Maldives
All images by Gili Lankanfushi
Some places make very lasting impressions. Gili Lankanfushi, my favourite resort in the Maldives, is such a place. Its long jetties stretch over the lagoon passages to the endless beauty of the ocean blue. All the worries and the burdens of modern life slipped off my shoulders and I regained some of the innocence of Eden. I was heartbroken when I heard that there had been a fire and Gili Lankanfushi had closed. Thinking myself destined to only revisit the place in dreams and memories, I felt a longing, as if Paradise had indeed been lost. Fortunately, Gili is coming back better than ever, and by late 2019, it will reopen to surely reclaim its crown among the best resort in the Maldives.
OCEAN CARESS
Gili Lankanfushi is unique in the Maldives because all of its villas are overwater. They offer a mix of intimacy and endless possibility, as they are all one dive away from the turquoise waters of the lagoon or the ocean. But more than just a beautiful place to stay, the resort embodies values of sustainability and barefoot luxury: absolute comfort in the midst of Nature.
EAVES OF PARADISE
The concept of Castaway Chic is perfected at Gili Lankanfushi, playfully referencing Defoe’s novel. Take Mr Friday, your butler, who is always at the ready to arrange the day’s activities, or to organise a romantic dinner by the beach. The Crusoe Residences —cut off from the island and jetties— are a short boat ride away from the common areas, yet it feels like they rest on another world or another time. As the gentle breeze rocks you on your hammock in the sea, you experience a rare sort of pleasure: joy for joy’s sake.
ADVENTURE IN THE SEA
When you emerge from the seclusion of your villa, you find yourself surrounded by the endless possibilities of adventure. Head to the surf shack and gear up to carve the waves, or paddleboard in the lagoon under perfect blue skies. Join the resident marine biologist and uncover the secrets of the ocean. Dive into the sapphire depths for some of the World’s best scuba and snorkeling. If you want to take a break from the water, enjoy the cinema under the stars, or take a lesson with a pro tennis player to refine your serve.
BEST RESORTS IN MALDIVES
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Gili Lankanfushi: Andrea's Favourite
No News No Shoes – the ultimate Castaway Chic -
Six Senses: A Family Haven
Ancient civilisations, thousands of pyramids, and no tourist in sight. I was entranced by the mystique of the desert and the richness of Sudan. -
Joali: Chic & Romance
What the Maldives are known for, taken to the next level. -
Cheval Blanc: Best Rooms & Design
Find your sanctuary, recharge, invent, and take the world head on. -
Soneva Fushi: Best Snorkelling & Diving
Venture to the blue depths and discover marine worlds of life, colour and wonder. -
COMO Maalifushi: Best Dining
World-class culinary experiences await by the shores of Paradise.
