooms from $785
  
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  Honeymoons  -  Exclusive, private and wildly romantic location for honeymooners - luxurious beach villas and couples' dining on the beach.
  Spa breaks  -  Pamper yourself at the glorious semi-outdoor spa that benefits from the relaxing sounds of the lapping waves.
  Families  -  With family beach villas close to all the resort facilities and superb kids club, all ages will be happy.
  All inclusive  -  The price quoted is for an all inclusive package (including fine dining, premium alcohols, activities and excursions)
  
  A stunning 5 star resort on a pristine island. Villas and suites are the height of luxury and offer wonderful sea views. A kids club will keep little ones entertained whilst an over-water spa is total bliss. A wide array of restaurants assures evening variety. A perfect all inclusive escape. See More
  
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- Joali 20066 Raa Atoll, Maldives 73 rooms from $1894
  
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  Total relaxation  -  Set on a private island - spend days unwinding in your own private pool or indulging in a spa treatment
  Eco break  -  Joali has encorpated the existing trees into the architecture and landscape
  Families  -  Fun for all the family from watersports to live music
  Restaurant  -  Four Restaurants specialising in cuisines from South-East Asia, China, the Mediterranean and the Levant
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  Private beach and water villas each with their own pool. Each villa is designed to illustrate its own individual story. A host of activities are offered from snorkelling with manta rays, an immersive art tour to learning Maldivian delicacies. A unique luxury hideaway. See More
  
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- Gili Lankanfushi North Malé Atoll, Maldives 45 rooms from $1288
  
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  Honeymoons  -  The Maldives has long been known as a honeymoon destination and this utterly spoiling spot perfectly fits the bill.
  Total relaxation  -  With the moto being 'no news, no shoes' you'll be sure of a relaxing stay.
  Spa  -  Meera Spa boasts 6 overwater treatment rooms, an Ayurvedic Treatment Champa and much more!
  Cooking classes  -  Learn the secrets of Maldivian cuisine, or how to perfect your sushi or curries!
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  If you were to conjure up the perfect tropical island escape, this would be it. Secluded villas standing on stilts above crystal clear waters, swaying palms and the whitest of white sands. Add into that mix fabulous food, a spoiling spa, superb diving and friendly yet efficient service. Magic. See More
  
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- Six Senses Laamu 20077 Laamu, Maldives 97 rooms from $978
  
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  Families  -  Various facilities and activites to cater for a range of ages from a great kids club to kayaking
  Honeymoons  -  A real hot honeymoon destination spot with special tailor-made experiences such as fine dining
  Eco break  -  The resort prides itself on the fact that it is sustainable
  Surfing  -  During the months of May to September there are daily trips to the YinYang Surf break the most famous in the Maldives
  
  Remote, luxury resort with a sustainable yet chic style. Thatched villas with sunken glass bathtubs. The no-shoes policy is surprisingly refreshing. The seafood is outstanding and who can say no to free ice-cream? An island castaway-type holiday and without a doubt worth the effort of getting there. See More
  
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