Soneva Gili by Six Senses

All the accommodation is in stunning villas perched on stilts over the aquamarine waters of the lagoon and reached via wooden walkways. For the ultimate in privacy, there are seven ‘Crusoe Residences’ that are like private islands and only accessible by boat. All the villas are spacious, crafted in a traditional style and feature rooftop sundecks with panoramic views, comfortable daybeds to laze away the days, and personal entertainment centres.

Guests come ashore to enjoy a range of excellent facilities and the resort’s renowned food and wine.

The award-winning Six Senses Spa offers numerous treatments, with glass floor-panels beneath the massage tables that allow you to watch the fish swimming by. Maldivean, Balinese, Thai and Ayurvedic therapies are all available, and the spa also features a steam room, sauna and gym.

The Maldives is one of the world’s finest destinations for snorkelling and diving, and Soneva Gili has its own fully-equipped PADI diving school staffed by professional instructors. A variety of other watersports are on offer, such as windsurfing and sailing, and there are tennis courts and a large freshwater swimming pool. Beyond the island, deep-sea fishing and excursions to nearby atolls are available.

In the evenings, guests can choose between eating at the restaurant or dining on the resort’s boat as it cruises in the lagoon under the stars. Alternatively, meals can be delivered direct to your villa.