For unparalleled beach holiday luxury there is little that can match the secluded resorts available in the Maldives. Below we give you 3 of our top picks for those looking to unwind on some of the most stunning islands in the world.
1. Constance Halaveli Resort, North Ari Atoll
Sparkling with a thoroughly-deserved 6* reputation, the Constance Halaveli Resort is tucked away in its own private hideaway, perfect for a romantic getaway or a relaxing family holiday. Bobbing in the centre of the Maldives, you may be surprised to feel so hidden from the wider world. The 86 villas of the Constance Halaveli Resort are cleverly dotted along the stretch of white sand, on stilts above the water, and scattered amongst the palm trees and tropical gardens, making this resort seem much smaller than it really is.
The luxurious, all-villa accommodation is located on the white powder beach or floating over the water on stilts and every choice has a private pool. The double storey villas or the glamorous Presidential Beach Villa are perfect for families or groups.
The natural surroundings of the resort are accented by contemporary but low-key architecture and design, and you can enjoy the relaxed elegance of barefoot dining at the beach grill. Treat yourself at the expansive spa complex with treatment pavilion on stilts over the Indian Ocean
2. Constance Moofushi Resort, South Ari Atoll
Casual elegance is what Constance Moofushi Resort is all about. Deliberately veering away from what’s fashionable in favour of a more timeless, natural luxury, the resulting atmosphere here is peaceful and relaxed: wander around shoeless between your villa and the stunning beach and surroundings, or relax on your private hammock.
This relatively new resort – opened in November 2010 – sits on a broad, white sand beach and gazes out over a shallow, turquoise lagoon.
There are plenty of activities on offer here, including scuba diving in the crystal clear waters of the South Ari Atoll – easily the best place to dive in the Maldives and ranking among the best in the world. Snorkelling trips take guests out to a nearby reef where you’ll spot turtles, fish and perhaps even some rays.
3. Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa
Packed with features, activities, fabulous dining and luxuriously-appointed villas, the Villingili Resort & Spa is all about seclusion and privacy. The resort is located on a palm-forested island, surrounded by coral reef and 2 kilometres of white sand beach with 12 hectares of grounds.
Complete privacy is the key to your holiday here – each villa feels completely secluded and so spacious that you’ll never want to leave. Many of the resort’s villas are located on stilts over the water and some have their own tropical gardens. Others are modern-style tree houses on 3-metre high stilts! For all-out luxury, guests can opt for the even more extravagant Villa Muthee or Villa Laalu, both of which are big on space and boast many extra features, such as private spa pavilion, original artworks, high chambered ceilings and large private pools.
