Gili Lankanfushi, North Male Atoll

Guests come to Gili Lankanfushi for the ultimate in luxury escapism. This 5-star resort is on the private tropical island of Lankanfushi in the Malé Atoll. Set in the heart of the Indian Ocean, this small island makes full use of the resource most readily available: water! It surrounds you wherever you look!

The 45 water bungalows are made of natural materials, local thatch and wood. Inside, they are magnificent... the sumptuous bedroom, living room and bathroom all offer panoramic views out across the water. This is supplemented with a sun deck with direct sea access, as well as a roof terrace with a day bed offering a place to sleep out under the stars. Spa villas and the three-bedroom Private Reserve all have in-villa spa and gym facilities. Residence bungalows are enclosed by large glass doors, offering safety for guests with children, as well as the added extra of AC.  All rooms come equipped with bicycles, although the island is not large, these are a nice touch, and they help maintain the languid island pace.

For an authentic desert island experience, the Crusoe Residences are stand-alone villas, reached only by boat, offering an extra level of privacy to guests. The ultimate luxury hideaway, however, is the Private Reserve, the largest over-water villa in the world, with three bedrooms, its gym and spa, as well as extensive decking and lounge areas.

A unique feature of all the islands bungalows are the ‘natural’ bathrooms, where the shower is situated across a wooden base way above the sea, providing a peaceful effect while showering, with the fish swimming below. Steps also lead down into the sea for a personal sea bath, allowing guests a naked dip in privacy!

Gili Lankanfushi provides barefoot luxury par excellence. You can kick off your shoes when you arrive at the jetty and leave them with your very own ‘Mr or Mrs Friday’, who will act as a personal butler throughout your stay. The service is friendly and efficient but also relaxed, there are no check-in formalities, and you can eat when you like. There is no need to dress up. You can pad around in shorts or a sarong and never feel anything less than comfortable.

In short Gili Lankanfushi has been magnificently conceived and stands up among the finest places in the world to spend time with your loved one.