One & Only - Reethi Rah, North Male Atoll The Maldives, Central Islands

Reethi Rah is the last word in decadent Maldivian luxury. The shell of a former resort island was taken over by The One & Only group last year and the island was given a grand makeover reclaiming acres of land from the sea, the best staff that money could find and some superb, unobtrusive design.

The result is a very high level resort island indeed. Further away than most, but still within reach by speedboat, there is masses of space here and a therefore privacy in abundance.

Aside from perhaps, Soneva Fushi, there is no other luxury resort in the Maldives that affords its guests quite so much space, freedom and privacy as there is at Reethi Rah. This is a remarkable achievement and is testament to the strength of the One & Only determination to reach for the top. Getting around is therefore by bicycle or golf buggy you really cannot get by without calling for one, but waits of longer than 10 minutes are fairly rare.

As one might expect, each and every aspect of Reethi Rah has been aligned to the very top levels of resort style, comfort and design. The rooms are quite spectacular, whether you are over water or have a beach villa during you stay. There is not much to choose between the two categories, or you could even combine the two.

A stand out feature is the level of the facilities for families with young children. The children are superbly catered for making this without question, the best luxury resort for those with children. The childrens club is in a league of its own; with a range of activities and facilities to entertain and amuse the small children and impress even scornful teenagers. The childrens spa is particularly popular Im told… Baby sitters are available 24 hours a day and aside from the kids club, there is also a 'teens club' with certified supervisors organising activities. For those that want to avoid children at all possible costs, this is may not be the resort for you but bear in mind that the sheer size of the island is a pretty good guarantee of privacy and quiet if you want it.

Dining options are extensive of course the main restaurant is well designed with several contrasting areas providing guests with a choice of ambiance at each meal. Tapasake is Japanese orientated and superb in a gorgeous over-water setting. Most intriguingly Fanditha is laid out on the beach and middle eastern in feel and food choice. A great place for a long, seductive evening.

The Spa is of course superb probably the largest and most comprehensive in the Maldives. Keen spa people are advised to contact the resort in advance through us and arrange for a package that suits them. Like everything else on this island, the attention to details and level of quality is truly magnificent.

Though much of the island is reclaimed land, the landscaping is such that this is disguised and the surroundings are beautiful and as you would wish your desert island to look like. The off-shore snorkeling is decent, though unspectacular and you may need too pay for a boat trip. There is superb diving nearby of course.

Please bear in mind that your extras bill is likely to mount at a resort of this nature. Do not mortgage the house just to get here! Come prepared to spend money, relax and enjoy the sumptuous surrounding and you will enjoy have the time of your life.